getting back to things

my job is getting in the way of my personal life. november and december are all about concerts, holiday programs, after school meetings, grading projects and writing progress reports. after coping with a few colds and a late night emergency room visit, i might just make it to the holiday break.

i have also spent a lot of time my ap theory class back on track. the students work very hard, but stumbled on 4-part chorale writing. once they started using notation programs (finale, cakewalk...) they were able to hear their homework and many errors dissapeared (missing notes, bad counterpoint). its another example how technology makes teaching easier.

one of the good things about being this busy is that i'm able to narrow my focus on composing. the distractions are easier to keep at bay. i don't think its the most healthy thing mentally and physically, but i have been able to plot out a few new pieces. rehearsals for the pbe are starting tomorrow and we will be recording our new cd over the holiday break.