So far in Feb...

It's been a little while since I talked about what was going on here in Manchester, so I thought I would give you all an update. First, I am excited to be coming back to the US (even if it's only for 4 days) and I wish it for a bit longer.

Things here at the RNCM have been hectic to say the least. Right now the undergraduate students are preparing for their technical exams, meaning that they have to play scales of varying forms and also some etudes. I was asked this past week to sub last minute in a brass quintet for the Philip Jones Brass Competition at the RNCM - we played on about 45 minutes of rehearsal, and made it into the finals, which are tomorrow. Needless to say we felt underprepared, well - at least I felt that way - so we got a bit of rehearsal time this afternoon.

I am going back to the US on th 15th, and heading down to Phoenix with the parents and Mary. Gonna look at some properties down there and just enjoy ourselves... time with Mom, Dad, and Mary - it's gonna be nice.

When I get back from the US, I am going to Spain for 5 days for the Spanish BrasSurround Festival. It's a big brass festival put on by the Spanish Brass, which is one of the best brass groups in the world. Here is a link. Another euphonium player in the studio here, Phillip Schwartz, is going down there with me - and my teacher, Steven Mead, is a featured teacher/soloist. Fun, sun, relaxation, and the euphonium... sounds like heaven. ;)

Anyway, it's been a busy couple of weeks, and I can't wait to come back home for a bit. I look at the last few months and it has really flown by - but there is so much more to come. Check back often for more updates - see you soon!