REFLECTING

Late spring and summer have been full of activities. Here are some highlights.

I was a member of the PAVAN guitar faculty for about seven years (this photo is from a previous year). I met many students who have gone on to achieve good things with the guitar. It was great to return to this intensive summer program in a new role as a guest artist. I'd encourage any eligible students in the Northern Virginia area to audition for next year. Thanks to Michael DeLalla, Dr. Kevin Vigil, Keith Fillipu and AJ Ikner for having me.

I have been volunteering with the Maryland Symphony Orchestra this summer, lending a hand in the office while also deepening my knowledge about arts management. I was able to spend a day at the Antietam Battlefield helping with the Salute to Independence,  observing how this major event (which includes an outdoor symphony performance, cannon fire, children's activities, military fly-over and fireworks) comes to be.

You may have also seen me helping at Maryland Entertainment Group's "Shakespeare in the Park" event. I really enjoy this organization's programming (their performance of "Red," a play about Rothko, was profound experience) and it is fascinating to observe the similiarities and differences of the mechanics behind producing music and theater productions.

Whether an orchestra, theater company or guitar festival, many arts organizations operate with small or volunteer staffs who could use a helping hand. A wide variety of tasks are often on the to-do list and your skills might be just the right fit. If you can sew, type, build, sell concessions, usher or offer professional services, I can only imagine there is an organization that will be grateful for your skills. Be encouraged to reach out.

LOOKING FORWARD

Upcoming Concerts

Guitar Lessons

I have openings for private students in the Hagerstown/Frederick, MD area!

I am working to build a small studio of guitar students in my local area. If you are interested in improving your guitar and music skills in general or classical styles, I have openings for private or group lessons. I especially enjoy working with adult learners, fellow teachers and college students. Absolute beginners are welcome as well as advanced classical students.

I also have openings for credit, private lessons at Hagerstown Community College (I believe this is my 13th year of teaching at HCC!). In addition to one-on-one lessons, there will be a new, credit guitar ensemble offered at HCC on Monday and Wednesdays from 2:30-3:20pm. Danny Webber and I will coach the ensemble. We have room for several more players and there may be a mix of classical and electric guitarists. Please email cemowbray@hagerstowncc.edu if you have any questions or difficulty finding the course numbers.

Patreon

Patrons have supported artists and enabled the creation of many important works throughout history. They provided regular employment, living accommodations and commissions for such famous composers as Haydn, Mozart, and Tchaikovsky. Some became famous for their vital roles in supporting the arts. (Read Article)

I have joined a new service called Patreon that brings together the concepts of patronage and crowdfunding: patrons pledge small contributions, such as $1 per month, and the impact is multiplied by numerous contributors. Those small tiers give all of us (not just the Esterhazy's or Archbishop of Salzburg!) an opportunity to be patrons and feel good about directly supporting the efforts of artists whose work we admire. Martin Taylor and Pentatonix are just a couple of artists with $1 tiers on Patreon. Please consider visiting my Patreon site, becoming a Patreon-patron, and sharing the information with others.

As always, my sincere thanks to all of you for the friendship and support. I hope you have a great summer and please look for my next newsletter in the fall.