UP-DATE ON BOBBY REUTER
Some parishioners have been asking how Bobby Reuter, who grew up singing and playing piano in our parish, has been doing since he moved to New York City last year. Here is an excerpt from a recent email from Bobby:
Greetings and salutations from NYC!
So sorry to do a mass email like this, but I wanted to let you all know that, firstly, I'm still alive (!), and, secondly, that I have a new mailing address. Just recently, I moved into a wonderful one-bedroom apartment in Astoria, Queens and will include the address at the end of this email. But first, a quick update!
This coming August, I will have been in New York City for a year -- can't believe I've survived this crazy city for this long! Since moving here, many wonderful and challenging things have happened. Last November, the stars aligned just right, and I got a job at the world's largest center for performing arts, Lincoln Center, at the Metropolitan Opera. Never in a million years did I think I would be working at the Met of all places, and bumping into the great singers, conductors, and musicians of our time. I must say working here makes it easier to get up in the morning!
I've also been blessed in getting a wonderful job at the über beautiful Church of St. Ignatius Loyola in downtown Manhattan. I'm involved with a number of the services and choirs doing a little bit of everything, from accompanying, directing, singing, and amidst all of these activities, I am collaborating with such fine musicians and conductors from whom I am learning much. In addition to the services, the church is home to the much acclaimed Sacred Music in a Sacred Space concert series, directed by Kent Tritle. Many works, both large and small, for piano, organ, orchestra, and choir are performed, and I am so happy to be able to participate in these marvelous concerts. The quality of music at this church is fantastic, and keeping with this quality has challenged me to improve my own musicianship and music-making ability. This challenge is worth it, and has been very rewarding so far.
Last, but by no means least, I am privileged to continue working for my mentor, teacher, and dear friend, composer Pamela Quist -- as her music copyist (or "music amanuensis", as she elegantly puts it). It is such a thrill and honor to provide musicians and singers with the means to bring her music to life. And it is equally intriguing and inspiring for me to be able to converse with her about the intricacies of her work!
With that, I think I will close with my new address. Please know that if you are ever in the New York City area, write or call me (email is probably the best way of getting in touch), and I would love to get together!
Kindest wishes
Bobby
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