Recently I've started thinking deeper about what it would feel like if I made music a bigger part of my life.
When I asked myself the question, "How much more do I invest into my music?" My answer tonight is: I double down.
If I had nothing to lose and can only succeed, I would immerse myself deeper into the sounds of the fiddle and the hardingfele. I would learn music theory and get to know the shapes of sounds on the page as well as in the air and hand.
To help me accomplish my dreams, I've joined a supportive community called the Fearless Artist Fast Forward co-founded by musicians Michelle Lynne and Deanna Petre.
This program serves as profession development for musicians. We share with each other our tasks, goals, aspirations, as well as wins and setbacks. We get on Zoom for working sessions - often silently, but always knowing that others are working towards their goals at the same time, making it less lonely and more of a team sport.
While the changes within me are still ongoing in terms of goals and development, some outwardly visible signs of progress are emerging.
I've since joined two separate fiddle groups - one is a Scandinavian fiddle group, working towards our Midsummer festivities celebration in late June. The other is a a Scottish fiddle orchestra and this group plays cohesively in the Scottish traditional genre.
I have also signed up to take the RCM Grade 5 music theory exam sometime this year.
So lots of moving pieces, lots of music, lots of learning coming!