Happy New Year my fellow bloggers and subscribers. I hope each of you spent the holidays celebrating with family, friends and business associates. Now that the holidays have come to an end for 2018, I’m sure we’re ready to start fresh in 2019. Last year (not so long ago), I had the pleasure of celebrating many epic moments in my life while also overcoming some pretty difficult moments as well. I think it is essential to look at all the things that you’ve accomplished and take a moment to write a chapter in your book of life documenting some of the moments that you were most proud of. It’s also important to make note and reflect on the situations that could have been handled with a little extra care. Most importantly, celebrate all the wonderful memories that you’ve made during the previous year. To begin the New Year blog for 2019, I want to take a trip down memory lane and explore all the spectacular moments that impacted my spirit the most in twenty eighteen. Featured throughout the blog will be some photos from my first photoshoot of 2019.
My Sweet Sixteen Celebration
Turning sixteen is the defining moment where a little girl turns into a young woman/lady. At first, I didn’t want a huge birthday party because I believed that not many people would come to my party. However, my wonderful mother convinced me to throw a party ensuring me that this would be a magical moment I would never forget. And of course, she was right! I couldn’t imagine not having a special night like this one. The turnout exceeded my expectations. I hosted my party with such class and poise I never thought I was capable of. In that moment, I realized that I could achieve so much more than I gave myself credit for. The party was so much fun, and I wouldn’t change a thing about it.
My First Professional Role with Virginia Opera
This was one of the biggest highlights of my 2018. When I heard that I was going to be a part of Virginia Opera’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream as Mustardseed, I was ecstatic. I couldn’t believe that as a teenager I would already be a part of a professional opera production. The overall experience was quite eye-opening and developed my love for vocal performance. The team of professionals from the orchestra to the conductor all worked as a team to ensure every cast member was able to perform at their optimal level. The talented team of costumers and hair/makeup artists took care of every detail for every performance giving each of us the star treatment. Although there were so many high points and stellar moments, a show of this magnitude requires rigorous rehearsals and many long nights. During one of the rehearsals, I developed a nasty cough. However, I was determined to remain in the show. So, I went to the doctor and received medications so that I could get through the tour. Yes, it’s true “the show must go on.” From this moment, I learned that sometimes situations come up that will challenge you. But I learned how to conquer these obstacles and not let anything stop me from doing what I love. On top of that, I absorbed so much information from many of the professionals in the business like the conductor and the lead singers. Their insightful advice helped me to make my craft stronger. In the final production, when everything was polished, I built up so much confidence. Accomplishing the performance of a lifetime gave me the affirmation I needed that I could succeed in this industry. And of course, I’ve made so many connections and close relationships with members of the VOA. This is a moment that I’ll never forget.
My Role as Susanna Understudy in the Marriage of Figaro
Over the summer, I made a commitment to work extra hard to develop my vocal ability in hopes of getting a larger role for my junior year. I knew I would have to climb above a pyramid of older and more experienced singers, so I wanted to really challenge myself and prove that I could handle a more vocally demanding role. When death by aria came along, I felt unstoppable and I just let my voice echo through the walls. From there, I just hoped and prayed that my director noticed my growth and development and would give me a larger role in the opera. Then the day finally arrived, everyone huddled around the clipboard hanging on our department’s entrance door. I slowly crept up to the finalized list that would determine my fate for my junior year. My soul jumped for joy on the inside, but I kept my composure on the outside. I knew that with such a tremendous honor I needed to stay focused and not let the attention go to my head. The cover show is in March and I hope that rocking this monstrous role will be the highlight of 2019.
My Many Conversations with My Big Sis
The stresses of high school in general can be overwhelming and I believe that it’s essential to have a special someone to talk through your troubles with. I’ve always wanted a biological sister because I desired to have that personal connection with a girl who can relate to what I went through and give me reliable advice on how to handle the situation. I am so blessed to have Anyeé in my life, who I love as my big sister. On the last Sunday of 2018, we were able to catch up with each other. Just seeing her was so refreshing. The similarities between us makes it easy for her to understand what I’m going through in high school. Her advice during our private girl talks will be most valuable to me. Not just now, but for the rest of my life. She is also an amazing opera singer and is currently in graduate school continuing her studies in vocal performance. She has the heart and voice of an Angel.
2018 Holiday Parties With Family and Friends
Several celebrations occurred during the busy holiday season. There’s no better feeling than having the whole family home for the holidays. During Thanksgiving, my brother came home to visit us, and we had a wonderful time together. Since my brother entered the military, I take each opportunity he can take leave as a blessing. On Christmas I was blessed again to have spent time with my entire family. My soul gets warm inside when I see my family enjoying each other’s company and that I could just sit back and savor each moment with them. I also indulged in the holidays with a few of my classmates. It was refreshing to take a break from the rigorous school work. Every year at the GSA Vocal Christmas Party, we do a Secret Santa gift exchange and everyone loves to participate in this traditional gesture. I believe that each participant tried to put a good amount of thought into their gifts. It feels exhilarating that your classmates are willing to go out of their way to make your Christmas a little more special.
Hello Welcome to Flight #2019
We are prepared to take off into the New Year. Please make sure your Attitude & Blessings are secured & locked in an upright position. All self-destructive devices should be turned off at this time. All negativity, hurt & discouragement should be put away. Should we lose Altitude under pressure, during the flight, reach up & pull down a Prayer. Prayers will automatically be activated by Faith. Once your Faith is activated you can assist other passengers. There will be NO BAGGAGE allowed on this flight. The Captain (GOD) has cleared us for takeoff. Destination greatness & new beginnings!!! (A dear friend sent this to me-Author Unknown)
Gabrielle "Bri" Pinkney 