Someone asked me that today. I said “yes”, and then began to explain that well, I don’t know because it’s been awhile… But you know what? I am a musician. That’s who I am. It’s who I’ve always been. I’ve just been a musician who hasn’t been playing much, or developing my skills really. And now, that’s just what I’m going to do. Life’s short, and it’s urgent, and I just haven’t got the time any more not to do this. And the brilliant thing is that I actually now really do have the time to do it, to give it everything, to see just how good a pianist I can be. So from now on, if anyone asks, I am a musician!

Is it good that she said she expected worse? I finally played for Tamara today, after her lunchtime concert, which I very much enjoyed – music from the Balkans. I played most of the 1st movement of Beethoven’s Sonata No. 17, Op. 31 Nr. 2, the Tempest. Er, not quite like Mr Barenboim plays it.

In any case, I came away from meeting Tamara very reassured. She said it’s not at all unrealistic to set a goal of completing Grade 7 by the end of this year, and then applying for the Bachelor of Music Degree for 2011. She did say that I’ll need to work hard, develop my technique, sight-reading, etc. But she was happy with my touch and agility, so that’s good. Unfortunately, she doesn’t have the space to take me on as a student (darn!!!!!), and she said that if Kenji will take me, then that’s great. So that’s just what I’m going to do. Kenji has already reserved time next week for me to come for a lesson I think.

I’m so absolutely excited, and the part I am just jumping out of my skin about is… I’m on my way! Whaddaya reckon? Helene Goldberg, BMus? I do like the sound of that!

AND WHERE ARE YOU DAD!!!!!! I want to call you so badly to tell you all about this! I even looked outside our house as I pulled into the driveway to see if your car was there.