Nosferatu and Light (or lack thereof)
I am reading Dracula for the first time. It seemed appropriate to start a classic horror novel in October. Even more so because on October 18th and 19th I played …
Attempts at a Sustainable Schedule
I was busy sewing away on my Halloween costume a few weeks ago. Costuming is one of my favorite hobbies. But some tasks, like gathering 9 feet of fabric into …
Attend Concerts, Earn Free Lessons
Introducing the “Attend Concerts, Earn Free Lessons” program!
Updated September 2019
Attending harp concerts and events is an important part of developing as a harpist. For every three harp events/concerts my …
What Does a Freelance Harpist Do All Day? Part 2
The other day started out with a recording session from 9am-1pm. It’s for an upcoming album with my early music ensemble, the Ravenscroft Musicke Guild. Crafting e-mails for the upcoming …
Taxes for the Woefully Self-Employed
I once read the IRS’ summary of taxpayer “Filing Burden.” In it, the IRS helpfully states, “We hear from taxpayers that preparing and filing tax returns are time consuming and …
Q-tips and Dental Appointments
This November I’ve been learning some things about being thankful. As a full-time free-lance harpist, I’m careful with my finances. I’ve never yet gone hungry (except when I’m driving back …
7 Days, 7 Gigs
Monday
While playing for the Mother’s Day tea party this afternoon, I contemplated how blessed I am. (My mind wanders when I play certain songs that are thoroughly embedded in my …
Why You Should Go Swing Dancing Next Week
There are multiple reasons why you should do swing dancing next week. 1. It’s very good exercise, and far more enjoyable than doing time on a treadmill. 2. They say …
Etiquette According to a Renaissance Festival Musician
Last night I began reading Polly Platt’s hilarious handbook entitled “French or Foe?” on differences between French and American cultures. She records how, after twelve years of living in France, …
Reflections from the Concert Hall Stage | Harp in Orchestra
“My moist hands rest loosely on the black film of my skirt. The air around me shakes and I feel the excitement of my fellow musicians through my feet on …