It seems that blogging could be just another thing to keep up with. I've not been very good at keeping my blog updated. As I look back on my first semester of teaching, there are some self-observations and things to ponder.
The difficult part about teaching at this college is not mainly academic. My general observation of the students here are that they lack direction in life and are very myopic. (This is true of most freshmen and teenagers, I'm sure.) Being a community college, the lower tuition does attract students who are not as well-off financially and are not as prepared for life (much less college). I remember having a discussion with a friend about the attitude of poverty. I'm thankful for that conversation because I am now observing the effects of that attitude. The students have to work to afford school but their work schedule is affecting school. Some of my students are working 40 hrs a week and working the third shift. At the same time, there are those who are trying their hand at the slots in the casinos, spending (wasting) what little money they have. I had a student who said he's kept track of his wins at the casino and he's ahead by $20. I didn't mince words when I said, "How many hours have you spent there to make $20? I can show you a way to make $20 in one hour." Cruel of me to say that, right? Sad, that it never crossed his mind.
There are also students who have not been parented and I am in the role of a surrogate/foster mom. They have no idea how to care for themselves as they've never been cared for before. I think my An-An is privileged to be my cat. She has the best food (real fish or poultry cooked specially for her), a nice warm bed to sleep in and someone who pays her attention. Most teens do not care about their nutritional intake. I had a few students who were not eating and were not aware of the problems that this behavior will lead too. I dislike lecturing or having to step into the role of MOM but when I talk to them, their ignorance is so apparent and I shock them back into eating.
It is also my first semester teaching aural skills so it was a steep learning curve for me. I never took an aural skills class. The pedagogical challenge in teaching any subject is to present the material and concepts clearly. I discovered that most students lack a systematic approach to dealing with a problem. I am not an advocate of rules or to repeating steps for solving problems, because creative problem solving is the way to go. The students I dealt with had no idea of what exactly they needed to achieve which impedes the problem solving process. The challenge for me was to let them figure out what they could or could not do on their own. We progressed very slowly based on the textbook but we did make solid progress on some basic concepts.
As far as piano teaching went, I taught class piano and applied piano. I didn't have any piano majors (not yet). I last taught class piano at Wichita State and I modeled my syllabus after it. Towards the end of the semester I decided that since it was my class, I shouldn't allow Wichita State's syllabus to dictate the pace and materials covered. It was a sigh of relief for everyone as I postponed the teaching of the black key major scales to Class Piano II which is a new class I am establishing. For applied piano, it was expected that there would be some basic problems to solve and teaching them how a grand piano is different than an upright. I am requesting for a grand piano to be put in my studio next semester.
My other steep learning curve was with student auditions. I do have 10 free rides (tuition and books) to award and I auditioned two students this semester. One was successful, the other is pending because the parent acted inappropriately the entire audition. The student refused the offer to try out the piano which I thought was very strange. The playing was alright, not great (legato, phrasing, voicing & dynamics) but not bad (memory & pedalling). Following the audition, the parent answered every interview question I posed to the student and also openly challenged my teaching ability. I offered to give her child a lesson on her audition piece if she was so concerned that her child would have nothing to gain from studying with me. I also told them they could take my cell phone and find the numbers of several piano profs. I told them one phone call and I can set up another audition for her kid. As I walked them out, I casually asked whether she had played a grand piano before. She said she has never and I chuckled, "That explains your playing." I hated to tell them that playing on a grand is not arrogant behavior because it's like asking a Nascar driver to drive an ordinary car for a race. I will have closed auditions from now on. No one else will be allowed in the room during the audition. I regret I don't fawn over many things and I try to stay emotionally reserved (Now if you're An-An, that's a different story). I came from that afternoon totally exhausted.
I am wondering about why my college asks me to provide dinner or prelude music. I'd rather not because that is something I don't do on a regular basis. I'm neither a gig musician nor do I wish to establish that reputation without establishing my recital capabilities first. I am walking a fine line here. If they sincerely wish for a piano program at this college, then I must be a serious musician and do what most piano majors do. Besides, I want to put my best foot forward and show them what my strengths are. April 1, 2010 will be my debut faculty recital there.
So here's to a good first semester of teaching.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
An-An: The Siamese Cat
I am the proud mommy of a 7-month old Siamese cat, An-An 安安. She was born on May 27, 2009 and was the runt of the litter. She was a sick little kitten when I brought her home but is now a beautiful, although temperamental cat. The vets think she is a pure breed because she looks and acts like one. It is great fun watching a kitten grow up and everyday she does something new. She is one of the most affectionate cat I've had, and loves to gives kisses (licking or nibbling). Like most Siamese, she can be vocal at times but that has not been a problem at home. She screams at the vet's as if someone was torturing her. She is utterly and totally spoiled!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Abbreviated Version of Summer 2009
June 15: Defended my document and passed. College HR called and told me I had to interview next week if not I wouldn't be considered for the job.
June 16-18: Was a complete blur between fixing my car, editing my document and making travel arrangements.
June 19: Drove to Atlanta at 3:00 am and flew to Wichita, Kansas. Stayed with a former colleague.
June 21: Went to Winfield.
June 22: Went for my job interview in Ark City. Flew back to Atlanta and drove back to T-town.
June 23: Final edits on the document.
June 24: Turned in document at 4:00pm.
June 25: Received the notification from the Graduate Office at 10:50pm that my document needed no revisions.
June 29: Was offered the job at the college I interviewed. The packing begins.
July 2: Beach vacation at Gulf Shores.
July 6: The packing begins. I managed to gather a lot of furniture and appliances which I needed.
July 24: Finally settled on a house in Ark City.
July 25: Decided to hire people to load the Penske truck. Best $120 I ever spent.
July 26: The trek out to Kansas begins. Unloading and setting up my new home. Buying and unloading a new fridge was quite a challenge.
July 30: I fly back to Alabama.
Aug 1: My dad arrives for my commencement.
Aug 5: Played "Farewell to Capstone" recital at Capstone Village.
Aug 6: Pool party at my house.
Aug 7: Picked up my new kitty cat. Scrawny fella.
Aug 8: Commencement. Lots of outdoor portraits around the Quad.
Aug 9: Jumped in the car, with my Dad and kitty, and started the long drive to Kansas.
Aug 10: We stopped in Altus, Arkansas at the wineries. Arrived in Ark City in the late afternoon.
Aug 13: Sent Dad to the Wichita airport at 6:45 am and drove straight to my first day on the job.
And you think I've had time to blog. :) It hasn't stopped ever since. Fall break please come soon!
June 16-18: Was a complete blur between fixing my car, editing my document and making travel arrangements.
June 19: Drove to Atlanta at 3:00 am and flew to Wichita, Kansas. Stayed with a former colleague.
June 21: Went to Winfield.
June 22: Went for my job interview in Ark City. Flew back to Atlanta and drove back to T-town.
June 23: Final edits on the document.
June 24: Turned in document at 4:00pm.
June 25: Received the notification from the Graduate Office at 10:50pm that my document needed no revisions.
June 29: Was offered the job at the college I interviewed. The packing begins.
July 2: Beach vacation at Gulf Shores.
July 6: The packing begins. I managed to gather a lot of furniture and appliances which I needed.
July 24: Finally settled on a house in Ark City.
July 25: Decided to hire people to load the Penske truck. Best $120 I ever spent.
July 26: The trek out to Kansas begins. Unloading and setting up my new home. Buying and unloading a new fridge was quite a challenge.
July 30: I fly back to Alabama.
Aug 1: My dad arrives for my commencement.
Aug 5: Played "Farewell to Capstone" recital at Capstone Village.
Aug 6: Pool party at my house.
Aug 7: Picked up my new kitty cat. Scrawny fella.
Aug 8: Commencement. Lots of outdoor portraits around the Quad.
Aug 9: Jumped in the car, with my Dad and kitty, and started the long drive to Kansas.
Aug 10: We stopped in Altus, Arkansas at the wineries. Arrived in Ark City in the late afternoon.
Aug 13: Sent Dad to the Wichita airport at 6:45 am and drove straight to my first day on the job.
