I’ve blocked off time every day to stop my work and take a break to just engage in musical creativity, whether that means composing, practicing, or just sketching ideas. Sometimes it happens and sometimes it doesn’t, but I’m still striving to be more faithful to my goal. Even so, it’s definitely encouraging me to put more work into my passions on a regular basis.

I looked back at what I had done in 2024 and instead of focusing on the many positives–Jonathon’s commission, studying music history abroad, attending conferences, and receiving both praise and valuable feedback during masterclasses–or giving myself grace considering all of the things I had done outside of composition, I felt like a failure.

According to my calculations (based on recent personal experience), 19 credits + 8 tutoring clients + 4 minors + 4 club executive boards + 3 weekly lessons + 3 on campus jobs + 1 varsity sport = 0 free time and a LOT of stress.

When we went to the marionette puppet theater in Salzburg to see Mozart’s Magic Flute I was completely enamored...I felt just like a little Austrian kid watching the puppets dance on the stage as I got my first taste of opera.

This trip truly changed my outlook on music, my career, and my life, which I hope will be evident as I continue to grow.

March is now over and I can’t believe it! It absolutely flew by for me and I was blessed with so many great opportunities.

These past couple of days have reminded me not only where I’m going and why I’m on this path, but also why I’m going to refuse to stray from it.

“Blame no one, expect nothing, do something.”

For 2024, my most important goal is to put in the work and love and passion to earn everything I want.