Hochstein Board Member Eric Logan is the grandparent of former Hochstein students, an occasional bass addition to Hochstein’s treble choir ensembles, and emcee at Hochstein’s Holiday Prism concert. But until recently, he wasn’t a Hochstein student. Here he is to tell us more in his own words …
I’ve long been enamored with the sound of the cello … the richness of the sound … the range of notes and expression … but why now?
As a professional vocalist and rudimentary pianist/organist/keyboardist, most if not all of the musical “space” in my life has already been occupied. The cello however has been on my bucket list for some time. When Kathy Kemp (my instructor and Assistant Principal Cello of the RPO) heard of my desire, she was very encouraging. I was interested, but I didn’t know when I could fit it in. Then COVID-19 happened and suddenly I had a little more time on my hands.
My vocal coach, Paulette Gissendanner, is also a cello student of Kathy’s and she suggested that I reconsider. Frankly, she loaned me her beginner’s cello, thereby removing any remaining obstacles about pursuing lessons.
At first it seemed daunting. There were familiar terms and some totally new to me (ask about “the frog”). I felt like someone holding a baby for the first time. How do you even hold it and not break it? Kathy and other cellists I’ve seen made it look so easy. In my head, I wanted to be Yo-Yo Ma from the beginning. Ha! As a musician, I knew there would be many hours of practice between where I am now and competence with the instrument.
With a few lessons completed, I am grateful for the prompting and encouragement to do this. Kathy is patient, thorough, and enthusiastic to share her love of the instrument with her students. She is a natural and gifted teacher. With the COVID-19 restrictions, our lessons have been virtual and yet still effective. I am learning to be patient with myself and incorporate the rehearsal disciplines needed for steady improvement.
Would I recommend this to you? Absolutely! Developing or growing musical skills is a good thing, regardless of age. You may find your new passion!