In my nineteen years, I have always been proud of having a large family. Somewhere along my journey thus far, however, I had grown used to the idea of having such extended connections. I recently realized that I somehow have been taking it for granted. I have never forgotten about them, and I take comfort in knowing they are there; the fact is always in the back of my mind, but that's the thing.
While it is impossible to see my whole family at any given time, I share a unique relationship with each family member. I remain on (at least) good terms with everyone in my family. Where this is going, is that it just dawned on me that they are the reason I am as fortunate as I am about where my life is going. They are the reason I have been so successful, so far.
To explain myself a bit more in depth: Being that my family is so large, it can be expected that there is a large variety of personalities and ways of living. (You'd be surprised how very different people who were raised exactly the same way can be!) Because of that, I have been inspired and moulded by the examples and decisions of each person in my family.
My oldest brother, Matt, is to become an Officer in the US Navy upon graduating from NC State this summer. From there, he will attend flight school in Pensicola, FL to begin training for a career as a Naval Flight Officer. He is a highly intelligent, very patient, quiet-yet-fun, novelistic idea of an oldest brother. He is perhaps not very challenged in his education, being too smart for his own good. Either way, he is very respected among others, myself included.
Next in line is Kevin, who could not be more different. He is still trying to find what exactly he wants to do with his life. He is one of those people who is able to become passionate about whatever he is doing, almost to the point of obsession. He is also very talented in many ways I wish I was. Throughout his school years, he had to work a little bit harder for the same effect as those who didn't put forth much effort. Because of that, he has searched for alternative ways to survive in the "real world". Currently passionate about golf, he works as a caddy in Pinehurst. Searching for his next move, he is bracing himself at home, gaining some resistance before taking off again.
Brittney is my older sister, right before me. Like Kevin, she has taken an indefinite break from school, viewing it as a barrier from doing what she really wants to do: become a movie star. She is a successful waitress, happy with her latest boyfriend, and living with her dad. Growing up, she encouraged me to live by my heart, pursue my talents and passions, and not to care what others think about me. She is the sister that is also a best friend. I owe a lot of my confidence to her.
Right below me is my younger brother, Patrick. He is the perfect combination of all of us older kids. He has the brains, the looks, the talent, the swagger...haha. He gets perfect grades without trying, he is practically famous in his school (EVERY girl in his school wants to date him), and he is recognized by respected musicians around the town for being a proficient guitarist. He also dabbles in singing and songwriting. His dream is to go to Berklee College of Music and become the next John Mayer.
Michael is a red-headed leprechaun of a little brother, trying to figure out how to make the smoothest transition from elementary to middle school. He makes being cool an academic subject, studying the "textbook" of popularity. Largely misunderstood (being the youngest child in one house), he remains my best friend still at home. I can tell he looks up to me (to a certain extent), so I enjoy spending one-on-one time with him. He is just like me, only far ahead of where I was at the same age. So, though he'd never understand it, he teaches me more than I teach him.
Peyton is next. Extremely intelligent, just like Matt. Peyton knows more about some subjects (especially sciences), than I think I may ever comprehend. He is one of those people who likes to read and watch educational things, to learn just for fun. He's also the engineer-type. He has a unique personality, and while he is still growing and finding his way, he is firm in his beliefs, and I'm inspired by his self security. He idolizes Matt, and that is not a bad thing at all.
Last, but certainly not least, is my mini-me, Paige. She is a confident, outgoing, sassy six-year-old who says she wants to be like me when she grows up. I'm not sure that is such a good thing, haha, but it does keep me in line, to remain a good role-model for her. Being my only little sister, I think I adore her more than she adores me. Also, her level of confidence at her age is very reassuring to me, because that's what I lacked at her age. It is also inspirational. If I could teach her only one thing, however, it would be independence. But that will surely come with time.
