In Pursuit of the Arts: The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Concert

Many of you know my main "gig" in life is teaching piano.  I started teaching piano lessons when I was in high school and recently reached the age where I have taught lessons longer than I have not.  I love teaching and am passionate about helping my students develop a love for music.  I believe that music enriches lives so it's no surprise that I'm a supporter of different avenues of introducing communities to classical music.

I have the privilege of sharing a city with the Grammy winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.  While I am not able to attend concerts as often as I would like, I do try to make it to a concert at least once a season.  Last week, I received a text from a student's parent informing me that they would not be able to use their tickets for ASO, which was featuring André Watts in an "All Brahms" program that night.  Thrilled to have the chance for an impromptu outing, I called texted a friend, and we headed downtown!

Upon arrival at the Woodruff Arts Center, we learned that Mr. Watts was unwell and would not be performing that night.  I was disappointed as I was [obviously] looking forward to hearing the Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 2.  However, when the Usher told me what the Orchestra would be performing instead, I was ecstatic!  

While many claim Beethoven's 5th and especially 10th Symphonies as their favorites, his 7th has always been my favorite.  You may remember the second movement from the 2011 Oscar winning movie, The King's Speech.  If you need a refresher, check out this video:



It was every bit as glorious as I had hoped it would be and it was not until after the concert that I learned that due to Mr. Watts' unfortunate cancellation (at 4:00 that afternoon), the Orchestra had not had a chance to rehearse the Beethoven.  Apparently by their Sunday concert of the same program, it was phenomenal.

I know I take for granted having such an amazing Orchestra so readily available to attend.  An Orchestra that can pull a Beethoven symphony out of their back pocket and execute it in such a way as to pull at the heartstrings of every audience member.  Quite amazing.

I am certain many of my readers live in a city that has an orchestra that gives regular concerts.  Even smaller suburbs generally have community orchestras that give regular concerts.  I encourage you to support these musicians by attending their concerts!  If a formal, strictly classical concert does not appeal to you, look for orchestras that do "Pop" concerts, such as ASO's "Delta Pops!" Music Rocks!

In Pursuit of a Fine Mind: My Top Four Podcasts Recommendations

I will admit, I am a bit late to the "Podcast" game.  I listened to a few episodes over the years but haven't genuinely looked forward to new episodes of a particular Podcast until last Spring.  Upon finishing Shannon Ables book, Choosing the Simply Luxurious Life: A Modern Woman's Guide, I ventured to her website and was delighted to she not only had a weekly Podcast, but also a plethora of episodes I could "binge" listen.

Since last Spring, I have found several other Podcasts that I thoroughly enjoy.  Since I firmly believe that Cultivating Your Mind  can be a very fine thing, I wanted to share with you my top four podcasts recommendations that turn my daily chores, morning walks, and car rides into constant learning opportunities.

I use iTunes Podcasts to subscribe and listen to all of the following recommendations.  I am not super tech-savvy, but I'm sure there are other Podcasts apps where you may find these recommendations as well.

1. The Simple Sophisticate

This Podcast is the one that got me hooked on listening to Podcasts.  Shannon Ables shares 20-30 minutes of inspiring information, ideas, and insights on how to curate your own simply luxurious life.  Airing every Monday morning, this Podcast brings me inspiration to start my week with purpose and beauty.  The end of each episode features a "Petit Plaisir" where Shannon recommends a book, a film, a play, a recipe, or anything else she is eager to share.  Each episode, along with show notes, can be found in the above link.

2.  The Splendid Table

Lynne Rossetto Kasper hosts this delightful radio series which is then published as a weekly Podcast.  Like many of you, I've enjoyed The Splendid Table for years via my 90.1 F.M. NPR station, so I was thrilled to find I could listen to SO MANY EPISODES at my convenience.  The Splendid Table declares itself, "The Show For People Who Love to Eat," and delves deep into food through interviews of chefs, writers, travelers, any many others.  Additionally, Lynne answers questions from listeners who call in with the culinary inquiries.  

3. Financial Rock Star Scott Alan Turner

While finances is not one of my favorite topics, Scott Alan Turner presents tips to "Get out of debt, save money, and retire early," in a fun, upbeat, and SIMPLE way.  Even though budgets have been a part of most of my adult life, I never knew the difference between a 401k and Roth IRA and was completely petrified of the Stock Market.  I am not [yet] wheeling and dealing with stock market day-trading; however, I do feel as though I am much more informed (and have a better understanding) investment opportunities as well as the best ways to save and get out of debt (tip: getting out of debt doesn't matter one flip if you don't change your spending habits).  Thanks, Scott!

4. Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs

This is the most recent addition to my Podcast collection, and I couldn't be happier to have found it.  I was introduced to Birds on a Wire from a dear friend (thanks, Angela!) and fell in love with Karen and her ministry to encourage and equip moms.  I've attended several BOAW groups and had the great pleasure of taking part in the first BOAW Conference a few years ago.  Karen provides such awesome, motherly advice from discipline and boundaries how-to's to helping our children grow their own faith.  

I would love for you to check out these Podcasts and hope that you'll enjoy them all!  What Podcasts do you currently enjoy?  Please share in the comments below!