Well, another day has passed. I always have many challenges on this path. Not all have to do with technique & musical styling. These things are all important for efficacy of expression, of course, but the most challenging part of my job is being with 300 people and still being diplomatic! When the tensions are high, ah yes, the test of a good colleague is to ride above the storms. So, I'm going to an orchestra concert on thursday that some of my friends will be singing in and then perhaps celebrating my birthday later that evening. I am learning German very well and am pleased that I can feel comfortable for the most part in basic daily conversation. It's very exciting and I like the language very much. Well, signing off for now!

Liz

Well, I am finally getting around to writing my blog. I am so sorry for taking so long!!! Things have been going so incredibly fast and there is much to tell. I'll start from this week and work backwards...

On thursday night, I had the most amazing time in this beautiful hall called the Stefaniensaal. It is hundreds of years old and has chandeliers and amazing architecture. I was so excited to sing the "Brindisi" from La Traviata, otherwise known as the "Drinking Song". I did the duet with Tenor Michael Smith and had the best time ever! As soon as I get the pics I will post. The conductor was David Stahl, he is very well known in Germany and also conducts in Ohio. You can check out his stats on the www.aimsgraz.com site.

Thus far I've consumed copious amounts of ice cream, staying away from schnitzel and loving something called Kern oil, oil from pumpkin seeds, very tasty and apparently healthy for you. The city is so beautiful! I wandered around the famous clock tower called the Schlossberg yesterday to clear my head for the deluge of activities this week, it is so green and lovely.

Well, it's off to bed, German class awaits at 8 AM, I've graduated to level 2 and very much enjoying the language. Thanks for tuning in and auf wiedersehn for now!