The past two months have been full of traveling, auditioning, visiting, ups and downs. In January, I flew to Berlin for an audition, took a bus from Berlin to Munich for another audition, and took the train back to Vienna. I hiked in the snow-covered mountains of Austria with Harald and the boys. In February, I flew from Vienna to Chicago, took the Megabus through the snow to Indianapolis, and drove to Bloomington, Indiana, where I stayed for two weeks.
Being back in Bloomington was just what I needed. Not only was it incredible to be back in the city that I've always loved so much, and to see the people who are so important to me, but it also helped me reflect on my last six months in Vienna. It wasn't until this trip that I really realized how much I've learned, experienced, and grown over this crazy year. I've gained so much perspective, personally, musically, and artistically.
I could go on and on about this (especially since I'm still a bit punchy with jet-lag and buzzed on caffeine) but for now, I'd like you to just enjoy these photos from my hike with the Herkner guys. I don't think I've ever been surrounded by so much beauty - I just wanted to keep taking pictures!
We made it to the top!
(Great action shots, huh?)
Now for an audition update:
I auditioned for the Berlin Studio Program (equivalent to a Young Artist Program) and although they did not accept me, I did gain an agent out of the audition. The agent, who is friends with my coach at the Staatsoper, sat in on my audition in Berlin In Europe, singers do not pay their agents, nor do they sign any sort of exclusive contract. This means that having an "agent" in Europe really just means that you have someone to find auditions for you. I will continue to audition for other agents, as it's been very slow-going with this guy.
Although I also felt that I sang my best for the Munich Studio, they did not accept me to the finals, either. I was pretty bummed after this audition, but I made a comeback with my Doctoral audition at IU! I received great feedback from the voice faculty, and now I'm just keeping my fingers crossed for some good financial aid.
Of course I would love to receive an engagement in Germany or Austria for next year, but I certainly wouldn't look at returning to Bloomington as a step backward. As I've already said, I've gained so much perspective during my time in Vienna, and I think that working toward the doctorate would be an excellent next step for me. We'll see, though. I'm just trying to take one day at a time, because otherwise I'll just go nuts!
It was so great seeing all of you in Bloomington who may be reading this, and for everyone else: I think of you often, and am constantly sending lots of love and positive thoughts!
The boys were very happy to have me back. As was their cousin, Alma, as you can see by this photo. ;)