And you think I've had time to blog. :) It hasn't stopped ever since. Fall break please come soon!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Follow Up on Procedures
The SGA resolution to include student signatures on forms was passed unanimously. I hope this will help other graduate students and hope no one will be caught in the same situation I was.
The faculty member acted with good intentions, I'm sure, but it certainly caused a great deal of distress to everyone concerned. I have passed my defense and there was no dissenting vote. I am now in the process of editing my document for the final submission to Graduate School which is due June 26.
The faculty member acted with good intentions, I'm sure, but it certainly caused a great deal of distress to everyone concerned. I have passed my defense and there was no dissenting vote. I am now in the process of editing my document for the final submission to Graduate School which is due June 26.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Abuse of Procedures at My University
I have not named my university and I will leave you to decide to find out or not.
On April 21, an administrator at my school sat in on my first draft meeting for my doctoral document and disagreed with some of the theoretical statements I made. Upon further research, those statements I made were incorrect and too general. I found further information to back up my new observations and made necessary corrections to my document. This prof did an analysis (still incomplete), made observations and formed conclusions, and wants me to insert his material into my document. I refused to use everything because that would constitute plagiarism. I cannot defend something I did not do. I have other reasons why I am not using his material but it's besides the point to list them here.
This fiasco delayed a possible defense before the end of May. My dissertation chair had to move to WA so he wasn't physically around. On June 1, my musicology professor had to leave the country. On May 25, this administrator attempted to replace my dissertation chair, musicology professor and theory professor (3 out of 6 people). He put himself in my committee in place of the theory professor, and changed the musicology person. I managed to keep my dissertation chair, thankfully. This change was signed off by my department chair before I could fully raise my objections. He has threatened to refuse to sign off my document unless I acquiesce to his demands. Why would someone put themselves in a committee less than a month before the submission deadline of June 26? The form which my university uses doesn't require a student's signature. The actions of this administrator is like a coup e'tat.
My final draft has been ready since May 15 and I am still waiting for a defense to be scheduled. Last I heard, it is pending for June 15. My dept chair, major professor and dissertation chair are all involved now. His actions leave me no room other than to stage a mutiny. If I have a dissenting vote on my document, it won't really matter in the long run. I need to prepare the gist of document for publication and not let his actions weight me down.
Do check procedures at your own university to ensure they cannot be abused against you at the last possible moment. If graduate school forms do not need the student's signature, lobby your SGA senator to change this. You need to know at every step of the way and be given a chance to discuss changes to your program. Be forewarned.
On April 21, an administrator at my school sat in on my first draft meeting for my doctoral document and disagreed with some of the theoretical statements I made. Upon further research, those statements I made were incorrect and too general. I found further information to back up my new observations and made necessary corrections to my document. This prof did an analysis (still incomplete), made observations and formed conclusions, and wants me to insert his material into my document. I refused to use everything because that would constitute plagiarism. I cannot defend something I did not do. I have other reasons why I am not using his material but it's besides the point to list them here.
This fiasco delayed a possible defense before the end of May. My dissertation chair had to move to WA so he wasn't physically around. On June 1, my musicology professor had to leave the country. On May 25, this administrator attempted to replace my dissertation chair, musicology professor and theory professor (3 out of 6 people). He put himself in my committee in place of the theory professor, and changed the musicology person. I managed to keep my dissertation chair, thankfully. This change was signed off by my department chair before I could fully raise my objections. He has threatened to refuse to sign off my document unless I acquiesce to his demands. Why would someone put themselves in a committee less than a month before the submission deadline of June 26? The form which my university uses doesn't require a student's signature. The actions of this administrator is like a coup e'tat.
My final draft has been ready since May 15 and I am still waiting for a defense to be scheduled. Last I heard, it is pending for June 15. My dept chair, major professor and dissertation chair are all involved now. His actions leave me no room other than to stage a mutiny. If I have a dissenting vote on my document, it won't really matter in the long run. I need to prepare the gist of document for publication and not let his actions weight me down.
Do check procedures at your own university to ensure they cannot be abused against you at the last possible moment. If graduate school forms do not need the student's signature, lobby your SGA senator to change this. You need to know at every step of the way and be given a chance to discuss changes to your program. Be forewarned.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Definitions
I have endured my studies at my university for the past four years. I believe I have learned the definition of the following words in the past two weeks.
Coup d'etat: the sudden, unconstitutional deposition of a legitimate government, by a small group (in my case, one person). The usurpers established his legitimacy if the government (my department chair) fails to thwart his attempt or the acquiescence of the populace (my graduate committee) and the non-participant military forces (the graduate students).
Mutiny: a conspiracy among members of a group of similarly-situated individuals (my friends and I) to openly oppose, change or overthrow an existing authority (the usurper above). The term is commonly used for a rebellion among members of the military against their superior officer(s).
Myopia: nearsightedness or shortsightedness, a refractive defect of the eye. Close objects are very clear, but distant objects appear blurred. Metaphorically, myopia refers to cognitive thinking and decision making that is narrow sighted or lacking in concern for wider interests or longer-term consequences. It is often used to describe a decision that may be beneficial in the present but detrimental in the future.
Tunnel Vision: the lack of peripheral vision. Vision in which the visual field is severely constricted, as from within a tunnel looking out.
Yes, I should have studied political science and optometry, but not music.
Coup d'etat: the sudden, unconstitutional deposition of a legitimate government, by a small group (in my case, one person). The usurpers established his legitimacy if the government (my department chair) fails to thwart his attempt or the acquiescence of the populace (my graduate committee) and the non-participant military forces (the graduate students).
Mutiny: a conspiracy among members of a group of similarly-situated individuals (my friends and I) to openly oppose, change or overthrow an existing authority (the usurper above). The term is commonly used for a rebellion among members of the military against their superior officer(s).
Myopia: nearsightedness or shortsightedness, a refractive defect of the eye. Close objects are very clear, but distant objects appear blurred. Metaphorically, myopia refers to cognitive thinking and decision making that is narrow sighted or lacking in concern for wider interests or longer-term consequences. It is often used to describe a decision that may be beneficial in the present but detrimental in the future.
Tunnel Vision: the lack of peripheral vision. Vision in which the visual field is severely constricted, as from within a tunnel looking out.
Yes, I should have studied political science and optometry, but not music.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Lucy Pevensie & Aslan
I am in the thick of fighting for my dissertation. Not only am I fighting for it physically, but also in the spiritual.
I had two impressions concerning my battle. Firstly, I was standing, leaning against a huge being and enfolded by giant wings. No one would be able to touch me. Secondly, I was standing beside a lion, like Lucy Pevensie in the Chronicles of Narnia, poised to fight. No one would dare come close. Lucy doesn't fight, she just stands with full faith in her lion. These two impressions give me great comfort and encouragement.
Someone at church also gave a rhema word on Sunday as I was having these impressions. I knew those words were for me and spoke straight into my situation. "I have come to give you encouragement, ... encouragement that is tempered by steel so that you may stand against the schemes of the enemy." I stood taller that day, knowing that my resolved is being strengthened by God and I have to stand. Stubborn is as stubborn is and a battle of wills is going on.
I hope the next post here will be on the battle. I've already won, but I want to blog on how the battle unfolded. They don't call it a defense for nothing, do they?
I had two impressions concerning my battle. Firstly, I was standing, leaning against a huge being and enfolded by giant wings. No one would be able to touch me. Secondly, I was standing beside a lion, like Lucy Pevensie in the Chronicles of Narnia, poised to fight. No one would dare come close. Lucy doesn't fight, she just stands with full faith in her lion. These two impressions give me great comfort and encouragement.
Someone at church also gave a rhema word on Sunday as I was having these impressions. I knew those words were for me and spoke straight into my situation. "I have come to give you encouragement, ... encouragement that is tempered by steel so that you may stand against the schemes of the enemy." I stood taller that day, knowing that my resolved is being strengthened by God and I have to stand. Stubborn is as stubborn is and a battle of wills is going on.
I hope the next post here will be on the battle. I've already won, but I want to blog on how the battle unfolded. They don't call it a defense for nothing, do they?