As for my parents, each of them has a different but important impact on me. Having four of them, I have a full range of influences. I am most like my dad, and he has perhaps the largest influence on me. We have the same personality and sense of humor, and he's careful about guiding me in the right direction. My mom (the one I don't live with) always encourages me to pursue my dreams, and not let any obstacles prevent me from achieving them. The mom I do live with is a yoga teacher, so she always offers emotional viewpoints, but she is aslo highly realistic and rational. My step-dad (who I don't live with), acts as a guidance counselor, providing real-world advice in terms of education and career.
I am the kind of person that takes much pride in being independent and working hard for what I want. Sometimes viewed as stoic, uncaring, and even self-important, the facts that my self-standards are high, that I want to do things on my own, and that I will do whatever it takes to achieve my constantly heightened ambitions, are closer to the truth. And while that has brought me a long way, even further have I come as a direct product of my family members.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Sunday, February 28, 2010
formspring.me
Ask me whatever you want, mes petites lumières des étoiles. http://formspring.me/cgallagher08
Monday, February 22, 2010
Thinking schools. Again.
I have college and future plans on the brain again. It's what I obsess over, about 99% of the time.
I have applied to six universities:
1. University of North Carolina School of the Arts
2. University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
3. East Carolina University
4. Appalachian State University
5. Western Carolina University, and
6. North Carolina State University
Those are in order of where I'd like to go. So far, I have been accepted at NC State and ECU (although I've not auditioned for their School of Music yet). I have auditioned at UNC Chapel Hill and UNC School of the Arts, which are my top two choices! :)
Basically, the School of the Arts and Chapel Hill are the only two schools that I actually want to go to, at this point. The other four schools are back up plans (after an elaborate, yet sporadic and daring plan to take a break from school to study music in NYC...but anyways). Plus NC State is pretty much out because they have nothing to offer me: no music, and no B.A. in Math, (only a B.S. in Math)....so, I am pretty much planning my life around UNCSA and UNC-Chapel Hill.
Here's the deal: If I do not get in to either, or if I only get in to one, then all of my problems will be solved, and none of this worrying will matter. If, however (crossing my fingers), I am accepted to both prestigious universities, I cannot decide which one I should go to. (I swear, sometimes I think that being an INTJ, the way that I think is a curse. In the long run, though, it's always a blessing.)
UNCSA is a conservatory, and so obviously the better choice, in terms of music and vocal training. It specifically trains students for a professional career as a performing artist. They also have an unofficial pipeline to Broadway, as most alumni end up there. Also, I have worked with several UNSCA alumni in the past, and their talent, confidence, and professionalism far exceed those around them. But it will take me another four years for one degree: a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance (I would start out as a freshman again in the Fall).
On the other hand, UNC Chapel Hill will take 4-5 semesters (depending on one or two summer semesters), to get a B.A. in Music, plus a B.A. in Math, which together would beat most resumés. Then I could go ahead to NYC or the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati (or any other conservatory, but you get the idea...), for graduate school.
My ultimate plan either way is to be classically trained for my undergraduate studies, then go to graduate school for Musical Theatre. (Since, apparently Musical Theatre is where I ultimately belong....read the post below for THAT story). So, if I go to UNC School of the Arts, then I will be 24 years old with a B.M., then 26 years old when I finish my Master's degree. And if I go to UNC Chapel Hill, then I will be 21 years old with two B.A.s, and then 23 years old with a B.A. in Math, and a Master's in Vocal Performance with a concentration in Musical Theatre, and a Classical foundation. Which to me seems like the better choice...(Being an INTJ, I think in terms of the long run. Or in this case, the long-long run).
What to do, what to do....?
Wait until mid-March when I get my notifications, I suppose is all I can do for now.
