Intern!

Every year I offer the music students at Roberts an opportunity to perform and conduct at the church. I remember how I took my first position conducting a choir for pay and hadn't really had any serious experience. That poor choir - they had to put up with my struggles to figure out how to wave my arms about in a coherent way.

This year I am delighted that one of the student's has taken me up on the offer. I wish of course that I could offer him a small stipend, but I can offer him the experience and he is eager to learn to wave his arms about. He is being coached by the conducting professor at Roberts, and will conduct 1 piece each month for starters, leaving me more time to prepare music for the recital. At least that's the plan.

He does quite well, really. He has a good ear and once he gets some podium time, he will be an excellent conductor. I am honored that he is willing to come and work with us. I will try not to work him to death, and he has indicated that he really does not have the time to sing in our choir for the weeks he is not conducting. I get that - student life can be very demanding.

And I am proud of the choir who treats him with respect while not letting him get away with being unclear in his cues and gestures. I would have liked to have had such a good group to cut my teeth on. I am fortunate to have them now! Sometimes life is just good good good.