Page 23 - CC Life 13 2015 Spring

Music Administration Practicum
Esther Cheng
Music Major Junior
“Practicum” was once a course I was nervous about,
but it turned out to be a blessing. Not only did I learn
how to work on the administrative end of the music
industry, but I was also able to learn from the directors I were accepted. I was so thankful to the Lord
and administrators who live as role models. The
practicum inspired me to pursue excellence in playing
the piano, but it also opened my mind and gave me
a different vision of the music industry. I realized
that my music skills and my relational skills should
complement each other.
I was not excited about Practicum for several reasons.
First, this course takes place off campus where I have
to step out of my piano room and into the unfamiliar
world. Second, it was full of too many uncertainties. I
didn’t feel comfortable not knowing where I would be
doing my practicum or if I was capable of doing what I
was assigned. I was fearful of working with unfamiliar
people and relating to them. By God’s grace, even
though I didn’t know the future, He had prepared the
best path for me.
At the beginning of the semester while I was still
searching for an organization with which to do my
practicum, I attended a music guide session without
much advance notice. While people were chatting
afterwards, I heard the session leader say that he
believed God would raise up a group of musicians of
His own. My heart screamed to know more about this
organization. So, I went up to the executive
secretary of the foundation and volunteered as
their intern. To my surprise, both my friend and
for this opportunity to learn at a place where I
knew the people desired to work for the Lord.
On the first day of my practicum, the director
invited me to attend their prayer meeting. I
was thrilled. I started my practicum without
knowing exactly what I had gotten myself
into, but it was a spiritual journey and God
was leading. Part of my fear of working apart
from my piano was my lack of computer skills.
Fortunately, the people at the foundation were
all so friendly and helpful. Whenever I asked,
they patiently taught me. Their kindness really
relieved my stress and fear. I had not performed
many of those office tasks in the past and would
not have learned them without this practicum
opportunity. Now I know how much there is
to do behind the concert stage. I believe this
practicum is just a good beginning. As I keep
learning and growing, I am looking forward to
contributing more in the future. God has shaped
my path to so I will make music that brings Him
glory.