Friday, May 29, 2009
Packing list for China
I was the shopping guru when I was in Beijing. I had to help look for some of these items. Here are some things which were hard to find (on a budget) in China last fall:
1. Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer
2. Solid stick deodorant
3. Good shoes (Especially the larger sizes, women's size 8 is a little difficult to find)
4. Fabric stain remover (Spray Wash solid is a good one to bring)
5. Fabric deodorizer
6. 3X5 note cards (You could make your own)
7. Feminine hygiene stuff
8. Good thermal wear (Silk available in Beijing)
9. Dri-fit or Cool Max active wear (Sports bras included)
10. Hiking apparel & shoes
11. Your favorite candy (Bring it!)
12. Clothes for tall people :) (To give you an idea: I wear an PXS here in the USA, but had to get XL.)
13. Supplements and vitamins
14. Ear plugs
Things I didn't regret bringing so I had them immediately:
1. A good knife. I brought a Farberware parer and a peeler.
2. A set of silverware: knife, fork and spoon.
3. Multipurpose tool.
Things I regret not bringing:
1. A good can opener.
2. ... Still thinking ....
Things you should always have with you:
1. Kleenex or toilet paper
2. Hand sanitizer
3. Your own shopping bag
4. A camera
5. A sense of humor & adventure
Things you can get for cheap:
1. Socks (all materials and lengths)
2. Winter coats, scarves and gloves
3. Clothing & other accessories
4. Stationery
5. Umbrellas (get the UV-coated kind, makes a difference in the heat)
6. Clothing alteration (hem pants, repair seams etc.)
7. Gel insoles
8. Prescription glasses
9. Wet wipes
10. Blankets
11. China licensed DVDs and CDs (real and fakes)
12. Surface shipping China Post (All my stuff arrived, undamaged and it took 2 months China-USA. Bring your stuff unpacked and they will pack it for you. If you're planning to ship DVDs and CDs, make sure you save all the receipts and show it to the post office agent for customs clearance.)
Things you should get:
1. Local SIM card for your unlocked cell phone.
2. Travel guide: the local insider's guide written by Beijing expats is a good one. Lonely Planet's Beijing too.
3. Chinese-English/ English-Chinese dictionaries (electronic or otherwise)
4. Chinese-English books, poems
Things you may need to find out more before buying:
1. Musical instruments (apparently there's some paperwork involved)
2. Knives and other traditional weapons (there are restrictions depending on where you buy them)
Random advice:
1. Remember the bus numbers when you get on one. Get a bus/subway card and be adventurous. I familiarized myself to different areas by riding on the bus with no particular destination in mind. I got on a bus and rode for several stops. Then, I got off the bus and walked the bus route, exploring all the shops and places in between.
2. Dab clear nail polish on all the buttons of cheap clothes you buy. This will help them stay on for longer :).
3. There's no return or exchange policy in the bargain areas. May not be able to try on clothing. Bring a tape measure if you're a serious shopper. I brought my fav pair of jeans and used it to measure. This worked well.
4. Cheap scarves sewn together make a good sleep sack.
Will update this page when other things come to mind.
1. Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer
2. Solid stick deodorant
3. Good shoes (Especially the larger sizes, women's size 8 is a little difficult to find)
4. Fabric stain remover (Spray Wash solid is a good one to bring)
5. Fabric deodorizer
6. 3X5 note cards (You could make your own)
7. Feminine hygiene stuff
8. Good thermal wear (Silk available in Beijing)
9. Dri-fit or Cool Max active wear (Sports bras included)
10. Hiking apparel & shoes
11. Your favorite candy (Bring it!)
12. Clothes for tall people :) (To give you an idea: I wear an PXS here in the USA, but had to get XL.)
13. Supplements and vitamins
14. Ear plugs
Things I didn't regret bringing so I had them immediately:
1. A good knife. I brought a Farberware parer and a peeler.
2. A set of silverware: knife, fork and spoon.
3. Multipurpose tool.
Things I regret not bringing:
1. A good can opener.
2. ... Still thinking ....
Things you should always have with you:
1. Kleenex or toilet paper
2. Hand sanitizer
3. Your own shopping bag
4. A camera
5. A sense of humor & adventure
Things you can get for cheap:
1. Socks (all materials and lengths)
2. Winter coats, scarves and gloves
3. Clothing & other accessories
4. Stationery
5. Umbrellas (get the UV-coated kind, makes a difference in the heat)
6. Clothing alteration (hem pants, repair seams etc.)
7. Gel insoles
8. Prescription glasses
9. Wet wipes
10. Blankets
11. China licensed DVDs and CDs (real and fakes)
12. Surface shipping China Post (All my stuff arrived, undamaged and it took 2 months China-USA. Bring your stuff unpacked and they will pack it for you. If you're planning to ship DVDs and CDs, make sure you save all the receipts and show it to the post office agent for customs clearance.)
Things you should get:
1. Local SIM card for your unlocked cell phone.
2. Travel guide: the local insider's guide written by Beijing expats is a good one. Lonely Planet's Beijing too.
3. Chinese-English/ English-Chinese dictionaries (electronic or otherwise)
4. Chinese-English books, poems
Things you may need to find out more before buying:
1. Musical instruments (apparently there's some paperwork involved)
2. Knives and other traditional weapons (there are restrictions depending on where you buy them)
Random advice:
1. Remember the bus numbers when you get on one. Get a bus/subway card and be adventurous. I familiarized myself to different areas by riding on the bus with no particular destination in mind. I got on a bus and rode for several stops. Then, I got off the bus and walked the bus route, exploring all the shops and places in between.
2. Dab clear nail polish on all the buttons of cheap clothes you buy. This will help them stay on for longer :).
3. There's no return or exchange policy in the bargain areas. May not be able to try on clothing. Bring a tape measure if you're a serious shopper. I brought my fav pair of jeans and used it to measure. This worked well.
4. Cheap scarves sewn together make a good sleep sack.
Will update this page when other things come to mind.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
A whim: ice-cream :)
Sitting in front of the computer all day editing my dissertation is not very exciting. I had mentioned on fb that housework has never been more appealing until I had to spend hours writing. Don't ask me what I did when I found out I had a meeting with my committee in less than 6 hrs at the end of April. My dissertation group laughed at my sense of humor and coping skills.
I had Almond Balls at the University Club last week with the dissertation support group and decided I'd make my own version. They used a chocolate shell for theirs but I wasn't in a mood for chocolate tonight so I did this instead.
1. 4 or 5 finely chopped almonds
2. a teaspoon of coconut flakes
3. 2/3 cup of vanilla ice-cream
4. Butterscotch topping to drizzle. (Or chocolate or caramel)
Chop almonds on cutting board and mix with coconut flakes.
Scoop ice-cream and roll on cutting board so that it is coated with the almond & coconut mixture. Put ice-cream into a bowl and drizzle butterscotch topping. Serve immediately. Enough for 1 person!
My other favorite dessert is mangoes over peach frozen yogurt. Top with whipped cream and a sprig of mint. :) I think sometime I would like to have a parfait bar for a party. Wouldn't that be fun? Hands off the berries, they are all mine!
I had Almond Balls at the University Club last week with the dissertation support group and decided I'd make my own version. They used a chocolate shell for theirs but I wasn't in a mood for chocolate tonight so I did this instead.
1. 4 or 5 finely chopped almonds
2. a teaspoon of coconut flakes
3. 2/3 cup of vanilla ice-cream
4. Butterscotch topping to drizzle. (Or chocolate or caramel)
Chop almonds on cutting board and mix with coconut flakes.
Scoop ice-cream and roll on cutting board so that it is coated with the almond & coconut mixture. Put ice-cream into a bowl and drizzle butterscotch topping. Serve immediately. Enough for 1 person!
My other favorite dessert is mangoes over peach frozen yogurt. Top with whipped cream and a sprig of mint. :) I think sometime I would like to have a parfait bar for a party. Wouldn't that be fun? Hands off the berries, they are all mine!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
The Official Unofficial Resume
AKA Jobs I have performed in the past besides my music stuff.
Agent/Arts Admin: I organize recitals and concerts in Malaysia & Singapore. I'm in the process of being a contact/liason for an upcoming tour for my former college. I think they will be going to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. I can only help with non-profit or educational trips. My fee: please pay my airfare.
