Practice Makes Progress

2024 is zooming away! I’ve been doing lots of practicing and prep work for my last semester of undergraduate studies. I am excited to get back into the rhythm of living on campus. Although I have been working at home and have loved being around my friends and family, I feel a bit more proactive in the campus environment. I’m sad to say I will have to learn how to replicate it after graduation…sounds like a May problem!

In the last two weeks, I’ve spent some time working on a commissioned piece. I’m happy to say I’ve made some great progress. I ended up working in chunks. Making a sketch then adding details later, measures at a time. It made it easier to jump around the piece. I first wrote the main theme, then the ending, next the middle, the transitions, and finally the opening. All there is left to do is finalize the orchestration and engrave.

Speaking of engraving, I’ve also spent time putting together parts for an upcoming premiere. Although the process is rather simple (I know the look I’m going for), it’s rather tedious. I’ve finished the first season of Dance Moms while making multi-measure rests and moving dynamics markings millimeters at a time. But the process will be rewarding and I’ll be left with great-looking parts (with a matching score).

Outside of the composition world, I set up my studio at Keystone Music Academy, which is where I’ve been teaching. I love the way it turned out. I finally have a place for all the music collectibles that have been crowding my bedroom! I did, unfortunately, have to take the speakers down not long after I set them up. Time to move back to Rochester!

Until next time,

Rita Veneziale

(Click on my CONTACT page to message me with any questions or business inquiries)