Gratitude: more than a Chris Potter album

I’m wrapping up another summer teaching at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, and coupled with some other happenings, I find myself a bit nostalgic; so naturally, I'm channelling this into a blog!(?) Anyway, Blue Lake has become one of my favorite places for numerous reasons, but mostly because I have meet great friends and colleagues during my eight summers here, made great music with these people, and thanks to my involvement with BLFAC, have been presented with opportunities that have really allowed me to pursue music as a career. And it’s picturesque and serene (see below) and a great place for some good ole’ self-reflection. With this, I’ve found myself thinking a bit about my path as a musician and educator.

The model of serenity.

The serious pursuit of music is, by nature, largely one of solitude. Between the countless hours spent in a practice room, the prospect of moving away from familiarity and comfort to pursue opportunities, or just the time spent reflecting on personal and professional growth – perhaps while sitting at a Starbucks in the Grand Rapids Mall at 8:30am, because you didn’t have the foresight to check what time stores open – the path to achieving success and fulfillment can feel desolate. But in reality, our journeys wouldn’t be possible without an amazing network of support and the relationships we develop, even if they may seem fleeting. With that, I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported my journey:

To my teachers – thank you for your knowledge, your patience, your perspective, your understanding, and in many instances, taking a chance. I wouldn’t be the musician I am today, nor the person, without all of your indelible guidance.

To my colleagues – at every point in my development I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by world-class musicians, educators, and human beings. From Grammy winners, to members of the planet’s most esteemed ensembles, to educators at premiere institutions at all levels, to those who ventured out to forge their own path; the success my colleagues and peers have found is a constant source of inspiration, and I’m beyond honored our paths crossed, even if ever so briefly.

To my friends, new and old – you all have shaped my humor, my taste in music, my understanding of the world beyond a practice room, included me in your life events, and in your unique own ways, supported my dreams and ambitions. It brings me indescribable joy to see the men and women you have become, and the new generation of men and women you are raising. If they ever are interested in learning the saxophone, please refer to my teaching page.

To my students – thank you for indulging in my pedagogical whims, which have helped me become the educator I am today. And thank you for your continued indulgence to help me become a better educator tomorrow (and beyond). When all is said and done, I’d like to think I’ve helped more than I hurt. Now go practice your scales (<--Not a joke).

To my family – you have been, and continue to be, my pillars. I cannot thank you enough for everything thing you have given me, most of all your unconditional love and support. I wish there was anything I could do to even begin to repay you – I hope a sentimental blog post is a good start? I love you all more than I probably ever express.

And thank you all for taking a minute out of your day to read this. Please enjoy the website! I hope to be providing updates regularly, and welcome any feedback you may have. Feel free to reach out to me through the contact page if you have any thoughts, or just want to say hello. -BR