Events Management: Details from venue to menu. I was involved in events planning from young as my dad was the national and SE-Asian president for a youth organization, the Boys' Brigade. Talk about fundraisers and protocol for VIPs and royalty! Hosting international guests from around the world made for a very interesting childhood. (I still remember the guests from Germany who came when I was 5-yrs old! I still have the necklace they left me.)
Tour Guide: I love to travel & read. I study maps and public transportation systems easily. It takes me about a week or less to familiarize myself with a new city. I have played tour guide in Malaysia (of course), Beijing, Singapore and New York, NY.
ESL Volunteer: Taught in China, Thailand, Malaysia. I speak good Chinglish and Manglish. I substitute taught for my parents, still do when I am home in the summer.
Test Administrator: I worked with the Success for All Foundation, a literacy program funded by the Dept. of Education. I worked in under-performing elementary schools in Wichita, KS and Eutaw, AL administering reading tests to students.
Counselor: Handling different student problems. I wish students would communicate with their instructors when they are in trouble instead of waiting until it's really late. I refer students to the appropriate services in the university like the Counseling Center, Dean of Students and SGA especially if $$ is involved.
Advisor: I do some informal academic advising. Friends and students ask me what classes to take to diversify their studies. Also, I provide some career guidance for students who aren't quite sure of what jobs are out there for their majors.
Research Asst.: I learned this - never walk into the library the night before a musicology exam when you're the musicology GTA. I get phone calls about how to research and what to research. Where do I find an article about this? Don't ask me about citation stuff :)
The "doctor": I had quite a few knocks on my door in China for medical stuff. I read enough about symptoms of common illnesses, so I know when they should head to the doctor or wait it out. I don't have my first aid certification yet but I have often been with people in accidents until real help arrives. It doesn't faze me to handle a crisis.
Shopper: Yes, my host mom here uses me as her personal shopper. She tells me what she is looking for and I find her the best deal. Makes her Christmas shopping very easy and it gives me my shopping therapy.
Drill instructor: Yes, I was the drill commander for 90+ girls for the 1st Kampar Girls' Brigade Company. Boy, I was strict as my friends recall. I was never guilty of not being heard in high school. I am quite soft spoken now.
Dancer: I have been involved in contra dance demonstrations at the Cowtown Museum, Wichita. I still contra dance regularly even though I am no longer the president of the Tuscaloosa Contradancers. Was in a swing dance performance last year.
Live-wire/Hostess: Of a party. Sometimes I am a live wire but usually I'm behind the scenes, serving guests and all. I enjoy being a hostess a lot. The most recent one: the Clarks' farewell party.
Florist: I will make floral arrangements only when my mom is not around. I do bouquets and some table arrangements. I helped my sis with her wedding flowers and will likely do my own when it happens.
Photographer: One of my dreams is to own a D-SLR camera. If I'm not playing hostess at a party, I love taking pictures. I have a great album of our Halloween in Beijing when I played the role of the paparazzi. I like to take photos of sunsets, nature and scenery. One of my photos of a Beijing hutong was a finalist in a competition recently.
Problem solver: Do I have an "ASK ME" button? FAQs include: Can you come fix the projector? Why is the projector not working? What cables do I need? Where can I find ...? What do I do with ...?
Seamstress: I hemmed another piano major's recital dress in my studio.
Pet-sitter: I do well with cats and dogs. Fish & birds ok, no reptiles.
House-sitter: I will keep your home so secure I might lock myself out. It happened once, much to my embarrassment.
Baby-sitter: Have done it once or twice for my classmate's 2-yr-old. I brought bubbles and play dough. We had fun! (My mom runs a kindergarten. (200+ kids a day) X (17 yrs)... need I explain? I like children, just not that many.)
Mechanic: I helped a free-lance mechanic fix my car. I know my GLOJET mobile pretty well. I usually can diagnose my own car but still take it to a real mechanic to confirm.
This was fun to blog.. I may remember others and will add to the list.
Agent/Arts Admin: I organize recitals and concerts in Malaysia & Singapore. I'm in the process of being a contact/liason for an upcoming tour for my former college. I think they will be going to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. I can only help with non-profit or educational trips. My fee: please pay my airfare.
Events Management: Details from venue to menu. I was involved in events planning from young as my dad was the national and SE-Asian president for a youth organization, the Boys' Brigade. Talk about fundraisers and protocol for VIPs and royalty! Hosting international guests from around the world made for a very interesting childhood. (I still remember the guests from Germany who came when I was 5-yrs old! I still have the necklace they left me.)
Tour Guide: I love to travel & read. I study maps and public transportation systems easily. It takes me about a week or less to familiarize myself with a new city. I have played tour guide in Malaysia (of course), Beijing, Singapore and New York, NY.
ESL Volunteer: Taught in China, Thailand, Malaysia. I speak good Chinglish and Manglish. I substitute taught for my parents, still do when I am home in the summer.
Test Administrator: I worked with the Success for All Foundation, a literacy program funded by the Dept. of Education. I worked in under-performing elementary schools in Wichita, KS and Eutaw, AL administering reading tests to students.
Counselor: Handling different student problems. I wish students would communicate with their instructors when they are in trouble instead of waiting until it's really late. I refer students to the appropriate services in the university like the Counseling Center, Dean of Students and SGA especially if $$ is involved.
Advisor: I do some informal academic advising. Friends and students ask me what classes to take to diversify their studies. Also, I provide some career guidance for students who aren't quite sure of what jobs are out there for their majors.
Research Asst.: I learned this - never walk into the library the night before a musicology exam when you're the musicology GTA. I get phone calls about how to research and what to research. Where do I find an article about this? Don't ask me about citation stuff :)
The "doctor": I had quite a few knocks on my door in China for medical stuff. I read enough about symptoms of common illnesses, so I know when they should head to the doctor or wait it out. I don't have my first aid certification yet but I have often been with people in accidents until real help arrives. It doesn't faze me to handle a crisis.
Shopper: Yes, my host mom here uses me as her personal shopper. She tells me what she is looking for and I find her the best deal. Makes her Christmas shopping very easy and it gives me my shopping therapy.
Drill instructor: Yes, I was the drill commander for 90+ girls for the 1st Kampar Girls' Brigade Company. Boy, I was strict as my friends recall. I was never guilty of not being heard in high school. I am quite soft spoken now.
Dancer: I have been involved in contra dance demonstrations at the Cowtown Museum, Wichita. I still contra dance regularly even though I am no longer the president of the Tuscaloosa Contradancers. Was in a swing dance performance last year.
Live-wire/Hostess: Of a party. Sometimes I am a live wire but usually I'm behind the scenes, serving guests and all. I enjoy being a hostess a lot. The most recent one: the Clarks' farewell party.
Florist: I will make floral arrangements only when my mom is not around. I do bouquets and some table arrangements. I helped my sis with her wedding flowers and will likely do my own when it happens.
Photographer: One of my dreams is to own a D-SLR camera. If I'm not playing hostess at a party, I love taking pictures. I have a great album of our Halloween in Beijing when I played the role of the paparazzi. I like to take photos of sunsets, nature and scenery. One of my photos of a Beijing hutong was a finalist in a competition recently.
Problem solver: Do I have an "ASK ME" button? FAQs include: Can you come fix the projector? Why is the projector not working? What cables do I need? Where can I find ...? What do I do with ...?
Seamstress: I hemmed another piano major's recital dress in my studio.
Pet-sitter: I do well with cats and dogs. Fish & birds ok, no reptiles.
House-sitter: I will keep your home so secure I might lock myself out. It happened once, much to my embarrassment.
Baby-sitter: Have done it once or twice for my classmate's 2-yr-old. I brought bubbles and play dough. We had fun! (My mom runs a kindergarten. (200+ kids a day) X (17 yrs)... need I explain? I like children, just not that many.)
Mechanic: I helped a free-lance mechanic fix my car. I know my GLOJET mobile pretty well. I usually can diagnose my own car but still take it to a real mechanic to confirm.
This was fun to blog.. I may remember others and will add to the list.