I have applied to six universities:
1. University of North Carolina School of the Arts
2. University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
3. East Carolina University
4. Appalachian State University
5. Western Carolina University, and
6. North Carolina State University
Those are in order of where I'd like to go. So far, I have been accepted at NC State and ECU (although I've not auditioned for their School of Music yet). I have auditioned at UNC Chapel Hill and UNC School of the Arts, which are my top two choices! :)
Basically, the School of the Arts and Chapel Hill are the only two schools that I actually want to go to, at this point. The other four schools are back up plans (after an elaborate, yet sporadic and daring plan to take a break from school to study music in NYC...but anyways). Plus NC State is pretty much out because they have nothing to offer me: no music, and no B.A. in Math, (only a B.S. in Math)....so, I am pretty much planning my life around UNCSA and UNC-Chapel Hill.
Here's the deal: If I do not get in to either, or if I only get in to one, then all of my problems will be solved, and none of this worrying will matter. If, however (crossing my fingers), I am accepted to both prestigious universities, I cannot decide which one I should go to. (I swear, sometimes I think that being an INTJ, the way that I think is a curse. In the long run, though, it's always a blessing.)
UNCSA is a conservatory, and so obviously the better choice, in terms of music and vocal training. It specifically trains students for a professional career as a performing artist. They also have an unofficial pipeline to Broadway, as most alumni end up there. Also, I have worked with several UNSCA alumni in the past, and their talent, confidence, and professionalism far exceed those around them. But it will take me another four years for one degree: a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance (I would start out as a freshman again in the Fall).
On the other hand, UNC Chapel Hill will take 4-5 semesters (depending on one or two summer semesters), to get a B.A. in Music, plus a B.A. in Math, which together would beat most resumés. Then I could go ahead to NYC or the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati (or any other conservatory, but you get the idea...), for graduate school.
My ultimate plan either way is to be classically trained for my undergraduate studies, then go to graduate school for Musical Theatre. (Since, apparently Musical Theatre is where I ultimately belong....read the post below for THAT story). So, if I go to UNC School of the Arts, then I will be 24 years old with a B.M., then 26 years old when I finish my Master's degree. And if I go to UNC Chapel Hill, then I will be 21 years old with two B.A.s, and then 23 years old with a B.A. in Math, and a Master's in Vocal Performance with a concentration in Musical Theatre, and a Classical foundation. Which to me seems like the better choice...(Being an INTJ, I think in terms of the long run. Or in this case, the long-long run).
What to do, what to do....?
Wait until mid-March when I get my notifications, I suppose is all I can do for now.
Saturday, February 06, 2010
Interesting Reviews
So, I have successfully completed two of my five college music auditions.
Or unsuccessfully?
It's hard to say, but one thing's for sure: The general consensus among the music faculty at the universities I have auditioned for seems to be that I am better suited for Musical Theatre, as opposed to Classical training. I suppose based on my solo repertoire and my extensive background in musical theatre, it is easy to assume that musical theatre is my area of focus and intention.
Au contraire.
My intention is to be classically trained. I have been thorough in my research of universities and their music programs, what they are all about, and certainly the difference in musical theatre training and classical training.
Hearing that consistent uncertainty in my musical purpose has somewhat daunted me. I was taken aback at today's audition, after performing a requested musical theatre piece. They asked me what my interest in their program is. And if I thought I would be bored at their school...studying French, German, Italian literature, etc...I wondered if they really assumed I had not made myself aware of what type of singer their program composes, how they train, and exactly what I might be getting myself into. Which, frankly, slightly offended me.
Of course, I wouldn't be bored! That's exactly WHY I chose to major in music. So that I could learn all of that, and build a solid foundation from which to launch and maintain a successful music career. I know exactly what I am getting into, and what I am looking for. I may not be (vocally or by genre) exactly what they look for in auditionees or future/prospective students, and I was aware of that before auditioning...But I guarantee them this: They are exactly what I want. And I am willing to do what it takes to get the training that I firmly believe in, and hold the highest respect for as a musician. For what other reason would I even bother?...If I didn't give it my all or work to and above my highest standards? I am not the type of person, or musician, that settles. That, in my book, is not above giving up.
I didn't skip a beat, though. I explained that I was completely aware of what it means to be classically trained, and that it has never been my intention to major in musical theatre. I also explained that I understand that, although that is what my background is made up of, and that I have never been operatically trained, it is still my desire to become a classically trained singer.
