So tentative, she breaks into a sweat as she blooms ?.
I love tulips- the way they open in the morning, like they are breathing. I picture little plant muscle micro-tendrils stretching (haha- I am obviously no botanist!) and shyly exposing the heart of the tulip. It's a metaphor for all of us, and maybe in particular artists, those for whom vulnerability is a lifestyle. Sharing our inner-most passions and experiences with others is scary business! One of the things that gives me courage to write and perform (beyond brutal insanity) is the knowledge that I am not alone. We have all been given gifts, and if I have been given the gift to put into words and melody something that reaches another person, allowing that person to know they they, too, are not alone, then let me at it! At our core, we really are one! So thank you, dear friends, for fueling my courage and my music! #connectingworlds ??
Now for news!
-The WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) awards were a blast, and what an honor to have been nominated for Jazz Artist of the Year for the third year in a row! I owe that in great part to the musicians with whom I play- Mick Maloney, Scott Dercks, Jordan Christiansen, Bob Balsley, James LeFevre, Andy Pagel... the core who have shared the stage with me this past year! And also to producer and maestro Aaron Zinsmeister of White Raven Audio. I have been challenged and stretched working with him- talk about little muscle micro-tendrils being exercised, emotionally and mentally and singing-wise! It's inspiring. I am excited to share that Aaron was awarded "Keyboard Artist of the Year" at the WAMI's. Such an honor to be recognized by your peers!
-Speaking of Aaron, we are in the thick of planning for a really cool video to compliment the release of our tune "Moonlight" in early summer! "Hello there, the stars are out speckling the dark, and I'm just one of many..." The music is stunning, with whispers of Debussy's "Clair de Lune." You will get a chance to experience Aaron's award winning finesse on the keyboard! I can't wait- tho the video shoot scares me a bit- think tulips... think vulnerable... think cameras, etc. Yeah scary! I will keep you posted!
Have a beautiful day! And remember: you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think-- ♪♫??
-Rändi