Summer Camps 2009
Here are some summer camps which I am really interested in attending BUT I spent all my money on China last year. So if you feel sponsoring a poor international graduate student or have possibilities for a job, please leave a comment. The next thing I'm learning to do is fix a car. Jill of all trades, master of several!
Barbara Lister-Sink, Author of "Freeing the Caged Bird"
Intensive Workshop, June 22-27, 2009. Salem College, NC.
This would be good for anyone who is open to exploring bio-mechanics and ergonomic piano playing techniques. Barbara is a bundle of energy and has a great personality. I appreciate her down-to-earth approach and her teacher's heart. After a quick session with Barbara, I noticed one thing about my playing and she noticed plenty. I changed my sitting posture slightly and have reduced neck/shoulder tension. I am a little more coordinated but I have a long way to go. Her brief workshop at UA reminded me of my years in Kansas when my teachers were focused on injury prevention and better technique for me. Now that I don't have any injuries or maladies, I would love to fully explore my potential at the piano without recital requirements hanging over me.
Malcolm Bilson, David Breitman and Andrew Willis
"Knowing the Score", Summer Fortepiano Workshop August 9-15, 2009. Cornell University.
Another one of my favorite topics is historical performance.
I have not had the chance to explore this too much in the past couple years, because I've been buried in my dissertation research. I have been "Bilsonized" (an example of the American process of verbification) as I have followed some of his work, conference presentations and such. I have met these three wonderful people in person so I would highly recommend this workshop. If all I get to do is see the range of fortepianos they are going to have, I'll be satisfied. I don't think I want to play or perform but just be in the presence of great scholars & performers. I am reminded again of my college years when I had to do research into performance practice and review different recordings, different score editions and produce a written journal on my findings. (Did I become lazier in my DMA?). So if you don't know the difference between fortepianos and the modern piano, and want to find out about notation practices, be there. No excuses!
Barbara Lister-Sink, Author of "Freeing the Caged Bird"
Intensive Workshop, June 22-27, 2009. Salem College, NC.
This would be good for anyone who is open to exploring bio-mechanics and ergonomic piano playing techniques. Barbara is a bundle of energy and has a great personality. I appreciate her down-to-earth approach and her teacher's heart. After a quick session with Barbara, I noticed one thing about my playing and she noticed plenty. I changed my sitting posture slightly and have reduced neck/shoulder tension. I am a little more coordinated but I have a long way to go. Her brief workshop at UA reminded me of my years in Kansas when my teachers were focused on injury prevention and better technique for me. Now that I don't have any injuries or maladies, I would love to fully explore my potential at the piano without recital requirements hanging over me.
Malcolm Bilson, David Breitman and Andrew Willis
"Knowing the Score", Summer Fortepiano Workshop August 9-15, 2009. Cornell University.
Another one of my favorite topics is historical performance.
I have not had the chance to explore this too much in the past couple years, because I've been buried in my dissertation research. I have been "Bilsonized" (an example of the American process of verbification) as I have followed some of his work, conference presentations and such. I have met these three wonderful people in person so I would highly recommend this workshop. If all I get to do is see the range of fortepianos they are going to have, I'll be satisfied. I don't think I want to play or perform but just be in the presence of great scholars & performers. I am reminded again of my college years when I had to do research into performance practice and review different recordings, different score editions and produce a written journal on my findings. (Did I become lazier in my DMA?). So if you don't know the difference between fortepianos and the modern piano, and want to find out about notation practices, be there. No excuses!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
SC Graduate to Perform Doctoral Recital
Gloria Tham, a 2002 Southwestern College graduate, is returning Monday, April 13, to present her third and final doctoral recital titled “Chinoiserie at the Piano.” The recital will be in Messenger Auditorium in Darbeth Fine Arts Center and there is no admission charge.
The recital will trace the history of the piano in China and relate to current events concerning China. The recital is an eclectic mix of miniatures, Western and Chinese-themed pieces ranging from the standard composers of Beethoven, Schumann, and Chopin to Lin Yuepei, a Hong Kong composer. There will also be a display of concert programs, playbills, and scores collected by Tham when she was in Beijing last fall.
Born in Kampar, Malaysia, Tham started piano lessons at age five. She graduated summa cum laude from Southwestern College with a degree in piano performance. Her teacher was Timothy Shook, chair of the division of performing arts at SC. Following a year of graduate work at Kansas State University as a student of Virginia Houser, Tham transferred to Wichita State University. She finished her master of music degree in piano performance, studying under Andrew Trechak, in 2005. She taught class piano and applied piano at Wichita State. Besides being an active performer, Tham was also involved in music ministry, accompanying, teaching, and adjudicating.
“At age 18, Gloria came halfway around the world to Southwestern College,” Shook says. “She had such a fear of performing back then. It is magnificent to see how she has grown.”
Currently, she is a doctoral candidate in piano performance at the University of Alabama, studying with Noel Engebretson. She teaches music appreciation and music in world cultures, and maintains a private teaching studio. She is writing her dissertation on the influence of socialist realism in Chinese piano music during the Cultural Revolution under Chinese history professor, Anthony E. Clark. She expects to graduate in June this year.
For more information about the recital, call (620) 229-6272.
The recital will trace the history of the piano in China and relate to current events concerning China. The recital is an eclectic mix of miniatures, Western and Chinese-themed pieces ranging from the standard composers of Beethoven, Schumann, and Chopin to Lin Yuepei, a Hong Kong composer. There will also be a display of concert programs, playbills, and scores collected by Tham when she was in Beijing last fall.
Born in Kampar, Malaysia, Tham started piano lessons at age five. She graduated summa cum laude from Southwestern College with a degree in piano performance. Her teacher was Timothy Shook, chair of the division of performing arts at SC. Following a year of graduate work at Kansas State University as a student of Virginia Houser, Tham transferred to Wichita State University. She finished her master of music degree in piano performance, studying under Andrew Trechak, in 2005. She taught class piano and applied piano at Wichita State. Besides being an active performer, Tham was also involved in music ministry, accompanying, teaching, and adjudicating.
“At age 18, Gloria came halfway around the world to Southwestern College,” Shook says. “She had such a fear of performing back then. It is magnificent to see how she has grown.”
Currently, she is a doctoral candidate in piano performance at the University of Alabama, studying with Noel Engebretson. She teaches music appreciation and music in world cultures, and maintains a private teaching studio. She is writing her dissertation on the influence of socialist realism in Chinese piano music during the Cultural Revolution under Chinese history professor, Anthony E. Clark. She expects to graduate in June this year.
For more information about the recital, call (620) 229-6272.
Asia Interest Week at UA Presents Film, Music and Scholarship
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Films, lectures and cultural programs highlight Asia Interest Week at The University of Alabama.
This series of six events, stretching from Saturday, March 28, to Tuesday, April 7, celebrates the diversity of Asia and Asian Studies scholarship at UA.
Matsuri at the Mall kicks off the events from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28, with a range of performances from Japanese drumming and dance to Japanese swordsmanship at the Center Court of McFarland Mall. This annual celebration concludes the Sakura Festival and is sponsored by UA’s Capstone International Center.
“Master Killer (36th Chamber),” a critically acclaimed Kung Fu film about the famed Shaolin temple, will be shown at 6 p.m. Monday, March 30, in 205 Gorgas Library. Dr. Anthony Clark, assistant professor of history, will introduce the film with a discussion of martial arts in China. The history department has assisted with this event.
“Hindu God or Muslim Saint? Creating a Public Identity with a Contested Figure in India,” a public lecture by Dr. Steven Ramey, assistant professor in the department of religious studies, will be presented at 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, in Smith Hall 205.
Ramey will highlight Jhule Lal, a god whom Sindhi Hindus credit with saving their ancestors in Sindh (now in Pakistan). Sindhi Muslims, however, recognize him as a Sufi master. Ramey will use this example to analyze the ways Jhule Lal’s contested identity intersects with Sindhi Hindu efforts in India to maintain a collective identity outside of Sindh. This lecture is a part of the “Religion in Culture” series of the religious studies department.
