Last week I performed in an MA recital with Laurence (violinist) and Roger (cellist). It was a contemporary programme, a bit different for me, finishing with Piazolla’s Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas (Four Seasons) for piano trio. The recital went well and it’s been great fun working with Laurence and Roger throughout the course of this year.
My research is progressing, it’s nearly the end of the academic year so my summer schedule is now in place. I’ll visit family and friends at different points but I’m looking forward to having three to four months primarily on my research. I am at the point now where my argument is coming together and I am embarking on two chapters. One is the full literature review that also outlines my methodology and layout of thesis, and the second will discuss Schubert and improvisation. My summer will also include various research trips to read primary sources, play historical piano and Vienna in September too. I’ll keep you posted!
Lecturing has now concluded at Liverpool Hope University. My students are currently sitting their exams and have recently had feedback on portfolio work. I enjoyed lecturing and feel my skills in this area are continuously developing as my experience grows – I’m looking forward to the challenges of next year.
Only a month left at the old Birmingham Conservatoire building. I’ve known the present Conservatoire since I was thirteen years old, whilst it’s exciting to move into a brand new purpose built building there is sadness at the demolition of the old. Our memories will certainly live on, and music never dies after all.
I hope you’re all well and enjoyed the sunny May bank holiday weekend — take care and see you soon.