Back to School

Once again, I’m happy and proud to be back at my alma mater, Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois. I’m here to serve as an Artist in Residence and to work with the students on their vocal skills. The week will culminate with a recital/concert on Saturday.

The toughest part of the week is for me to hear so many singers and then narrow down the roster to the few that will sing on Saturday. Already I’ve heard some very fine singing and great potential. I wish they could all perform on Saturday but then we’d have a six hour event--sounds like Gotterdammerung.

It’s always fun being back here in the “Soybean Capitol of the World”. This morning, it was particularly nice to hear the bells from Westminster Presbyterian Church which is next to the house I’m bunking in this week. This is the church where my wife and I were married a few years back. The memories that flood my mind when I’m back in Decatur are truly overwhelming at times---but oh, do I enjoy the experience.

I’m thrilled to report that the St. Louis Cardinals are once again in the playoffs. I’m a life long Cardinal fan and am so happy I’ll be able to watch them in the post season once again.

Only three weeks remain until “Hoffmann” rehearsals get going at The Met. I’ve had several months away from the opera stage and am looking forward to getting back in make-up and back on the boards. Bring it on!!! Time to be the bad guy x 4.