“Kundun,” the Martin Scorsese film depicting the story of the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, will be shown at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 2, in Alston Hall, room 30. Dr. Amy Holmes-Tagchungdarpa, an assistant professor of history who specializes in Tibetan history, will give introductory remarks before the viewing of the film.
Combining pieces of Chinese and Western music, Gloria Tham, a doctoral candidate in the UA School of Music, will present “Chinoiserie at the Piano,” her doctoral recital, at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 4, in Moody Music Building.
A photographic exhibition featuring images taken during the UA in China Study Abroad Program will open with a talk at 5 p.m. Tuesday April 7, in the Ferguson Center. This event will feature students who spent the Fall 2008 semester in China and is presented by Crossroads Community Center.
All events are free and open to the public. The Chinese Culture Club organized Asia Interest Week with assistance from Creative Campus, Crossroads Community Center, the Asia Studies Program, the department of history, the department of religious studies, and the Student Government Association.
This series of six events, stretching from Saturday, March 28, to Tuesday, April 7, celebrates the diversity of Asia and Asian Studies scholarship at UA.
Matsuri at the Mall kicks off the events from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28, with a range of performances from Japanese drumming and dance to Japanese swordsmanship at the Center Court of McFarland Mall. This annual celebration concludes the Sakura Festival and is sponsored by UA’s Capstone International Center.
“Master Killer (36th Chamber),” a critically acclaimed Kung Fu film about the famed Shaolin temple, will be shown at 6 p.m. Monday, March 30, in 205 Gorgas Library. Dr. Anthony Clark, assistant professor of history, will introduce the film with a discussion of martial arts in China. The history department has assisted with this event.
“Hindu God or Muslim Saint? Creating a Public Identity with a Contested Figure in India,” a public lecture by Dr. Steven Ramey, assistant professor in the department of religious studies, will be presented at 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, in Smith Hall 205.
Ramey will highlight Jhule Lal, a god whom Sindhi Hindus credit with saving their ancestors in Sindh (now in Pakistan). Sindhi Muslims, however, recognize him as a Sufi master. Ramey will use this example to analyze the ways Jhule Lal’s contested identity intersects with Sindhi Hindu efforts in India to maintain a collective identity outside of Sindh. This lecture is a part of the “Religion in Culture” series of the religious studies department.
“Kundun,” the Martin Scorsese film depicting the story of the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, will be shown at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 2, in Alston Hall, room 30. Dr. Amy Holmes-Tagchungdarpa, an assistant professor of history who specializes in Tibetan history, will give introductory remarks before the viewing of the film.
Combining pieces of Chinese and Western music, Gloria Tham, a doctoral candidate in the UA School of Music, will present “Chinoiserie at the Piano,” her doctoral recital, at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 4, in Moody Music Building.
A photographic exhibition featuring images taken during the UA in China Study Abroad Program will open with a talk at 5 p.m. Tuesday April 7, in the Ferguson Center. This event will feature students who spent the Fall 2008 semester in China and is presented by Crossroads Community Center.
All events are free and open to the public. The Chinese Culture Club organized Asia Interest Week with assistance from Creative Campus, Crossroads Community Center, the Asia Studies Program, the department of history, the department of religious studies, and the Student Government Association.
Asian Interest Week
Chinese Culture Club to present Asian Interest Week
Jessie Gable
Staff Reporter, Crimson White (University of Alabama)
Published: Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Updated: Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Due to a growing interest in Chinese culture by the students at the University, the Chinese Culture Club has decided to host the first Asian Interest Week from March 28 through April 7 on the UA campus and several nearby locations. All events are open to all UA students and the public. The week will showcase cultural events from China, Japan, Tibet and India.
Susan Gorin, a junior majoring in history and president of the Chinese Culture Club at the University, came up with the idea for Asian Interest Week after studying abroad in Beijing in 2008. Crossroads Community Center, Creative Campus, SGA, Steven Ramey of Religious Studies, Gloria Tham of the Music School and. Anthony Clark of the history department will also be contributing to the events of the week, Gorin said.
The number of students enrolled in Asian language and culture classes at the University and the number of students interested in the UA study abroad program in China has grown to the point where additional majors and minors are being considered.
“This semester, 70 students are enrolled in Chinese, 94 in Japanese, 15 in Korean, and seven in Thai,” Gorin said. “There are also numerous classes offered throughout the year on Chinese and Tibetan History, Japanese film and literature, Chinese art and Asian religions. In fact, there are so many classes pertaining to Asia that Dr. Steven Ramey of the religious studies department is in the process of establishing an Asian studies minor.”
In addition, the number of Asian exchange students at the University continues to grow.
Gorin said after her study abroad, she realized just how much help students need getting acquainted with the United States and the UA campus.
“When I lived in Beijing, all the students at my university went out of their way to help me get adjusted. I just want UA students to show the same initiative,” Gorin said.
Katie Barzler, a senior majoring in journalism and minoring in Chinese, said Asian Interest Week will be a good opportunity to bring a little piece of Asian culture to the students at the University.
“If you see a lecture that sounds interesting, go to it. You have nothing to lose. In a way, it’s just bringing a little piece of their culture here,” Barzler said.
The first event will be the Sakura Festival of “Matsuri in the Mall” to be held at McFarland Mall in the center court from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 28. The festival will include different Japanese cultural exhibits and performances.
On Monday, March 30 at 6 p.m., Anthony Clark, history professor at the University, will be presenting the film, “Master Killer: 36th Chamber” and a lecture following the movie. This will be shown in 205 Amelia Gayle Gorgas Library.
‘“Master Killer: 36th Chamber’ is considered by many to be the greatest Kung Fu cult film ever produced,” Gorin said. “This 1978 movie about the famed Shaolin Temple was produced by the Shaw Brothers tycoon, Sir Run Shaw, at his Hong Kong studios, and is set during the fall of the Ming dynasty. One critic said that Master Killer contains ‘the most exciting training sequences ever committed to film.”’
On April 2, the Chinese Culture Club will continue Asian Interest Week by presenting a lecture titled “Hindu God or Muslim Saint? Creating a Public Identity with a Contested Figure in India” at 3 p.m. in 205 Smith Hall. Ramey has researched contemporary Sindhi Hindus and other communities whose stories and practices do not fit the standard definitions of Hinduism, Gorin said.
On April 2 at 7 p.m., the club will be showing the film “Kundun,” directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the life and writings of the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet.
Then, on April 4, Gloria Tham will be presenting a piano recital, “Chinoiserie at the Piano,” at 2 p.m. at the Moody Music Building.
The last event will take place on April 7 when Crossroads Community Center presents the UA in China Photography Exhibit and talk. This event will take place in 232 Ferguson Center at 5 p.m. and will show photos from some of the 21 students who traveled abroad to China in the fall 2008.
Jessie Gable
Staff Reporter, Crimson White (University of Alabama)
Published: Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Updated: Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Due to a growing interest in Chinese culture by the students at the University, the Chinese Culture Club has decided to host the first Asian Interest Week from March 28 through April 7 on the UA campus and several nearby locations. All events are open to all UA students and the public. The week will showcase cultural events from China, Japan, Tibet and India.
Susan Gorin, a junior majoring in history and president of the Chinese Culture Club at the University, came up with the idea for Asian Interest Week after studying abroad in Beijing in 2008. Crossroads Community Center, Creative Campus, SGA, Steven Ramey of Religious Studies, Gloria Tham of the Music School and. Anthony Clark of the history department will also be contributing to the events of the week, Gorin said.
The number of students enrolled in Asian language and culture classes at the University and the number of students interested in the UA study abroad program in China has grown to the point where additional majors and minors are being considered.
“This semester, 70 students are enrolled in Chinese, 94 in Japanese, 15 in Korean, and seven in Thai,” Gorin said. “There are also numerous classes offered throughout the year on Chinese and Tibetan History, Japanese film and literature, Chinese art and Asian religions. In fact, there are so many classes pertaining to Asia that Dr. Steven Ramey of the religious studies department is in the process of establishing an Asian studies minor.”
In addition, the number of Asian exchange students at the University continues to grow.
Gorin said after her study abroad, she realized just how much help students need getting acquainted with the United States and the UA campus.
