Kind of continuing on with the subject of my last post, I thought I would mention something about my current position as choir pianist. I have had this calling before, and have even accompanied this chorister many times before. It's kind of nice because I have accompanied him so often that I am beginning to understand the way he leads and I can sometimes anticipate how he will lead a particular song. My biggest problem is that he is a better musician than me.
This man is VERY talented. He is one of the best pianists that I know. He was a math major, and I think music and math are tightly linked, so that may be why he has such a talent for music. But he isn't just talented in playing the piano, he is also very talented in writing music. This is where the problem arises. ;)
Some years ago he completed an Easter Cantata and tried to get it published. I'm not sure why it wasn't published, maybe there just isn't much of a market for that anymore. But the songs are incredibly beautiful and touching. This year for Easter, we will be singing many of the songs from his Cantata. My problem comes with the finale. It is very difficult to play. The other night he wanted to play it through for the choir so they could get an idea for what he intended. He played it about 3 times as fast as I play it. On the phone later he told me that we won't sing it that fast, but I'm sure we will be singing it faster than I have been playing it. I really have my work cut out for me to be able to accompany this song. I just have to pray that God will give me help beyond my own natural talent! :)
5 comments:
R's music is one of the things we miss about California! Wish we could hear the cantata. I'm sure it will turn out beautifully.
I play a few instruments and have always played and written music but I didn't shine at maths at school. Funnily enough though I have taught myself a lot of maths since though.
As for your problem - remember that even with music your level of performance will come from 90% perspiration and 10% inspiration. great musicians practice - often and frequently. Set yourself a practice schedule starting now and I bet you will surprise yourself.
Good luck! One of these days I'm going to learn to play the piano. Maybe that's why I'm not great at math? ;) (I'm good with practical math, just not all the other stuff.)
I agree with Bunc's comment that you need practice practice practice, but another thing to remember, is when you start to perform it, try to block out everything but the choir and the director. Tell your mind not to worry about whether you will make a mistake and just concentrate on the music. It's amazing that it helps, IF you can do it. I'm really missing my piano, even though I brought my keyboard, it's just not the same. I wonder how much it costs to rent one?
I know you can do it. You can do anything you set your mind to. You're amazing.
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