Swan Lake

Today is Father's Day and I am so lucky to have such a wonderful dad! When I think about my dad I think about all the stories he used to tell me and all the books he used to read to me when I was a little girl. So many of them I can still remember to this day, but my favorite book he read to me was Swan Lake. It was so magical and I looked forward to those nights most of all. I can still see the beautiful illustrations in my mind. I am sure that's why Swan Lake has always been my favorite ballet :) 

The music that Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky wrote to Swan Lake is some of the most beautiful music I have ever heard. Even when I was a little girl, my sister and I would dance around and put on shows to it and I just couldn't get enough! When my sister and I were working on our ballet book together I really wanted to create a song that combined parts of Swan Lake and The Nutcracker.......(its hard for me to explain why without giving away any spoilers so just know that combining the two is very important) Let me just say that this is hands down my favorite part in the entire book. It is SO awesome!

 This song is definitely the hardest piece I've ever done. It was extremely challenging in many ways. First, I had to figure out how to even play the music from both of these ballet's. Then I had to choose what themes I wanted to use and find a way to combine them all together in a natural way so they would flow and not sound awkward or random. I spent more time on this song then any other song I've ever worked on and I think it paid off. I really love it because both of these ballets mean everything me! Performing in Ballet West's Nutcracker for so many years with my sister is some of the most magical times I had dancing and I know that my love for Swan Lake is because of my dad. I love you pa! This one is dedicated to you. Thank you for reading to me and for creating a wonderful love and bond between us. I'm so lucky to have you as my dad. 

While you listen, see if you can hear when it's Swan Lake and when it is The Nutcracker......or when its both! Haha! Hope you enjoy it and I hope you all have a wonderful and Happy Father's Day :) 

Download Swan Lake Medley here or listen to it on my Music page.