July 3, 2020--Practice Blog in the time of the virus

One day until the holiday that terrifies dogs all over the US. The day started with a brief (1 hour) discussion on Facebook about the popularity of Opera in the 18th and 19th century and the purpose of the Sonata in the home in the 18th century pre-Beethoven. Went to practice organ for two hours. Wife and I bought more plants to update the backyard even more. It is wonderful back there. We added in a fountain and a raised planter.

Afterwards, I sat in the backyard for a while before coming in and doing my duties as Lodge Secretary for an hour. Practiced piano for an hour and then ate leftovers before going to lodge. Came home and watched some Magnum and going to continue to watch the Mandolorian after I finish here.

On the organ, I worked on movement VIII of the Mass for the Convents of Francois Couperin. Hope the registration is better and the notes ineguale sound more natural. I also worked on BWV 636 for Secrets of Organ Playing Contest. Didn't feel quite ready today, so will record tomorrow. Played through an arrangement of On Wings of Song by Mendelssohn to use as a prelude tomorrow. Finished with slow practicing of Hindemith Second Sonata, first movement.

On the piano, I worked on the first three of Brahms' Op. 10 Ballades and Liszt's Valse Oubilee.