MUSIC
Abi Fletcher flautist from DSJ updates us on her lockdown experience Since the summer [when Abi featured in IDRBID magazine] I started my masters degree in Cologne (Germany). I moved to Cologne at the end of September to a lovely little flat. My landlords were very welcoming, they gave me apples from their garden and from hearing me practise for many hours in my room asked me to play at a couple of events for them. The first event was the landlord’s 70th birthday in a lovely little restaurant, and the next was a special Christmas party in an old castle for the local club. I invited my friend to come along; we played duets together, and thoroughly enjoyed the buffet after. As part of the Hochschule I took part in many orchestral projects and got involved with lots of chamber music. I took yoga every Wednesday morning at 8am, with flute classes every Monday evening, and weekly flute and piccolo lessons keeping me very busy. I took my A2 Deutsch exam (language qualification) at the end of January which was a big achievement for me as I studied for it on my own and with a little help from my German-speaking friend. This meant I could continue with my studies at the Hochschule. I came back to Deeping for the semester break (Feb-March) in February. I was supposed to return back to Cologne at the end of March but could not due to my flights being cancelled and the virus. I am still in the Deepings now, keeping busy with practice, painting, running, and even doing a bit of gardening! I’m having weekly flute and piccolo lessons from both my teachers in Germany over Skype - which is a very strange experience for both teacher and student. During lockdown I have done another wall painting in my parents’ hallway and a canvas painting which I have just sold. Before the lockdown I was having regular rehearsals with the NIA trio at the Royal Academy of Music in London. We had a concert booked in London for April but unfortunately this was cancelled. Using microphones and video I am currently working on a flute quartet piece with my friends from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. This should hopefully be finished in the next couple of weeks. I am enjoying my time at home with my family but am keen to get back to my studies!
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