Composer’s Symposium 2017 (Master Class)
Thoroughly enjoyed my week at the Composer’s Symposium in Atlanta!
Here’s a video clip of my Master Class piece with excellent critique! And…I didn’t even get ambushed by Robert Sterling! Woo-hoo! 😉 (inside joke)
Please excuse the raw video…lacking my video editor on laptop.
Judging panel from left to right:
Robert Sterling, Marty Parks, Brad Hix, John Parker and Joseph Martin
Tags: composer symposium, jenifer cook
I love the song!! Don’t change anything.
I have some of Dino’s music (not that I can play it) but he puts the easier version above the line. I think that would be better personally for me anyway and keep the original on the the same line because there is more to it. That’s my musically challenged thought. 🙂
Thank you for sharing this video. I found the judges’ comments to your outstanding arrangement very helpful. I dabble in arranging/composing myself, even though my ability to play is often above my ability to write. My arrangements have to be kept playable due to the fact that I get so nervous. I play for a small church of about 30 – 40 people. Discovering your website has inspired me to arrange hymns using some of your styling ideas. I think the oasis idea is a great one. Hoping you will consider doing this to your “Then Sings My Soul” (HGTA) arrangement. I have been trying to come up with my own version of this song since I can’t seem to find one that is both meaningful and playable. I appreciate your ministry.
Thanks for sharing this, Jenifer! I noticed that you added more flourishes than are in the arrangement I have (which would make it more difficult for me to play, although I hope eventually I can play those things more easily!) Have you changed it or did you just play it differently for this occasion? I thought they had good suggestions. Love the piece, one of my favorites!
Good observation 🙂 I will be updating to the version I played in Master Class AFTER editing it 🙂
Jennifer, I thought your arrangement of Abide with me was absolutely beautiful. I am able to play at an advanced level, and do so regularly. I really like playing advanced pieces with big “crashy” type endings. But sometimes the perfect song is one that is a simple, easier to play arrangement, which can be sight read, without requiring weeks of intense practice. I do believe that often times less is more! I also like the shorter length pieces, as my church is small with an average of 30-35 members present most Sundays, so collecting the offering doesn’t take very long at all. I’ve purchased your arrangements, and really like playing them, and get many compliments on them. Keep up the great work, and know that you are a tremendous help to your fellow pianists! God bless you and thanks!!
Anna,
Thanks SO much for your comments! They were very encouraging! 🙂