Each week leading up to our next concert we want to offer a short musician focus, “about love…” . Stories about the things we love, the things we hate, and the things that make us laugh in our relationships with music, the horn…and percussion? But to get us started here is the short version of our own ‘Rona love story…
We had all met before or had friends in common. But like most new ‘relationships’ today, we truly connected online. After texting for a few weeks we set a time to meet in person. It was summer (of 2020) so we opted for an outdoor activity. Our first meeting was wonderful! Even six-feet apart, the love and support was tangible as we shared stories of laughter and tears between moments musical joy. Within an hour we set a time to meet again. In fact, we continued to meet every week all the way through early November, sharing our love of music and the horn in parks throughout the city.
After that the cold, rain, and threats of snow forced us indoors. Saddened by our separation we searched for large indoor spaces so we could still meet and maintain safe social-distancing. Auditoriums, gymnasiums and churches were all lined up…and then there was another stay-at-home advisory.
Without missing a beat, we went back online where it all began and started work on a virtual holiday concert. During preparations planning ideas for future projects were already being tossed around. Not wanting to get ahead of ourselves though, we agreed to wait until our first concert was done. We would meet back up in the new year to discuss taking on another project. ‘Home for the Holidays’ was premiered on December 18. It was a lot of work and worth every penny.
However, much like our first meeting, we were on to our next project sooner than planned. In the 3 days after our holiday concert (not the intended 2 week break) Jeremiah created and sent out a recording spreadsheet, planning document, suggested repertoire list and technical changes document. It felt almost like a declaration of love. We were all thinking about it but Jeremiah was one to say it first. Each of us returned his sentiment by contributing to the file before our meeting on January 2, 2021. Just 10 days after we had 23 transcriptions and arrangements completed (90% done in-house), 12 recording tracks started and promo materials set to be proofed and published one month ahead of concert date. If that doesn’t say love and devotion I am not quite sure what does!
Until the time when we meet again in person, we look forward to each other’s continued contributions of creativity, sharing and support from the safety of our homes.
‘Rona Quartet 