“When I lived in Beijing, all the students at my university went out of their way to help me get adjusted. I just want UA students to show the same initiative,” Gorin said.
Katie Barzler, a senior majoring in journalism and minoring in Chinese, said Asian Interest Week will be a good opportunity to bring a little piece of Asian culture to the students at the University.
“If you see a lecture that sounds interesting, go to it. You have nothing to lose. In a way, it’s just bringing a little piece of their culture here,” Barzler said.
The first event will be the Sakura Festival of “Matsuri in the Mall” to be held at McFarland Mall in the center court from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 28. The festival will include different Japanese cultural exhibits and performances.
On Monday, March 30 at 6 p.m., Anthony Clark, history professor at the University, will be presenting the film, “Master Killer: 36th Chamber” and a lecture following the movie. This will be shown in 205 Amelia Gayle Gorgas Library.
‘“Master Killer: 36th Chamber’ is considered by many to be the greatest Kung Fu cult film ever produced,” Gorin said. “This 1978 movie about the famed Shaolin Temple was produced by the Shaw Brothers tycoon, Sir Run Shaw, at his Hong Kong studios, and is set during the fall of the Ming dynasty. One critic said that Master Killer contains ‘the most exciting training sequences ever committed to film.”’
On April 2, the Chinese Culture Club will continue Asian Interest Week by presenting a lecture titled “Hindu God or Muslim Saint? Creating a Public Identity with a Contested Figure in India” at 3 p.m. in 205 Smith Hall. Ramey has researched contemporary Sindhi Hindus and other communities whose stories and practices do not fit the standard definitions of Hinduism, Gorin said.
On April 2 at 7 p.m., the club will be showing the film “Kundun,” directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the life and writings of the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet.
Then, on April 4, Gloria Tham will be presenting a piano recital, “Chinoiserie at the Piano,” at 2 p.m. at the Moody Music Building.
The last event will take place on April 7 when Crossroads Community Center presents the UA in China Photography Exhibit and talk. This event will take place in 232 Ferguson Center at 5 p.m. and will show photos from some of the 21 students who traveled abroad to China in the fall 2008.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Last DMA recital
I finished playing my last DMA recital a couple weeks ago. It is rather surreal that it is over because I didn't feel like I was prepared for this series. I did not manage to have full practice recitals prior to the official recital on April 4. On top of that, I fell pretty sick with a bad cold and cough five days before the recital. I was thankful it wasn't the flu or tonsillitis but I was taking a good cocktail of drugs to get me through the week.
I had planned a rather ambitious program for the recital. Here is the order of my program:
Lin Yue Pei, Kang Ding Love Song
Antonio Soler, Sonata in E minor and Sonata in G major
Beethoven, Sonata in E minor, op. 90
Chopin, Barcarolle op. 60
Grainger, Beautiful Fresh Flower
Tcherepnin, "Chant" from Five Chinese Concert Etudes, op. 52
Schumann, Papillons, op. 2
Stephen Hough/Deng Yu-Sian, Pining for the Spring Breeze
Arensky, Etude on a Chinese Theme, op. 25 no. 3
April 4 did roll around and it was the first afternoon recital I had played. I felt like abandoning my own recital and crawling back into bed. I'm not sure whether this was due to being sick, having a hangover from the cough medicine or not feeling ready. I really did not want to be in the spotlight that afternoon. I had planned the recital fairly meticulously - posters, flowers (stage and foyer), program & notes, display (foyer), reception venue and menu, dress and everything. I had friends who helped and sponsors for the reception. I could feel the effects of the drugs as I felt my brain was not as alert. I just played the recital for me, if not for anyone else and just told myself "you can do this, one piece at a time". I am pleased with the recital, mistakes and all. When I walked out after the last piece, I said to myself, "It's over, it is finally over".
I played at Southwestern College in Winfield Kansas on April 13. I had a great time playing for my Winfield family although I was fairly worn out from writing my document. Never write a document/dissertation and play a recital at the same time. I was an introvert that evening, and again just played for me. I noticed the hall was dead silent and I knew I had their attention. It's easy and difficult to play at SC. They've heard me since my junior recital, so I better have improved or bring something new to the table each time. I think I played with better control, tone production and expressivity, but I will need to review the video and see.
I learned a lot from the recitals, maybe not really about piano playing as much as I learned about myself. I love performing now and have overcome my fear of being on stage. My perfectionism is surrendered and I am comfortable with my shortcomings. There is and always will be room for improvement. There is and always will be someone who plays better (and there are many out there!). I am just called to be a good steward of the measure which has been given to me, no more and no less.
With that said, I'm disappearing from the stage for some time. I may take the opportunity to retrain and fix some of my basic problems. It would alleviate the frustration I have had at the piano and allow me to reassess my piano playing. Don't worry, I'll keep playing at home!
I had planned a rather ambitious program for the recital. Here is the order of my program:
Lin Yue Pei, Kang Ding Love Song
Antonio Soler, Sonata in E minor and Sonata in G major
Beethoven, Sonata in E minor, op. 90
Chopin, Barcarolle op. 60
Grainger, Beautiful Fresh Flower
Tcherepnin, "Chant" from Five Chinese Concert Etudes, op. 52
Schumann, Papillons, op. 2
Stephen Hough/Deng Yu-Sian, Pining for the Spring Breeze
Arensky, Etude on a Chinese Theme, op. 25 no. 3
April 4 did roll around and it was the first afternoon recital I had played. I felt like abandoning my own recital and crawling back into bed. I'm not sure whether this was due to being sick, having a hangover from the cough medicine or not feeling ready. I really did not want to be in the spotlight that afternoon. I had planned the recital fairly meticulously - posters, flowers (stage and foyer), program & notes, display (foyer), reception venue and menu, dress and everything. I had friends who helped and sponsors for the reception. I could feel the effects of the drugs as I felt my brain was not as alert. I just played the recital for me, if not for anyone else and just told myself "you can do this, one piece at a time". I am pleased with the recital, mistakes and all. When I walked out after the last piece, I said to myself, "It's over, it is finally over".
I played at Southwestern College in Winfield Kansas on April 13. I had a great time playing for my Winfield family although I was fairly worn out from writing my document. Never write a document/dissertation and play a recital at the same time. I was an introvert that evening, and again just played for me. I noticed the hall was dead silent and I knew I had their attention. It's easy and difficult to play at SC. They've heard me since my junior recital, so I better have improved or bring something new to the table each time. I think I played with better control, tone production and expressivity, but I will need to review the video and see.
I learned a lot from the recitals, maybe not really about piano playing as much as I learned about myself. I love performing now and have overcome my fear of being on stage. My perfectionism is surrendered and I am comfortable with my shortcomings. There is and always will be room for improvement. There is and always will be someone who plays better (and there are many out there!). I am just called to be a good steward of the measure which has been given to me, no more and no less.
With that said, I'm disappearing from the stage for some time. I may take the opportunity to retrain and fix some of my basic problems. It would alleviate the frustration I have had at the piano and allow me to reassess my piano playing. Don't worry, I'll keep playing at home!
Friday, April 24, 2009
Summer Plans 2009
Things I look forward to when I finish everything at UA:
1. Job applications: Quite a few decisions to make on what career path I would like to take. I'm looking for a job combining music, cultural studies or Chinese studies. Very few can claim to have lived in and taught the Hokey Pokey to two remote villages in China!
2. Read: I'm more interested in non-fiction so I will probably keep reading books on Chinese history and Beethoven. Maybe I'll start some work on tracing Beethoven in Chinese music history?
3. Piano: I want to attend Barbara Lister-Sink's workshop but that depends a lot on $$ and transportation. I'm toying with the idea of playing through more Beethoven stuff or I'll return to Bach.
4. Chinese: I have all my Chinese textbooks with me and I can't wait to dig into them again. I will continue translating Madame Mao's speeches and possibly prepare them for publication. I have several Chinese versions of English texts I would like to start working on like the "History of Western Music" Palisca-Grout and the bible.
5. Car: Yes, it's time to let go of my car or I can attempt to fix it again on my own with a friend's help. Distributor cap, I officially dislike you! Where's the lifetime warranty? I'm getting around in a borrowed vehicle these few weeks (or months).
