My Next Big Project

Last month when the kids were all just starting school, I had a ton of time on my hands. I like to be busy and have a lot of projects to do. For once, I had nothing. I had this feeling in the back of my mind, that it probably wouldn’t last, and that I should probably enjoy the peace. I’m glad I did. I even experienced boredom, for just a couple of hours one afternoon!

I am now head deep into another project. A musical. It’s a HUGE project! I had no idea of the scope of it, until I talked to Sally Johnson. I found her searching for some information for a fellow musician and composer, Merril Jenson. Instead I found Sally. She has recently finished a musical that she wrote for her ward. It followed after the challenge that President Hinckley gave, to read the Book of Mormon in a year. Following that year, Sally wanted to do something that would help people understand how great the Book of Mormon is, and how it applies personally to our lives. It was a huge project for her, though she did get some help from some wonderful musicians that live near her. Following their first performance, someone from the ward, told her that she would pay to have the music orchestrated. Merril Jenson did the score. The music is wonderful. Her website is at: ReceiveTheseThings.com. I read the script, and I was very impressed. She has made it available for anyone who would like to perform it for their own ward or stakes.

Sally told me she was willing to read the ideas for the musical I’ve been working on. So far it’s just ideas and a simple sketch of characters and plot. She gave me some really good feedback. I’ve changed almost all of my characters since then. I think the characters are really important in creating a good plot. It makes the story line keep changing. It’s an interesting challenge.

I get to go see “Wicked” next month. I’m so excited. I have the music from the CD memorized. I love it. I would love to write music that is so inspiring. My expectations for myself are way too high. Still, I like the challenge. I probably won’t be blogging more often. I’m still busy, but that’s the way I like it! =)