Emily,

      Gosh – where to begin?  First of all, I thought you sounded angelic last night.  Your voice absolutely soared, and I looked forward to you singing every time (especially after I knew you had worked out the kinks!)  I think that with the right state of mind, a healthy dose of determination, and the willingness to work harder than you have ever worked before you will be a successful performance major.  I say all of that because I believe you already have the instrument.  Will you refine and make it better?  Ohhhh yeah… but… I believe you really are talented.  Just remember that this major will not be a walk in the park.  If it ever feels that way, just remember to give yourself a very swift kick – QUICKLY – before you settle in on the wrong path.

     Emily, I hope that you are finding ways to pick up your grades.  I am sorry to hear how you have been doing.  Here is the thing – it is never too late to turn things around.  Make a decision that you are going to make 4^th quarter your finest.  Do it for yourself.  Do it to ready yourself for what is coming in the fall.  I know you can do it, Emily.  Just buckle down and work hard.  You are NOT a failure.  You are an outstanding human being with capabilities far beyond what you are able to comprehend.

     With all sincerity, let’s make this last quarter our best time together in choir.  It will mean that we all will have to lift ourselves to a higher plain on a daily basis, but I believe we are capable.  If we succeed, we will remember it forever.  You are fortunate to be part of a wonderful senior class.  Let’s finish it in a memorable way.