Even then, they threw back that it's okay to admit that Musical Theatre is my career intention and that I may wish to base the extension of my career in performance on classical training...but that thought has never crossed my mind. And I explained that in a Statement of Purpose that was submitted along with my application.
But never fear. (Although I somehow screwed up the Italian piece that I have been studying for over a year)...I was the last voice student to audition today, and the first to be asked to perform three pieces (as opposed to two), and also the first to get a perfect score on the sight-reading. Surprise, surprise. My theory may be a little bit of proof that I am working to be where I know I want to be.
I plan to exhaust every source possible to prove that that school is exactly where I have specifically chosen to attend.
Good day.
Or unsuccessfully?
It's hard to say, but one thing's for sure: The general consensus among the music faculty at the universities I have auditioned for seems to be that I am better suited for Musical Theatre, as opposed to Classical training. I suppose based on my solo repertoire and my extensive background in musical theatre, it is easy to assume that musical theatre is my area of focus and intention.
Au contraire.
My intention is to be classically trained. I have been thorough in my research of universities and their music programs, what they are all about, and certainly the difference in musical theatre training and classical training.
Hearing that consistent uncertainty in my musical purpose has somewhat daunted me. I was taken aback at today's audition, after performing a requested musical theatre piece. They asked me what my interest in their program is. And if I thought I would be bored at their school...studying French, German, Italian literature, etc...I wondered if they really assumed I had not made myself aware of what type of singer their program composes, how they train, and exactly what I might be getting myself into. Which, frankly, slightly offended me.
Of course, I wouldn't be bored! That's exactly WHY I chose to major in music. So that I could learn all of that, and build a solid foundation from which to launch and maintain a successful music career. I know exactly what I am getting into, and what I am looking for. I may not be (vocally or by genre) exactly what they look for in auditionees or future/prospective students, and I was aware of that before auditioning...But I guarantee them this: They are exactly what I want. And I am willing to do what it takes to get the training that I firmly believe in, and hold the highest respect for as a musician. For what other reason would I even bother?...If I didn't give it my all or work to and above my highest standards? I am not the type of person, or musician, that settles. That, in my book, is not above giving up.
I didn't skip a beat, though. I explained that I was completely aware of what it means to be classically trained, and that it has never been my intention to major in musical theatre. I also explained that I understand that, although that is what my background is made up of, and that I have never been operatically trained, it is still my desire to become a classically trained singer.
Even then, they threw back that it's okay to admit that Musical Theatre is my career intention and that I may wish to base the extension of my career in performance on classical training...but that thought has never crossed my mind. And I explained that in a Statement of Purpose that was submitted along with my application.
But never fear. (Although I somehow screwed up the Italian piece that I have been studying for over a year)...I was the last voice student to audition today, and the first to be asked to perform three pieces (as opposed to two), and also the first to get a perfect score on the sight-reading. Surprise, surprise. My theory may be a little bit of proof that I am working to be where I know I want to be.
I plan to exhaust every source possible to prove that that school is exactly where I have specifically chosen to attend.
Good day.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
What a GREAT week! :)
Hooray for a day off school tomorrow....even if it is only the second week.
Today was quite productive. I cleaned my room and closet, which is part of my agenda every weekend, since I usually don't have time to clean them during the week, arg. Plus, I gathered material for a speech I'm working on, studied for school and work, payed some bills, and got to go to my grandparents' house with my family for dinner :)
This was such a great week. It was my first week back at school, and my new classes are totally boss. I'm officially taking:
General Chemistry I (Lecture and Lab)
Chorus
Applied Music-Voice
Independent Study-Class Piano I
Dancing for Fitness
American Literature I, and
Principles of Management.
