As we come to the end of 2025, I will try one last time (my third attempt) for the Maryland State Arts Council Creativity Grant. I finally received feedback the end of October from my initial application that had some specifics I felt I could elaborate on. Writers Andrea Hoag and Jerri Bell looked over my application and made suggestions. I will receive the verdict the beginning of February. At this point I have to plan for less budget than hoped for. Cutting back on the number of tracks is about the only way to save. I have decided to cut one track and might cut more if I don't get more money. In the meantime, the cost of CD replicating has almost doubled (perhaps tariff related??)
Even if I don't get the grant, the process of applying for it has been a huge help for the recording. It forced me to create a clear timeline (which I have kept) and make decisions about tracks and order. It forced me to get and stay organized! I even have a CD Release concert date and venue–June 19th at the Church of the Ascension in Silver Spring, MD. Sophie Chang on cello and Paul will be performing with me. I look tot he new year for light and hope! Below is a bagpipe playing Santa that was in the Victorian house of Ginzy & Mark Lamprecht where I gave a Christmas concert earlier this month.
