I got a chance to go back in time a bit today. I learned that my old piano teacher passed away earlier this year. Dr. McCollom was my teacher for two years in college and an advocate before that through a keyboard camp I attended at our local University. I came to him as a self-taught pianist and he enriched my life with training. He was instrumental in helping me become a college piano major at age 15. And I remember how he’d shake his head and tell me, “I’m going to break your bad habits if it’s the last thing I do!” Because, you know, I was self-taught, et all. He was really good for me. And he helped get me some music scholarships too. (Some of you might remember that a good part of my early life was spent as a musician, playing piano, composing my own works, competing in performance.)
Thinking on old days of piano and music theory brought me to memories of the 2nd college I attended and music performances on stage for dances. And I’ve found myself listening to the work of fellow musicians I went to school with. Seeing how far they’ve come.
So, I was thinking that tonight I wanted to introduce you to some of the piano talent I know.
Meet David Michael Bilowus, my choir director from college 25 years ago. (When I headed off to my 2nd college and spent a year in CA, I also joined choir.) Mr. Bilowus was a great choir director for us, has always been a talented pianist and one of the kindest of gentlemen I’ve ever known. Later I worked for the university Music Department and got to know him further. I haven’t really seen him since those days, but a fellow college bud alerted us to his YouTube channel.
Mr. Bilowus’ music has a nice easy style and I just can’t get over how beautifully filmed this particular music video is. Kudos to the director and much jealousy on my part. Now I want to set up my piano outside in the woods to play. Only I don’t think the prickly pear around here would seem quite as romantic as his backdrop.
This next video is from a fellow student and friend I went to college with, Rachel Currea. Rachel is incredibly beautiful and talented. In school, I couldn’t help but be jealous of her training and obvious command of technique. Just incredibly talented and trained. I’m so happy to see that she has truly continued her art and performs and records her music today. Take a listen, you’ll see instantly what I mean. Rachel impeccably stands out among the rest. If you’re having a tough day, I dare you to listen and see how you feel after. If you like this and want to hear more, you can find Rachel Currea’s music on Amazon
So there you have it, I present beautiful music. And head off to bed pondering about other fellow musicians and the repairs my two antique pianos both need.
It’s time I get those fixed and sit down to the keys again.
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