This week, I was also hired as a waitress at Outback Steakhouse (FINALLY), and I will begin training on Tuesday. The manager is way cool, and he seems to be impressed with me, so that's good. I was also offered an interview for my dream job, but more on that when I find out a little more....For now, I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I also was offered a highly profitable babysitting gig for a week or two, and I'm hoping that my crazy schedule will allow room for it.....Because I'm still the Marketing Manager for the textile company, and I am in the middle of four or five projects with that job! AHH, my life is crazy right now, but I'm so digging it!
I had rehearsal for Oklahoma! again this weekend, and it was perfect...I can't even explain how much I love doing this stuff. As frustrating as musical mistakes can be to me, I love them all the same. It's all part of the process. (Being an INTJ, the process itself is almost more important than the outcome to me.) I also began rehearsals for Choral Society this week. That's one that I'm not entirely sure I can fully commit to. I'm going to try to stick through the whole season, but I don't yet know if the rest of my schedule will allow room for it. I'm pushing for it though :)
This coming weekend is my first college audition, for UNC Chapel Hill. I'm not very nervous...I don't really get nervous for things anymore, but I am very excited. I get to stay with my mom in Cary for the weekend, which will be awesome because I haven't seen my other family in a while. For my audition, I'm going to sing:
1. "Per La Gloria D'adorarvi" by Giovanni Battista Bononcini
Today was quite productive. I cleaned my room and closet, which is part of my agenda every weekend, since I usually don't have time to clean them during the week, arg. Plus, I gathered material for a speech I'm working on, studied for school and work, payed some bills, and got to go to my grandparents' house with my family for dinner :)
This was such a great week. It was my first week back at school, and my new classes are totally boss. I'm officially taking:
General Chemistry I (Lecture and Lab)
Chorus
Applied Music-Voice
Independent Study-Class Piano I
Dancing for Fitness
American Literature I, and
Principles of Management.
This week, I was also hired as a waitress at Outback Steakhouse (FINALLY), and I will begin training on Tuesday. The manager is way cool, and he seems to be impressed with me, so that's good. I was also offered an interview for my dream job, but more on that when I find out a little more....For now, I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I also was offered a highly profitable babysitting gig for a week or two, and I'm hoping that my crazy schedule will allow room for it.....Because I'm still the Marketing Manager for the textile company, and I am in the middle of four or five projects with that job! AHH, my life is crazy right now, but I'm so digging it!
I had rehearsal for Oklahoma! again this weekend, and it was perfect...I can't even explain how much I love doing this stuff. As frustrating as musical mistakes can be to me, I love them all the same. It's all part of the process. (Being an INTJ, the process itself is almost more important than the outcome to me.) I also began rehearsals for Choral Society this week. That's one that I'm not entirely sure I can fully commit to. I'm going to try to stick through the whole season, but I don't yet know if the rest of my schedule will allow room for it. I'm pushing for it though :)
This coming weekend is my first college audition, for UNC Chapel Hill. I'm not very nervous...I don't really get nervous for things anymore, but I am very excited. I get to stay with my mom in Cary for the weekend, which will be awesome because I haven't seen my other family in a while. For my audition, I'm going to sing:
1. "Per La Gloria D'adorarvi" by Giovanni Battista Bononcini
2. "Mein Herr" from the musical "Cabaret"
3. "Angels Ever Bright And Fair" by George Frideric Handel
Not that really any of you know any of these songs....but they're pretty popular in the Classical world, haha. Then the next weekend, I'm headed to Boone to stay with my Aunt Shirley for my audition for Appalachian State University. I'm singing different songs for that audition (because different schools have different audition requirements).
Another great thing to mention is my training for the SLO Triathlon in July. My training has been going surprisingly well this week, and I have been improving more quickly than I had expected. At least in the swimming. I still hate running, but I'm doing it anyways, and I haven't started the biking yet. I'm going to incorporate that soon, after I get a better hang of the running. I didn't think I would, but I'm actually very much enjoying the training! It's great so far, and I'm already planning for some 5ks next month :)
Well, I need to go prepare myself for the busy week ahead of me.
CLG
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