But who is Evelyn Glennie to me? She was the first 'professional' percussionist I remember hearing and viewing. She was making a living at doing what I loved to do. She was a she... and that meant a lot as well. When you want to know how to play a piece, you listen to her recording. She's also mostly deaf. Her talent is undeniable and yet she lives in a world of mostly silence. Still she is the most musical and honest performer I've seen, and in her bio you will find nothing about her deafness. She speaks almost perfectly, uses no other interpretation than the reading of lips and has made her mark on the world.
While listening to Ilijas by Zivkovic, a beautiful piece on marimba, I couldn't help but fight back tears in remembrance of a life I used to know. Countless hours practicing, healing blisters, memorizing music, caring for instruments and teaching percussion. I've harldy played since I left Rexburg and find it almost painful to listen to percussion music because I miss it so much. I found myself finally really wanting to get back into the world of percussion, but how?
During intermission we overheard a gentleman speaking to a student-aged girl about a reception after the show. Dan asked him about it and he graciously invited us to attend as well. We entered a banquet room full of fancy food, wine, and servers and immediately felt out of place. We ate to look occupied and looked around to see what group of people this really was. Soon Evelyn entered the room and I tensed up. What could I possibly say that would mean anything and not sound like some rambling idiot? We were kindly ushered over towards her and I thanked her for sharing her gift and talent with us and for continuing to explore what percussion can do. She was gracious and patient with my asking for an autograph and a picture. I hope she knows that even if I mean nothing to her, she has touched and inspired me.
And as it turns out, the gentleman we overheard speaking about the reception is one of the principal percussionists for the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, Rob Crosse. He seemed genuinely appreciative and interested in my background and encouraged me to get in contact with him for possible ways to get back into playing. It's an interesting world we live in, isn't it?
That's awesome! :)
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you were able to meet your idol. I could have written parts of this post- when I hear old recordings of my ensembles playing, or hear a piece I once played I really miss performing. My problem is, in my current condition I can't even hold my flute. Will I play again? I hope so. But who knows?
ReplyDeleteIf it doesn't pan out with VSO, remember community groups and check local colleges- they often have ensembles the community members can participate in. Good luck!
When you said that you were going to see her, I googled her...That's awesome! I miss playing my clarinet and its great that you are so interested in getting back into your love!
ReplyDeleteI like this! I know how much Evelyn means to you. Have you ever gotten back into playing?
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