My classes for the next semester at the University of Maine start next Monday, January 13, 2014. (It feels strange to be typing 2014!)

Because I already have a Bachelor’s Degree, I am only required to meet the degree requirements of the Music Department to get my BA in music.  This will take me 4 to 5 more semesters, depending on how heavy a course load I take each term.  The minimum requirements are for 55 credits.  I want to take many courses beyond the minimum requirements because there is so much I want to learn! 

I registered for 16 credits for the Spring 2014 semester:

Elementary Harmony II

Elementary Sight Singing and Ear Training II

History of Western Music II

Music Period Course (Music History of the Romantic Period)

Chamber Jazz and Arranging Piano

Chamber Jazz Ensemble

Applied Music Lessons (Organ)

Applied Music Lessons (Piano)

One of the challenges in choosing my courses is breadth vs. depth.  At this point in my learning, I am working to balance the breadth (I want to learn everything, now!) with the depth where I will study specific literature in great detail, mostly through my applied music lessons. 

I need to schedule time every day to practice both the organ and the piano.  In addition to having access to the pianos and the pipe organ at the University of Maine, I am very fortunate to have a 1914 Mason and Hamlin AA baby grand piano at home, which is a joy to play!  I am also very fortunate to have the support of the local Hampden Methodist church that allows me to practice regularly on their 1909 Hook and Hastings organ, Opus 2223, with 2 manuals, 30-note pedal, and 8 ranks.  This organ was restored by David Wallace & Co. in 2004. 

http://www.wallacepipeorgans.com/html/instruments/hampden_me.html