Echoes of a Lifelong Song

Listening to my sister Pam practice piano is a cherished memory that still resonates deeply within me. The soft, melodic notes flowing from the keys filled our home with comforting harmony, transforming ordinary afternoons into moments of magic and inspiration. Watching her fingers dance effortlessly across the keyboard sparked a longing in me to master the piano myself, to create beautiful music that could captivate and soothe. Each time I heard her play, I imagined the stories behind the melodies and dreamed of the day when I could produce such enchanting sounds. That simple act of listening not only nurtured my appreciation for music but also represents the beginning of my lifelong journey with music, all sparked by the sound of my sister’s piano practice floating up from the basement.

When I turned seven, Mom arranged for Ann Erpenbach, a talented high school student, to teach me the basics of playing piano. I remember the excitement mixed with nerves as I sat down in front of the piano for the very first time, my small fingers hesitant yet eager to explore the keys. Ann’s patient guidance and youthful enthusiasm made every lesson enjoyable, turning what could have been daunting into a fun adventure in music. From learning simple scales to playing my first melodies, those early lessons laid the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of music. It was more than just mastering notes; it was about discovering a new language of expression, all thanks to that initial opportunity and Ann’s encouragement.

Driven by a desire to play as well as my older sister, I eagerly absorbed everything Ann taught me. Her patient mentorship and contagious enthusiasm sparked a deep interest within me. Recognizing my need for formal instruction to truly advance my skills, Mom thoughtfully arranged for me to study with Connie Parrish, Pam’s piano teacher. Connie’s combination of talent and nurturing approach helped me grow not only in technical ability but also in my understanding of the emotional expression and narrative power of music. Each lesson became an exciting exploration, turning a casual hobby into a lifelong passion.

By the time I reached fifth grade, Connie had noticed my commitment and progress in music and confidently felt I was prepared to compete in the demanding National Guild auditions in Sioux Falls. This was an important turning point in my musical development, pushing me beyond familiar boundaries and introducing me to a more competitive and professional environment. Getting ready for the auditions involved countless hours of practice, perfecting techniques, and mastering challenging compositions with Connie’s relentless support and encouragement. She assured me that taking part in the program would create new opportunities to connect with other young musicians and gain valuable insights from experienced judges. Placing my trust in her judgment, I devoted myself to memorizing my piano selections, scales, and music history as I prepared for my very first audition.

At last, the much-anticipated day for my very first National Guild audition arrived. My mother and I climbed into our Chevy Impala and set off on an eighty-minute drive to Sioux Falls College. As we cruised along Interstate 90, my thoughts raced through every piece I had diligently practiced, anxious about whether I would flawlessly recall each note under the judges’ watchful eyes. With every mile, my excitement and nerves intensified, aware that this moment represented the fruit of many months of hard work and dedication. Upon reaching the college, the energetic presence of gifted pianists from around South Dakota heightened both my apprehension and resolve. Overwhelmed with panic and fear, I somehow managed to deposit the butterflies in my stomach into a bucket my mother had cleverly packed.

Inside the lively college building, Mom swiftly collected the neatly arranged information packet from the registration desk, her eyes intently studying the details. Side by side, we wove through the complex hallways until we located the room where I was scheduled to perform for the National Guild judges. The waiting area outside the room exuded a blend of quiet expectancy and focused silence, its highly polished wooden floors reflecting the afternoon light filtering in through the windows. As I nervously awaited my turn, faint piano melodies drifted from beneath the doorway, and I wondered if the player inside felt nervous as well. Clasping my clammy hand, Mom smiled reassuringly, reminding me that every ounce of effort I had invested had led to this very moment — a distinctive arena where passion, practice, and nervous energy would come together in the music I was about to present.

As soon as my name was announced and I stepped into the room, a natural alertness surged through me, heightening my senses in anticipation of what lay ahead. Being my first year of auditioning for the National Guild, the judges kindly took some time to walk me through the entire procedure. They explained that my performance would be judged not only on technical precision and accuracy but also on elements such as musical expression, phrasing, and overall interpretation. They stressed the importance of playing with confidence and advised me to concentrate on enjoying the music rather than fixating on flawless execution. Additionally, they detailed the scoring system and how each piece would be evaluated, providing me with a clear picture of what to expect. This considerate introduction fostered a supportive environment, so when my fingers touched the keys, I felt both ready and inspired to present my music.

