Harp Column Blogs: Laura ByrneArchive

Every New Year's Day I review the past year and write out a list of goals that I hope to accomplish in the new year. I divide my goals into categories in my professional and personal life and see where it takes me. As I review the past year I am pleased that I accomplished so many of my goals and adjusted when I got a few surprises.
One of my primary goals in 2007 was to achieve more balance in my life and work "smarter". After battling a serious bout of bronchitis and the flu last Christmas, I decided to make my health a priority. I got serious and joined a health club and really made an effort. I credit diet, yoga, and weight lifting for giving me real physical stamina in my life and work this past year. I did not get seriously sick and was able to sustain a very heavy work schedule all year. I lost weight and felt really great most of the time.
I organized my practice schedule for my major performances for the year and prepared well in advance for performance readiness. I sailed through a lot of the tough repertoire without the usual pre-performance stress. This was a new experience for me and I loved being so prepared . I was able to accept a lot of other work because I already had my big rep "in the hands".
I shared my preparation and performances with my students so they could see that I really do practice what I preach/teach. It was good for them to see their teacher work using the same preparation process for performance.
As a teacher I watched my students push through to new levels of ability. I sent some of my younger students to the Rabun's Gap Harp camp and they caught the "harp fever". They had a blast and made some new friends in the process. They are already practicing in preparation for next summer and are very excited.
As I put 2007 in perspective I am pleased with my accomplishments and counting my blessings. In spite of some bewildering disappointments I find I still have more wins than losses. I made some beautiful chamber music with my faculty colleagues at UNC, performed the Debussy- "Danses Sacree et Profane" at Duke and received lovely reviews. I also performed parts of the Mahler "Resurrection Symphony" in Duke Chapel on Easter Sunday and believe me that was a memory! I had a lot of fun working with some really stellar musicians this year and they reminded me of the importance of joy in performance. This was especially helpful when trapped in "Nutcracker Hell" and trying really hard not to go insane after 14 performances. Years ago I performed 29 "Nuts" in a Ballet run but alas, I was younger then. I am really so impressed with Broadway musicians who play the same show for years and don't fall asleep. ; )
In looking ahead to 2008 I have some new goals in mind. I am continually inspired by so many of my faculty colleagues and old harpist friends who are finding real success in their careers. "Success" has a broad definition in my mind and balance has become the barometer of my contentment. I still have struggles but my kids keep me grounded and remind me of what is most important. I look forward to having more fun with my family and friends and celebrating my teacher's 100th birthday this year!
I hope everyone has a great 2008 and enjoys great health and happiness!
CHEERS!