billarnold.typepad.com

If

I just finished the latest assignment for the online orchestration class I've been taking. The assignment was to write something for solo trombone based on the poem If by Rudyard Kipling. This time I decided to go with a jazz sound.

Keep in mind that these are "sampled" instruments. It's never quite the same as the real thing! This becomes especially apparent when working with a solo instrument like the trombone.

If [2:48]

Certification Update

I have signed up for 3 graduate classes through Villanova for this Summer. I'll be commuting down to Philadelphia 5 days a week, from June 18 to July 13, for all-day classes. Here's what I'm taking:

1. Understanding Rhythm through West African Culture
2. Composing and Arranging World Music for the Classroom
3. Choral Conducting

I'm really hoping the state is able to process my certification quickly once I finish my classes!

9 Credits Short

I found out yesterday that I am 9 credits short in terms of being certified to teach in New Jersey. The requirements state that I must have completed "30 credits in a coherent sequence in the subject field. A coherent sequence requires that at least 12 credits are completed at the advanced level of study (junior, senior or graduate level)."

I have 40 credits in music, but apparently only 3 of them are being considered "advanced level." Needless to say, I am upset about this!