Trying to write after a long layoff . . .
I get ideas \u2013 usually in the small hours of the morning \u2013 but translating them to written text has been extremely difficult. Is it writers\u2019 block? I don\u2019t really consider myself a writer. I would like to write more. I think I write well. I don\u2019t think I am a \u2018writer\u2019.
I spend a lot of time at work on a computer. At home, I actually have a decent setup but there always seems to be something else I should do. I keep thinking I will use that early morning good energy time to write. Someday . . .
And someday may be approaching. After Sepi and I made the decision last January that I could retire, the actual date has crept closer and closer. Jon at work got me a countdown display that shows days and hours (and minutes and seconds!). I keep it on the Stage Manager\u2019s desk for anyone to see. I believe it\u2019s on 41 days today.
Yesterday at work was an annual event honoring the members of the orchestra who are retiring. Surprisingly to me, I was included in the celebration. Esa-Pekka made a little speech during the concert in which I was called out on stage for applause from the orchestra and the audience.
After the show there was a gathering with food and drink in one of the backstage rooms. Michele got up and said some nice things about me. I then spoke briefly, thanking my crew, Michele and Tim but forgetting Sepi. I found that I got rather emotional doing it. I really love the orchestra. They all appreciate what we do.
I really do consider it the pinnacle of my career. It\u2019s a hard job but being part of the team that helps a great orchestra make great music is very satisfying.
After many years of hiding it, I let the cat out of the bag to certain members of the orchestra that I like to play music. I was reluctant to do that because I know how good these musicians really are. I\u2019m not even close to their level. To a person, though, they have been supportive of my music making.
Lately, a common question I get is what am I going to do in my retirement. I say play more music. Then I say write more.<\/p>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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