Elbow Update

My elbows have been feeling much better! In fact, I've even gotten back into practicing the "Islamey" (one of the most challenging pieces in the piano repertoire, and known for the fact that it was too difficult for even the composer to play).

Speaking of difficult, I'm preparing for a concert in October with some pretty fierce pieces. I'm planning on including Schubert's Wanderer Fantasy, Balakirev's Islamey, the Mozart C minor Fantasy, and the Faure 6th Impromptu, along with some other pieces. I love challenging myself, although it can be scary to play such difficult pieces live! One of the best compliments I sometimes hear is when people describe my playing as fearless. As a performer, I have to take chances. I have to let the audience know I'm giving my absolute all. As one of my former teachers used to say right before I walked on stage," Take no prisoners!"

The past few months have been trying, but it looks like it's working out. I've made some adjustments, such as trying to practice in no more than 30 minute increments, sitting a little higher on the bench, sleeping in arm braces, rarely holding a cell phone to my ear, etc. But thankfully, my elbows are back in performance shape and I'm feeling good. More updates to come!