March 2007

Some News Is Good News

March 20, 2007 20:41

It was a routine Spring Break day... until the mail came.

On February 7th at 10:00 pm, I recorded the first movement of the Bruch for a camp audition. The next day, I stayed home from school to fill out the application and wait for my teacher to send her letter of recommendation. When all the required materials were compiled, my mom and I went and Fed-Exed the tape, application, and recommendation letter to the Kansas Arts Commission because the deadline was the 9th. I had nothing to lose. It didn't cost anything to send the tape, but the odds were against me. Only one person from each state would be chosen, except in Kansas. In Kansas, there were six people chosen because that's where the orchestra's 2007 residency was.

Today, much to my surprise, the letter came. I didn't think I would make it because college students could also audition and someone who listened to tapes said that several great wind players auditioned. I unfolded the paper, and, with a deep breath, read the words: Dear Sydney, Congratulations! You have been selected to participate in the Kennedy Center/National Symphony Orchestra National Trustees' Summer Music Institute!

I can't believe it! I'll be in Washington D.C. for a month and I'll get to perform in the Kennedy Center! However, my favorite line was this one: The fellowship will provide you the following benefits on the full scholarship during the Kennedy Center/NSO Summer Music Institute: lessons with NSO musicians, master classes, seminars, chamber orchestra, housing, plane tickets, and meals.

Looks like it's going to be a great summer!

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