I finally had a few performances after not being on the stage for nearly a year. In February, I played an in-person concert at Jacksonville University and a virtual concert for the University of Central Florida annual Clarinet Day. 

So, what were the experiences like? Different. But a lot of fun. 

It took a lot of work to be in a place to be able to perform again, physically and mentally. Face it: the pandemic has lasted too long. Way too long. When Covid first began to spread and was creating so much turmoil in the world, I was not in the mood to do much work. There were too many other things to worry about. And while I, again and again, remarked on how lucky I was to be healthy and in a stable place, it was still stressful (and still is, honestly) to read of rising infection rates and of others’ struggles. 

Early in the pandemic, I did make good use of my practicing, however. I went back to basics. I focused on things that had slipped a bit, such as finger efficiency, tone, etc. While some may not consider this ‘fun’ work, I did find playing long tones to be meditative and appreciated having a purpose in my work. 

But…these performances were scheduled. And the concert dates did creep up rather fast. It was good to have deadlines to work towards and to begin working on the music I love again.  

As I said, the concert at JU was in person. It did seem strange to be performing a concert in person during a pandemic. The audience was small, but it was great to share music with them. The virtual concert for the Clarinet Day was also great fun. The audience was really responsive, asked good questions in the Zoom chat and seemed to enjoy themselves. All that made for a concert experience that felt more interactive and engaging for both me and the audience. 

Although I am eager to be back to more ‘normal’ concert experiences, I am grateful for these chances to perform.