How I Got To Lincoln Center
Somebody Pinch Me
"Somebody pinch me, I must be dreaming". That's exactly what I thought when I sat down at the piano on the stage at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center in New York City. It was such a surreal moment, something I never imagined would happen to me. Yet there I was, seated at a 9 foot long, perfectly tuned Steinway concert grand piano, about to play for nearly 3,000 people. This truly was one of the most memorable experiences of my life.
Music for Life Benefit program cover, Lincoln Center. Photo of actual program (and all photos on this lens) by yours truly.
©2013 SusanT. All Rights Reserved.
Hold Onto Your Seats
Music for Life Benefit Rehearsal. Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center.
©2013 SusanT. All Rights Reserved.
When I was asked to play at Lincoln Center (by a friend I was working with in a band at the time), I was such a skeptic about anything anyone promised me in the music business. I had been in numerous bands since I was 13, and heard so many promises of opportunities: record deals, tours, fame and fortune. An opportunity to play at Lincoln Center? Yeah, right. I thought I would believe it when I was actually there, at rehearsal.
As you can see from the above photo, it really was happening! I was so excited at rehearsal, that I began shooting photos of the stage, just to prove that it was actually happening. Later that evening, all of those seats were full!
The Beginnings - & Lots of Practice, Practice, Practice
My First Piano Book
(I began piano lessons at age 6, which is why this music book looks the way it does!)
Would I say that it was "practice, practice, practice" or just luck that got me to the stage at Lincoln Center?
Sure, practice did contribute to the formula that helped get me there, but it was also perseverance and being open to great opportunities. This incredible experience was proof of the phrase: Luck Is When Preparation Meets Opportunity.
Summary of Piano Study and Experience (The "Preparation" Part of the Formula):
- Began piano lessons at the age of 6. (Mostly Classical music. I studied with the same teacher until I was 17.)
- Began learning pop & rock songs by ear, and joined my first band at the age of 13.
- Participated in the National Piano Player Auditions for 12 years.
- Performed and recorded with various bands and songwriters.
Studying Classical music gave me great technique and timing, but it was learning different songs by ear, collaborating with different artists and performing live that brought amazing, rewarding opportunities to me: from recording with singer/songwriters to performing at large venues.
Preparation: Material to Learn - You've Got To Start Somewhere
Here are a few of my suggestions for piano practice, for the very young beginner, adult beginner and advanced/intermediate. I started playing with the same books, many years ago. With time, patience, dedication and perseverance, you too can become a skilled musician.
Inspirational Quote: Be Daring!
"It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare that they are difficult." - Seneca
The Practice, Practice, Practice Poll
Are you a Musician? If so, what is your favorite way to practice?
The Results of Preparation and Perseverance - Attracting Luck and Great Opportunities
A Dramatic Shot from a Show at CAMI Hall, NYC.
©2013 SusanT. All Rights Reserved.
After many years of practicing and student recitals, I branched out on my own and started to play with bands at the age of 13. Through networking, learning different music styles and playing live with numerous bands, a number of terrific, memorable opportunities presented themselves to me. Like the (lucky) opportunity of performing at CAMI Hall, directly across the street from Carnegie Hall; a smaller venue, but just as memorable as my experience at Lincoln Center.
Opportunity: More Material, for Music and Life - Skills and Tips for the Growing Musician
Practice alone won't help you to achieve your musical goals. It helps to be flexible in your skills in order to be a well-rounded musician. Here, are some recommended books for inspiration and to help you grow as an artist.
Inspirational Quote: Opportunities
"Genuine beginnings begin within us, even when they are brought to our attention by external opportunities." - William Bridges
Conclusion and Advice
for Aspiring Musicians
Since I began studying and playing piano at such a young age, music is such a huge part of my life. It's something I would never give up and is such an outlet for me to express how I feel.
My advice for any artist or musician? Do what you love, express your deepest emotions through your art and/or instrument, and let the challenge of improving your abilities and range of expression be your goal. There's nothing more rewarding than sharing with your audience and having touched them in some way. (Similar to what writers do here, on Squidoo, isn't it?) With time, effort, practicing and being open to opportunities, you're sure to have some amazing (and lucky) musical experiences.
Keep practicing, keep creating and expressing yourself and good luck to you in your artistic pursuits!