Angie vs. the Beast: Who Will Come Out On Top?

Some of you already know this, but I am in the middle of preparing a concerto, Concerto in e minor by Edward Elgar, to solo with the ProMusica Arizona Orchestra in May. It's kind of a big deal for me because I didn't get to solo in college and I'll probably never get to do it again, and I really love the piece, so I'm excited for the opportunity. But I've got to tell you, it's the hardest, longest, fastest, highest piece I've ever had to play by myself. Sometimes, this is how I feel about it. (That's me with the red cape and the sword, fighting against unbeatable odds...)

I question: Can I do it? Why does the director want me to play the whole thing? Wouldn't a part of it be just as nice?

Last week I was starting to feel pregnant and was struggling with an intense lack of motivation. "Well, it's time for me to go practice. Hmmm.... I really don't want to practice. Okay. I'm going to go to bed instead." That day I got a practice session in 2 out of 6 days, and they were both short and half-hearted. So I'm writing this post in reconciliation. Now you all know that I really am supposed to be practicing every day (whether you wanted to or not). This week I've done 3 out of 4 days...day 5 isn't over yet. Who will come out on top today? Me? Or Elgar? I may have lost a couple...well, several battles, but I'm determined to win the war.