Our orchestra’s programme for next year has been finalised as Brahms’ Symphony No. 1. It was the first piece I ever played with the orchestra, and I made a mistake,
leading someone to tell me, ‘You’re ten years too early to be playing Brahms.’
The sound of the Renaissance lute is beautiful.
It’s utterly enchanting to play.
Although the sound is soft, its beautiful tone enriches the player’s heart.
I love playing the Renaissance lute ❤️
The ‘Allegro molto vivace’ section of Sarasate’s ‘Zigeunerweisen’ is difficult. The dizzying alternation between pizzicato and arco is a real challenge.
I’ve been asked to play Brahms’ Hungarian Dance No. 1. We’re having a rehearsal in two weeks’ time. It might be a bit tricky. I had a go at reading through the score in a café.
It was my first get-together with my music friends in quite a while.
With such enjoyable conversation and delicious food, the time flew by in the blink of an eye.
Whilst my cello was away for maintenance, I took out my Renaissance lute and played it for the first time in ages.
I played pieces such as ‘Spagnoletta’.
The sound was as beautiful and gentle as ever, and my heart was filled with all sorts of emotions.
I saw a shop on the high street with a sign saying ‘Nai mono ha nai’. Does that mean ‘We have everything’ or ‘There’s nothing we don’t stock’? Japanese is tricky. 😅
The orchestra rehearsal has finished. The extra musicians who are helping us have started joining in too.
The maestro praised me, saying I was doing well on the cello. I’m delighted.
Tonight was the neighbourhood association’s summer festival. We had a lively and enjoyable time, with performances by a band made up of local volunteers, hip-hop dancing by the children, hula dancing by the ladies, and a Bon dance where everyone joined in. →