Colorado Christian University (2006 - 2007)
Unpacking my things
I'll never forget my first day at CCU.
I can't deny that I was anxious - there's just something about "going off to college," even though technically, I'd already completed two years. My folks and I were on our way to Minnesota for a family reunion, so we had to stop by the school to drop off my things. We stayed the night before at a local campground so that we could begin the roadtrip as soon as possible, assuming that it would take the same hour and a half to unpack as it did to load everything into the SUV.
When morning came, I was the first new student to arrive at the dorms. About 30 current students were standing out front, all cheering and jumping around - what a welcome! With all of the extra pairs of hands, I was moved into my new room in about 7 minutes, and we were on our way shortly after.
I suppose that this is common practice at most college campuses, but I can't tell you how blessed and welcome I felt!
CCU Band
During the final enrollment process, my dad noticed a flyer for auditioning for the CCU Music program. I was wary to sign up, because I neglected to practice during the summer, and didn't feel that I could audition without making a complete fool of myself. But he encouraged me to try anyway. After all, the worst they could say was no.
I've never been one to confidently play in front of others, so the idea of performing before a stranger didn't exactly excite me. But I went through with it, and by the grace of God, Mark Dorn, professor of music, saw potential in me, and I was accepted into both the wind ensemble and the jazz band.
I must say that band is one of my favorite aspects of CCU, and I'm so glad that I answered that particular call on my life.
And now, by the wonders of modern technology, you can listen to our music - just click on the song titles below to listen to our performances!
(note that you will be redirected to another website)
Wind Ensemble
(FTM Studio Recording)
1. Cajun Folk Songs - La Belle et le Capitaine (3:27) <-- A nice way to start off....
2. Cajun Folk Songs - Belle (3:23) <-- A fun, dance-like tune.
3. Scootin' On Hardrock (8:23) <-- You've GOT to hear this one!
4. October (7:26) <-- An absolutely gorgeous piece....
5. Between the Two Rivers (15:33) <-- I'm in two duets and have a few small solos!
6. Moorside March (4:06) <-- A great British march.
Mainstream Jazz
(FTM Studio Recording)
1. Strike up the Band (4:37) <-- Gershwin, like you've never heard him before.
2. It's Only a Paper Moon (2:23) <-- An easy swing melody.
3. Knock on Wood (7:35) <-- Good ole' Motown tune.
4. Well You Needn't (6:01) <-- Features my director, Mark Dorn.
5. Body and Soul (4:14) <-- Features my friend, Colten, on sax.
6. Chega de Saudade (3:44) <-- Features my friend, Chelsea, on vocals.
7. When Sunny Gets Blue (5:00) <-- A special duet with student, David, and my director.
8. Minuano (7:55) <-- An INCREDIBLE song - you must have a listen!
(10 November 2006)
A little rough as this was our first concert of the year, but fun music!
1. Things Ain't What They Used to Be (3:21) <-- And as we say, "they never were!"
2. Orilla Del Mar (6:13) <-- A smooth samba.
3. Swee' Pea (5:50) <-- It doesn't get any more laid back than this.
4. It Don't Mean a Thing (3:31) <-- Features the vocal jazz ensemble
5. Flight to Augusta (8:09) <-- Can we say, "funk"?
6. A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square (10:14) <-- A beautiful ballad.
7. Blues and the Abstract Truth (15:32) <-- Drum duel!!!!!!!!!!!
The First Snow
Ironically, about half of the CCU band is from Texas, most of which have never seen snow before. What a pleasure it was to watch them frolicking in the cottony precipitation! It reminded me of my own first encounter with snow in 2nd grade, and I thanked God for giving us such wonderful things as those first-time experiences that can't be described as anything less than magical!
Texas Tour
The Great Spelunking and Cemetery Adventure
The National Undergraduate Literature Conference
Published Works
Poetry