In my life, I have been fortunate to ride on the backs of mentors who had incredible vision and admirable work ethic. Because of them, rarely have I felt the need to create my own musical path or seek opportunities to perform. Where I have lacked vision and direction at times, opportunities have come knocking…to music-direct my first mainstage theater production in the 90s; to take part in several world premieres; to perform in the world-class Benaroya Hall…
I met my husband in 2004 playing volleyball with our singles’ group from church. When we began dating we were both tired of the dating “game” and dove straight into sharing our visions for our futures. My husband is an entrepreneur and had all kinds of ideas for inventions and businesses. I had one idea: become a stay-at-home mom and do music. With God’s direction and blessing, we married and set out to make our dreams come true.
I have been inspired big-time by my husband. He did not have opportunities “come to him” as I did; instead, he has always set out to create his own opportunities. (As I’ve witnessed this over the years of our marriage, I have come to realize that all of my musical mentors did the same thing!) His vision and discipline in the business sector have taught me a lot about accomplishing big dreams. When he asked my dad for permission for my hand, my dad told him to not let me “let go” of my music, and he has taken that seriously. Because of him, I began pursuing a choral accompanying position…and ended up playing for a variety of choirs in the Seattle area. Because of him, I have a dedicated “piano room” in my home where I can teach, practice, and rehearse with other musicians. Because of him, we have hosted house concerts for over ten years, where all kinds of musician friends have come and filled our house with music.
Among my creative projects are two CDs of solo piano music, one that was spear-headed by friends and the other entirely recorded and produced by myself – in my living room; a monthly e-mail newsletter that highlights what I and other pianists are doing in the world of piano – both big and small; a piano teaching studio made up of homeschool students; and various collaborative projects with singers, choirs, and my girls’ school. This blog is my latest project, an attempt to share the many resources I have collected (from others) and created (on my own) with other musicians. Music is meant to be shared, and I hope you find many, many ideas and much inspiration here for your own creative journey in music!