Making the Most of Opportunities Given to You

So, tonight I got to be part of a rehearsal that was very special (at least to me). As a Music Education major, I have to take conducting courses. (Have is an interesting word because I think I would voluntarily take them even if they weren't required....anywho, back to the story). Well, one of the most influential conductors in my life is Colonel Lowell Graham. His expression of the music through his conducting, facial expressions, and body movements makes you want to play the music just as the composer intended it...in all its glory. So, tonight I had a rehearsal with a community group, and guess who the guest conductor for our concert is? None other than Colonel Lowell Graham. I was extremely excited for this and wanted to make the most of it while I knew he was going to be conducting the ensemble two hours. So, I got permission to video tape the rehearsal. Not only is this man an amazing conductor, but his rehearsal style is wonderful. We achieved so much in such a short time, and he did not have to say much to get his point across (something we discussed in my conducting class). Now, not only do I have the memory of the rehearsal, but I have a video that I can watch again and again to study his movements, how he used his left hand for expression, certain terms he used to get certain musical effects and sounds from the ensemble, and much more. The moral of the story.... if you have the opportunity to video tape a rehearsal, lecture, or event with someone that influenced you or has a lot of knowledge...do it!