What an interesting thread. For whatever reasons, sometimes we need to abandon where we are and step into a new world. We can always go back!!! I'm taking a sabbatical from teaching singing full time in the coming school year. I sent out very nice letters to my students and am helping those who wish to continue find another teacher. I have been teaching students from age 8 - senior citizens and it's become very draining. In the city where I live, there are no other studios that offer such a variety of classes as ours (we're into the triple threat performing arts scenerio...singing/ dancing/acting) and I truly believe that I have taught so much for the last 5 years out of a sense of guilt because there's no where else in our city where kids can get these 3 disciplines combined as we do. I believe it's essential for singers to be able to act and move on stage no matter the genre of music they choose. We teach musical theatre, classical and even some "pop" (I use the term loosely). I have felt that my creativity as a writer and composer has been stifled for a long time and I am taking this year to submit my 6 plays to publishers and theatres as well as write the children's book that I have had on the back burner. I also long to write original music for my gospel choir and do some of my own arrangements. I chose to take a sabbatical because I do not know what will happen after a year. I know our business will see a substantial drop in money from the absence of all my students but we feel that it is time for this. I may be rejuvenated for teaching the following year or I may decide that I have, in fact, moved in a new direction. I agree with Wim...you have to do something you love which far outweighs the money. And remember...you can always change you mind back again. Jacqueline www.tbmall.com/slightlyoffbroadway (gifts/costumes/classes & more) Read my articles at: www.suite101.com/welcome.cfm/musical_theatre and www.musicaltheatreinfo.com
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