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Wow, I only have two concerts left! It's amazing how fast this summer has gone, but at the same time I can't wait to go home.

Earlier today I played in an opera scenes masterclass. A reduced orchestra performed scenes from operas of Handel, Haydn, and Mozart. It was a pretty good experience; I really love opera music and this Classical-Baroque style is enjoyable for me to play. A lot of full time orchestras continue performances in the summer, but instead of traditional symphonic concerts, they perform as the orchestra for an opera company season. I've never played opera before, so this gave me a nice introduction. The only problem I have is that unlike a regular concert, the orchestra is crammed in a small pit and usually the instrumentalists have to live and perform in the shadow of the singers. Let's face it, the patrons care more about operatic divas than a rockin' viola section. However, it can be very rewarding if you approach it with a fairly selfless attitude.

Next concert: Strauss Til Eulenspeigel, Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 3, Beethoven Symphony No. 6. WOW! Lots of notes to learn...