Hello!

I've fallen behind in my 52 books reading, it was expected though, as my schedule became much tighter when we started school at home again.

So, a quick update:
I currently have 2 books on the go at the moment - Pianism by Aiko Onshi and The Musician's Way by Gerald Klickstein.  Both of these books are proving invaluable in my music studies.

I am preparing to complete an AMEB practical piano exam, hopefully sometime in late May 2013.  I have mastered 1 of my pieces so far (Liszt), and have learnt 2 others which are still in the development phase (Grieg & Nielsen).  I will still have 3 more pieces to learn.  Here is a list of what I'm studying:
Liszt - Consolation #1
Grieg - Arietta No. 1 Op 12
Kabalevsky - Novelette No. 25 Op 27
Mozart - Rondo-allegro 4th movement from Viennese Sonatina No. 2 in A maj
Vorisek - Rondeau mignon
Nielsen - Snurretoppen

Some of these pieces are quite intimidating.  When I listen to recordings I think, these are real piano pieces, no more playing around, surely I'm not at that ability level yet?  I still struggle with confidence.

After this exam I plan to spend the rest of the year studying theory and then completing an online exam through the AMEB.  Once that is completed I will work on the next grade's practical exam.  I am excited for this, as I'll finally get to add another piece to my Chopin repertoire - his masterpiece 'Raindrop'.  If you've never heard this piece before I recommend it, so moving.


Back to books.  I am still plugging along S.L.O.W.L.Y. with Dr. Zhivago.  I am contemplating an easier read, as the piano books and Zhivago are meaty, my brain might explode if I can't relax it a little!  High on the list is an interesting novel called John Dies at the End by David Wong.  I read the kindle sample and was intrigued, it is described as a horror/comedy!   I was going to check it out of the library, but that is turning into a difficult process (it's checked out, so I can request it, but I'd have to go change my address first... bleh), so I may just order the kindle edition, or check out a local book store first.  I'm reluctant to order the kindle edition because I can get a hard copy from book depository for only $1 more...

Blessings to you all!