6. Beading: I'm thinking of expanding jewelry making to beading embroidery. I'm a little concerned as the last time I did such intricate work, I inflamed a nerve in my right wrist. No permanent effects, but it sure hurt! I long to work on stained glass again.
7. Dance as much as I can.
8. Secret! You'll find out when it happens.
1. Job applications: Quite a few decisions to make on what career path I would like to take. I'm looking for a job combining music, cultural studies or Chinese studies. Very few can claim to have lived in and taught the Hokey Pokey to two remote villages in China!
2. Read: I'm more interested in non-fiction so I will probably keep reading books on Chinese history and Beethoven. Maybe I'll start some work on tracing Beethoven in Chinese music history?
3. Piano: I want to attend Barbara Lister-Sink's workshop but that depends a lot on $$ and transportation. I'm toying with the idea of playing through more Beethoven stuff or I'll return to Bach.
4. Chinese: I have all my Chinese textbooks with me and I can't wait to dig into them again. I will continue translating Madame Mao's speeches and possibly prepare them for publication. I have several Chinese versions of English texts I would like to start working on like the "History of Western Music" Palisca-Grout and the bible.
5. Car: Yes, it's time to let go of my car or I can attempt to fix it again on my own with a friend's help. Distributor cap, I officially dislike you! Where's the lifetime warranty? I'm getting around in a borrowed vehicle these few weeks (or months).
6. Beading: I'm thinking of expanding jewelry making to beading embroidery. I'm a little concerned as the last time I did such intricate work, I inflamed a nerve in my right wrist. No permanent effects, but it sure hurt! I long to work on stained glass again.
7. Dance as much as I can.
8. Secret! You'll find out when it happens.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
DMA: The most important thing I learned
It hit me about twenty minutes ago. I think the extrovert in me is back in full. I've been an introvert for all eleven years of higher ed. My DMA taught me that I am not an introvert! Priceless, right?
Earlier this evening, I danced on the Quad alone, while others watched. Never did that before in my life! I have never hated being at home, in front of my computer all day than these few weeks. Tonight is tough for the extrovert in me. There's ballroom and salsa dancing on the Quad. My China gang is out for dinner and more dancing at El Rincon. What do I have to do? Edit the document so the "first" draft can be submitted tomorrow. I would prefer planning tomorrow's guest lecture on Cultural Revolution art and music for HY 504. That is way more exciting.
Yes, I found out about more red tape than I wish to care about concerning committee meetings and the like. Duh, I should have known there must be a meeting for the first draft but nobody said anything and it isn't posted anywhere. I wish the School of Music had its own checklist for graduate students writing documents. I found out more about the process through the women's support group I'm in. (Yes, I joined a support group and it's been very informational. No one has been emotional or just complaining. We share all the information we have about research, shortcuts, computers and the like. I heard some guys want to join us but they should start their own.)
It's almost done. Two more weeks of this and I'll put my dance shoes back on!
The answer to your question about what I am going to do next? I'll exaggerate on what I said on my master's commencement since this is the doctorate: I join the ranks of the unemployed, but I have an even brighter future!! (Now I should print that on t-shirts and sell it at commencement ceremonies come May. Could make a buck or two *wink*)
Earlier this evening, I danced on the Quad alone, while others watched. Never did that before in my life! I have never hated being at home, in front of my computer all day than these few weeks. Tonight is tough for the extrovert in me. There's ballroom and salsa dancing on the Quad. My China gang is out for dinner and more dancing at El Rincon. What do I have to do? Edit the document so the "first" draft can be submitted tomorrow. I would prefer planning tomorrow's guest lecture on Cultural Revolution art and music for HY 504. That is way more exciting.
Yes, I found out about more red tape than I wish to care about concerning committee meetings and the like. Duh, I should have known there must be a meeting for the first draft but nobody said anything and it isn't posted anywhere. I wish the School of Music had its own checklist for graduate students writing documents. I found out more about the process through the women's support group I'm in. (Yes, I joined a support group and it's been very informational. No one has been emotional or just complaining. We share all the information we have about research, shortcuts, computers and the like. I heard some guys want to join us but they should start their own.)
It's almost done. Two more weeks of this and I'll put my dance shoes back on!
The answer to your question about what I am going to do next? I'll exaggerate on what I said on my master's commencement since this is the doctorate: I join the ranks of the unemployed, but I have an even brighter future!! (Now I should print that on t-shirts and sell it at commencement ceremonies come May. Could make a buck or two *wink*)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Back in the USA
Yes, I've been silent for a long while on the blog. Doesn't mean that nothing is happening in my exciting life. In short, my last two weeks in Beijing were great. I managed to get copies of all the scores I needed, shipped about 40 lbs of books back to the USA and managed to get home in one piece. I came down with the most awful cold before leaving Beijing and was sick through Christmas. I had to pay around 1000 yuan for my excess baggage and I just did it. There was a little surprise on my flight home, as I was upgraded to business class because the flight was overbooked. I guess the money I spent was well-worth it.
I'm working 25% of what I used to last year. I teach "Music in World Cultures" and one private piano student. It is nice to have some time to myself and I am still keeping very busy, but this time on my own terms. I am practicing for my upcoming recital and writing my dissertation. Today the one month countdown to my recital starts. I have just finished the poster and program notes for the recital. Next would be the invitation cards.
I will play the recital on Qing Ming festival. This will be my final doctoral recital and will be part of Asia Interest Week activities. The recital will be featuring some Chinese pieces and will relate music to the history of China. I have five settings of Chinese folksongs, three in miniature forms and the other two in concert etude style. There will be a display in the lobby of scores and concert programs I brought back from Beijing. A photo exhibit preview will be held. A reception will follow the recital, provided by Creative Campus. I'm thankful for all the assistance, because I cannot afford all this this semester.
I am juggling preparing for job applications at the same time while this is going on. I am a little surprised that there is little career guidance or counseling in music schools. I'm wading through the process myself, very likely making mistakes but it's live and learn. There's always something new to find out.
The most exciting thing now is having a new set of friends - my China gang! I've been to the student center more often in the past couple weeks than I have the whole three years. :) I'm still actively dancing with the contra group here and in Birmingham. I may be giving the ballroom club a miss now and then. I've discovered, I just like to waltz and contra. I like the other dances too, but going to ballroom without a partner is a waste of time (I feel) because if I go to a dance, I expect to dance. If I'm not dancing, I'd rather be doing something more productive like practicing, reading or writing. Sleep is getting to be a precious commodity, much harder than the economy in my books.
Alright, back to the 88 keys for now....
I'm working 25% of what I used to last year. I teach "Music in World Cultures" and one private piano student. It is nice to have some time to myself and I am still keeping very busy, but this time on my own terms. I am practicing for my upcoming recital and writing my dissertation. Today the one month countdown to my recital starts. I have just finished the poster and program notes for the recital. Next would be the invitation cards.
I will play the recital on Qing Ming festival. This will be my final doctoral recital and will be part of Asia Interest Week activities. The recital will be featuring some Chinese pieces and will relate music to the history of China. I have five settings of Chinese folksongs, three in miniature forms and the other two in concert etude style. There will be a display in the lobby of scores and concert programs I brought back from Beijing. A photo exhibit preview will be held. A reception will follow the recital, provided by Creative Campus. I'm thankful for all the assistance, because I cannot afford all this this semester.
I am juggling preparing for job applications at the same time while this is going on. I am a little surprised that there is little career guidance or counseling in music schools. I'm wading through the process myself, very likely making mistakes but it's live and learn. There's always something new to find out.
The most exciting thing now is having a new set of friends - my China gang! I've been to the student center more often in the past couple weeks than I have the whole three years. :) I'm still actively dancing with the contra group here and in Birmingham. I may be giving the ballroom club a miss now and then. I've discovered, I just like to waltz and contra. I like the other dances too, but going to ballroom without a partner is a waste of time (I feel) because if I go to a dance, I expect to dance. If I'm not dancing, I'd rather be doing something more productive like practicing, reading or writing. Sleep is getting to be a precious commodity, much harder than the economy in my books.
Alright, back to the 88 keys for now....
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