News
2020: Year in Review
December 2020
Wrapping 2020 is nuanced as a creative business. Nuanced further when considering that art is informed by the artist itself. We have been challenged to adapt to an ever-changing climate, ever-changing news, and ever-changing outlook. Creatives do what we do as rejuvination and release, and its in art that we find ourselves. Or at least that is my experience. So in this way, 2020 is a mirror. What am I creating? What do I want to be creating? Let's look at 2020 through this lens.
I began 2020 working on a couple projects. First, I served as the Flute Wonders Coordinator for the 2020 Iowa Flute Festival at Iowa State University with the lovely Dr. Sonja Giles. This competition has a junior and senior division for young Iowa flute students. Next, I began a collaboration with local legendary guitarist and vocalist, who also happens to be my father, Tom Richards. We began selecting repertoire for a summer wedding gig. It was such a lovely joy to grow into freelancing artistry with the support of two trusted musical mentors.
Then March happened. Both of these projects were put on hold as we readjusted. The Iowa Flute Festival was ultimately cancelled, and the wedding was pushed to summer 2021.
A line comes to mind from a 20th Century Music History course: "art for art's sake." This has guided the rest of my 2020 musical endeavors. Why am I doing this? What do I want to be creating? After 5 years of intensive music school, this is a really excellent (and vulnerable) place to be.
Other 2020 projects included a collaboration with my partner, his mom and eventually a new pianist for a family wedding. Goal-setting, rebranding, and working on projects for 2021 have been the focus for the rest of my year, in addition to readjusting to wellness goals that influence the quality of art I am able to present.
So dear readers, we move into 2021 bearing the weight and opportunities 2020 afforded. I send warm wishes to you and those you hold close. May this new year bring new promise to you, and I look forward to 2021. Keep an eye out for a new Twitter platform and a limited number of spots opening in my flute studio early January 2021.
Best wishes,
Lydia