Mrs. Parrish had thoughtfully chosen ten pieces for me and instructed me on the scales that matched their emotional tone and technical requirements. I swayed rhythmically on the piano bench as my fingers navigated not only the energetic, brisk pieces demanding quick finger movements and precise articulation, but also the slower, more expressive tunes where phrasing and tone were paramount. The scales I executed underscored my finger dexterity and demonstrated my grasp of the musical keys, reflecting my capacity to merge emotional depth with technical skill. Altogether, this preparation transformed the initial instinctive adrenaline sparked by hearing my name into a seamless fusion of discipline and artistry, exhibiting my talents to the keen judges.

Returning to the National Guild auditions for the next five years was both a challenging and rewarding journey for me. Each time, without fail, nerves would overwhelm me to the point that I ended up throwing up in the parking lot before my performance—a physical reaction to the intense pressure I put on myself. Yet, despite these unsettling moments behind the scenes, sitting at the piano felt like entering a different world. I managed to channel all that anxiety into a confident performance, letting the music speak louder than my fears. Looking back, those recurring struggles made every successful audition even more meaningful, teaching me resilience and the true value of perseverance in pursuing my passion for music.

After graduating from high school, I made the exciting decision to pursue music in college, a path that felt both natural and deeply fulfilling given my years of dedication to mastering my craft. Looking back, I credit much of my growth to the countless hours spent in lessons, where patient instructors helped me refine my technique and developed my understanding of music theory and expression. Additionally, participating in the rigorous National Guild auditions challenged me to push beyond my limits, exposing me to high standards of performance and discipline. My varied experiences playing the piano not only honed my skills but also instilled in me a strong sense of confidence and resilience, qualities that proved invaluable as I navigated the demanding yet rewarding world of collegiate music.

Little did I know when I started playing piano in second grade that my piano skills would become the cornerstone of my adult life. In college I continued taking piano lessons while also focusing on improving my vocal skills. When I graduated and couldn't find a job in my major field of study, English Education, my musical abilities enabled me to teach choir for three rewarding years and direct musicals for seven. Mastering the piano not only enhanced my understanding of harmony and melody but also gave me the ability to accompany singers with precision and expression, creating a richer learning environment for my students. Simultaneously, honing my vocal technique allowed me to mentor choir students effectively, helping them develop their own voices while fostering a sense of unity and passion within the group. These skills also proved indispensable when directing musicals at Brownell Talbot, where I coordinated complex performances that required a delicate balance of musicality, timing, and emotional storytelling. Through these experiences, I not only grew as a musician, but also as a leader, learning how to inspire and cultivate talent in others while bringing artistic visions to life on stage.

In time, I secured a position teaching high school English, and gradually, my involvement with music began to fade. My piano remained in the living room, ready to be played, but my evenings were mostly devoted to spending time with my children or recovering from exhausting days at school. As the years went by, I became increasingly aware of how much I longed for the vibrant melodies and harmonies that once filled my life. While engaging in classroom discussions about literature and grammar was fulfilling, there was an essential element missing—the deep emotional bond that music had always given me. To fill this gap, I chose to join the choir at my church, a step that rekindled my enthusiasm for singing and the sense of community it brought.

My church choir quickly evolved into more than just a gathering of voices; it became a nurturing family where I could creatively express myself and share my passion for music with others who felt the same joy. Through regular rehearsals and performances, I was able to harmonize my new career with my enduring love of music, demonstrating that even when life takes unexpected turns professionally, the heart’s true passions continue to find a place to flourish.

Looking back now on this winding path—from the nervousness I felt in the parking lot before National Guild auditions to the confidence I now have in leading choirs and embracing my musical identity—I recognize how fundamental music has been throughout every stage of my life. It has served as both a challenge and a sanctuary, a fountain of discipline and happiness, a mentor and a friend. Although my daily routines have shifted, the music within me remains vibrant, reminding me that genuine passion never disappears; it simply waits patiently for the perfect moment to express itself once more. As I keep singing with my church choir, I carry forward invaluable lessons of resilience, personal growth, and the profound ability of music to unite, soothe, and inspire.

This is my childhood piano that now sits proudly in my living room.