Last year I found myself complaining far too frequently about the quality of my classes at CIM. This semester I have little to complain about. I am thrilled with my professors and my classes. I think for once, I am taking the right number of credits!

I’m taking Music Analytics and Analysis- or something like that MUTH 407 is what I call it. Basically it is a class to prepare us to take our comprehensive exams in music theory. The teacher is spectacular. He reminds me of the little bald guy on Princess Bride, he has the same slightly nasal voice and matter of fact sense of humor. The class goes beyond standard classical music theory and explains how one analyzes or makes sense of music that goes beyond the realms of classical music theory. We’re talking about neighbor tone augmented sixth chords, Major thirteenth chords, and how diminished seventh chords can function in many more ways than as a dominant leading to tonic. This class is all about the music, and the theory is just there to help us better understand the music. All of our assignments are on pieces from our own individual recitals. I love digging into music this way, so I’m thrilled.

Opera Literature, is a lecture class, and Mr. Simmons doesn’t have the suave sophisticated manner of my favorite music history professor at Oberlin, Mr. McGuire, BUT. . . the information is similarly interested and well researched. Mr. Simmons is a dear of a man, and very genuine, and that’s enough for me. I have been getting the history of opera for the last five years just in the mix of general music history, classical music history and romantic music history. So much of this is review with stuff added on. It makes the class easy to follow which provides time to make deeper connections.

My Italian 201 class reminds me a lot of my Italian course in Italy. It’s very laid back, but in an Italian sort of way, rather than in a disorganized sort of way. There are only three of us in the class which makes for lots of conversation time. The professor speaks almost exclusively in Italian and I love it. I can speak as much as I want without looking like some presumptuous gunner. The other two students are eager to learn and willing to speak.

I’m in Opera workshop again, which while it is often just repeats of past concepts, I love having the chance to perform and analyze others’ performances. I have great respect for Mr. Bamberger and always appreciate his holistic view of the operatic career.

Lastly I have lessons, which are going really well so far this year. We’ve already made some great discoveries. Mr. Billions has given me several extra times in order to help prepare me for the audition next Friday, and I’m very grateful for how supportive and encouraging he has been.

It’s going to be a great year!