I am now officially a volunteer at Logan Regional Hospital. So far I have played the piano there twice and it has been a rewarding experience. I have had so many people come up to me and tell me that the music really calms the spirit and soul. I know that is true. Music is the universal language. No matter what language you speak, music can be understood by everyone. I am so grateful for this opportunity to volunteer. Not only does it bless those in the hospital, but it blesses me. I feel relaxed and happy when I play. I even have a cool name badge with my picture on it so I am totally official! It is an amazing experience.

Today I got almost 6 hours of practicing done. I feel good but also exhausted. I had a great lesson with one of my teachers and we were able to talk about taking my piece to the next level and getting it really ready and solid for the competition. The competition is three weeks away and my concerto is sounding pretty good. It has really come a long way since the beginning of the semester. I am starting to learn that playing the piano is not an event....it is a process that takes a lifetime to master. My teacher is still learning and I will continue to learn for as long as I am playing.

The semester continues to get busier and busier as time goes on! A lot has happened over the last month. I am still plugging away at getting my practice hours in each week. The piece I am working on is Hungarian Fantasy by Liszt and I am preparing it for the University's Symphony audition. It is definitely coming along and I can't wait to put it with the accompaniment! The audition will be on Dec. 7th. I am so excited for it!

Last Friday, we had our Youth Conservatory Halloween Carnival. All those who teach in the Youth Conservatory (I will be teaching next semester) have their students perform in Halloween recitals throughout the night. Then there is a carnival put on by the piano majors for all the kids and their families. My job was working in the donut eating contest booth. It was a blast - although I am pretty sure we went through at least 15 boxes of donuts. It was crazy, but so fun seeing all the kids in their Halloween costumes and having a good time!

I am super close to being able to volunteer at the hospital by playing the piano. I have had to get lots of shots, watch modules, and have several meetings with the volunteer department. I had no idea it was such a long process to be able to volunteer at the hospital! But it will definitely be worth it. I can't wait until I can start playing in the lobby. The piano is a gorgeous baby grand and in a perfect place in the hospital. I will let you know how it goes when I start playing there