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Ah, Music

Here are photos from Rose's piano recital on Sunday (taken after the performance because I didn't want to disturb her) and Elijah's orchestra concert last night, where we had front row seats right in front of the poor kid. My mom and I were clicking away, hoping he wasn't paying any attention and was instead thinking of the music and looking at the Conductor, Mrs. Stockinger...

They both did very well. Rose's teacher, at the end of the recital, thanked all of the students and said "some of those kids I didn't know could play their pieces so well". We know she meant Rose, for one! She did a fabulous job on her piece, The Silly Sandpiper. I think after hearing the older kids play so well, and seeing all the trophies and awards given out, she may just be ready to go for another year of piano lessons. She's motivated by such things! And, she has a real natural playing ability so we'd love to see her continue.


Elijah's orchestra also sounded great. We wish he was motivated by how beautifully the 6th grade Orchestra played, to continue next year, but it sounds like he's ready to try something else. Sax? Guitar? Who knows. But he also has a very natural musical ear and ability so we expect him to continue something instrumental.


Which reminds me of the Bluegrass Festival this August. We'll be going for the third year in a row. As I tell people all the time, it's the most fun I have all year! Seriously, for some reason I am able to completely relax at this Festival held just outside of our town in Richmond, Minnesota--and I don't relax easily these days. I think it's the combination of a beautiful camp/park setting, bluegrass music which I adore, and wholesome family activities that keep the kids going non-stop all weekend.


Plus, Elijah in particular LOVES the music. And I love to see him getting into it! This year we're all going to be sure to bring some instruments, as along with the concerts on the Main Stage, the activities in the Family Area, the dances in the Tent Stage, and all that, there are small groups of people just jammin' on their instruments all over the place. It's a camping, music-making, foot-stompin', relaxing-in-your-lawn-chair festival all weekend! Do check out the link above and join us this August if you can. We already have our tickets...


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