If I was in the US...

If I was back in the US, I would have either graduated from college - or would be in my last week of finals. Instead of that, I am in the UK and still have a month of school. I thought going to school later in September was pretty cool... in September. I am paying for it now. Oh well.

Last week I got to see my good friend Tormod Flaten. He was in town playing at Chetham's School of Music for their spotlight on Norway concert series. The entire concert was focused on Norwegian music, and Tormod for being one of the best Norwegian-euphonium soloists out there. If anyone is looking for some great music, check out Tormod's website and buy his disc. His first CD, Flight, is available online for purchase from iTunes. Check it out - you won't be disappointed.

I am getting ready for my recital over the next 3 weeks. It seems like a ways off, but I know it'll be May 31 before I know it - and my recital will be 24 hrs. away. Things are in pretty good shape, but I need to get one of the pieces in a little bit better shape before I subject the public to it. I must say that I have missed performing this year a lot. Over my master's degree at Kansas, I had a lot of opportunities to perform on a regular basis - and other than Besses' I haven't really gotten that opportunity this year. I have gotten many other opportunities this year, so not too much to complain about.

I apologize for the lack of pictures over the last few posts, but every time I go somewhere I seem to forget my camera. Before I leave this island I am traveling to Scotland and France - so more pictures, I PROMISE!

Also for those that know her - Mary is graduating from the University of Kansas with her undergraduate in bassoon performance on Sunday. She is finishing up her final exams this week, and will get her degree this weekend. I couldn't be more proud of her and all of her accomplishments and hard work. I love you!

I hope that everyone is enjoying the warm weather that you all are having in the US. Once again, it's raining here... big surprise. After awhile, you just get used to not being dry. More to come later!