Happy Canada Day Everyone! I have posted the virtual ensemble video on teams. Here is a link.
Some of you have also heard that I will not be returning to Byrne Creek next year, to many of you this will come as a surprise. I accepted a position in the last week of school to be a part of the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University. This is an exciting opportunity for me to develop new skills and face new challenges. A lot of you will know that continuing my growth as a musician and educator are of great importance to me. This next adventure is a bit scary but also very exciting. If it scares you a bit then it is often the world’s way of saying to do that thing (obviously with the exception of hurtful or illegal things), for me this is that thing. Dust off the old brain and become better, never stop learning and never stop challenging yourself. A past teacher of mine told me to "do something you are bad at everyday". Doing what is only comfortable and easy does not improve your skills; just as only lifting the easy weights at the gym or playing all of your video games on the beginner setting does nothing to your skills, maybe just your ego. You have all heard me make similar claims in class, now it's my turn to take my own advice. Keep practicing, keep creating, keep sharing and keep the community spirit alive in the music department. It is your department; I was given permission to be a part of it for 6 years, but like I’ve always said, "who is responsible for a great show? You are". Thank you for letting me be a part of the music program at Byrne Creek, the memories and experiences I have had and shared will be a part of who I am for the rest of my life. It has been a privilege and an honour to be your teacher.
Axford
