SnowZilla....

1/23/2016

been a little while since I last posted.... Winter break ( I actually took a break) and the start of the semester kept me busy.
I'm now sitting at a chilis in Pittsburgh, on the second of three consecutive weeks on the road. This time it is conducting, and I'm having a wonderful time working with some truly terrific students. First, Austin Texas, conducting the region 18 5A wind ensemble, one of 5 honor bands. Had a terrific time with some really wonderful musicians and colleagues. Got to visit with and do some classes Kathy Humphrey at Cele middle school and Ryan Cirna at Pflugerville HS. Also spent some time at Ann Richards school for exceptional women leaders and their great band director ( and mason alumni) Stephen Howard

Then it was off to Pittsburgh and the Alle Kiski honor band. Great, hard working students and some really wonderful teachers. Had a blast re-visiting the Mackey Strange Humors.
However, the only bad part of this particular trip was the massive snowstorm that hit my hometown. As of today, Saturday Jan 23, I'm still here in Pittsburgh, unable to get down the PA turnpike or anyplace remotely close to DC or NOVA. Pittsburgh has a few inches of snow, but DC apparently has 20++ and it's still snowing
I'm in a nice hotel, close to a movie theater, restaurants and a mall. I think I'll check out the Warhol museum tomorrow.
I hope to make it home Monday.... Time will tell.
My hosts here have been great and I'm making the best of it, but I would like to be home!!!!
If I do get home, it will be for a couple of days, before I leave again for the PMEA district 7 honor band. Good times and hopefully easier weather :)
The joys of road work. I'm supposed to go to Nebraska in February.... Stay tuned

Deidra Varner

1/29/2016 08:28:55 am

Hmmm.......you do appear to be on the road a lot. As a parent of a student contemplating becoming a Patriot I am just a little bit concerned. All those students and colleagues out there commanding your
Wonderful attention..... What about the little folks back home ....? Just a thought

John Kilkenny

1/29/2016 08:48:39 am

Hi! A valid concern, no doubt
Two of the trips took place before classes started, and my current trip happened after I taught my lessons for the week. Chamber ensembles and symphonic band start next week and I will miss no rehearsals for any other travel.
My Mason students are my number #1 priority!!!!
They know that, and they know that at any time they can call, text, e mail or write me with a comment, question or concern. I'll be teaching most of this weekend when I return to town in order to stay on schedule
You'll find that most good, current and involved college professors travel for teaching performance and clinic work. Part of the "professional development" in the job

Keeps me current and involved in the business

Thanks for checking out the website

Feel free to e mail me at [email protected] anytime

Deidra V.

1/29/2016 09:19:46 pm

Just met and talked to one ofyour current students today who attested to just that, Your availability, accessibility and commitment to your students. Admittedly while u are furthering your professional development and keeping current and involved the contacts you make can only help grow and strengthen the program at Mason and your students can certainly benefit professionally from your many contacts.

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