Seize the Moment (Part 2). Pay the Price!

Thursday - Friday, August 3 - 4, 2022 - Recording days

Kirstin and I arrived at the studio around 8:45 AM, with plenty of time to meet our producer/arranger, recording engineer and become familiar with our surroundings and get ready to capture the music.

The steps leading up to the studio had an interesting inscription in them. Kirstin said, "Wonder Woman," as she stepped up to snap a picture. It probably actually stood for Wildwood (the name of the studio), but I liked her description better. 

Only a wonder woman could have managed the intricate balancing act she undertook in the days leading up to this momentous occasion. With the responsibilities of caring for three children, three non-musical feline companions, a faithful canine friend, a roster of oboe students both in her private studio and across multiple educational institutions, and her commitments as a seasoned performer in various symphonies and trios, the sheer magnitude of her achievements becomes evident. And to top it all off, she expertly crafts her own reeds.

We were warmly welcomed by Phillip Keveren, our arranger and producer. The significance of this moment as a pianist is beyond words. My familiarity with Phillip's arrangements and piano compositions had grown through my involvement with Ed Kee and the collaborative Portraits of White annual concerts. Our connection led us to incorporate some of Phillip's pieces into these events. In 2019, Double Keyed engaged Phillip to craft an arrangement of "I Wonder as I Wander," spotlighting piano and oboe.

Admiring his musical prowess and talents, I was an ardent admirer of Phillip's work. The realization that he would be arranging an entire album for us, while also serving as the producer, was nothing short of a dream actualized—a dream I hadn't even dared to anticipate. Kirstin's aspiration had unexpectedly paved the way for me to collaborate with a true idol of mine. 

This experience reinforces the truth that pursuing our aspirations often extends its rewards to others. In this instance, I was undoubtedly reaping the rewards of Kirstin's bold pursuit.

Earlier that morning, prior to our arrival at the studio, I had been engrossed in a motivational message that consistently aids me in maintaining focus on my overarching life goals and daily objectives. My journal entries, captured in their unedited authenticity, mirror the notes I hastily transcribed from the impactful message—an approach I regularly follow. These journal entries also encapsulate my introspective musings during our inaugural day as Double Keyed within the studio.

🎶

Dr. David Fink, M.D., said, "Pay the price."

1. Set a goal.

2. Quit running yourself down.

3. Stop thinking of all the reasons you can't be successful and think of all the reasons why you can.

4. Trace your attitudes back to your childhood and try to discover where you first got the idea that you couldn't be successful if that's the way you've been thinking.

5. Change the image you have of yourself by writing out a description of the person you would like to be.

6. Act the part of the successful person you have decided to become.

– Earl Nightingale, The Strangest Secret

🎶

Five songs done today:

• O Come, O Come Emmanuel - Gorgeous
• O Holy Night 
• What Child is This?
• I Wonder - surprised by how difficult this was - reed issues [Kirstin had cautioned me about the capricious nature of reeds, not to mention the temperamental disposition of the oboe itself. As I observed the situation firsthand, I gained a deeper appreciation for the immense pressure she must have been under while recording, solely from this vantage point.]
• In the Bleak Midwinter - Beautiful!

🎶

A few comments I heard today:

"This is going to be a fun day!" - Phillip and Kent said to each other [after Kirstin and I warmed up with O Come O Come Emmanuel].

"Frances, you and that piano are talking to each other." (PK)

"This is going to be a world class project." (PK) I smiled inside - since one of my goals has been to be a world class performer. :-)

"Frances, you have really risen to the challenge." (PK) [Coming from a renowned pianist himself, I was exceptionally grateful to hear this. It was no small feat to record in front of him, while he sat in the control room listening to every note I played.]

"These two [performers] did something we don't often see – they came prepared." [PK said to Ed Kee, who stopped by the studio for a visit.]

🎶

I felt as if my practicing paid off – in so many ways. I wanted to not be the weak link. I held my own. I played in the presence of a master, and didn't fall apart.

"This piano is like a race car that doesn't want to stick with the speed limit." Steve (studio owner) liked that – they all laughed – they'd never heard that analogy... he said that was language he could understand. :-)

🎶

At the end of the two days, I reflected further:

• Sat down and debriefed our experience. Looked at pictures from the photo shoot. 

At first, we were having trouble remembering all the 'rules'.

Chin out... head down

 (and then there were those dreaded hot flashes)

• Walked around Franklin. Young group of string players serenaded us. Violinist on the corner down the street. Meat platter at Pucketts... sweet tea... Ice cream/yogurt at Sweet CeCe's.

• Came back and fed the cat our [leftover] chicken. 

• Talked to Kim, Jack's wife. He had tongue cancer. :-( They used to live on N. Berry's Chapel [near the studio where we recorded] - bought this property later [Airbnb].

• Helicopters
• Turkeys
• Shooting Turkeys
• Deer
• Georgia the cat
• Hank, Diggy - horses
• Chickens
• Photo shoot password: fan :-) hot flashes

🎶

It was obvious that Kirstin was blown away by the whole experience... couldn't articulate all she was feeling, but I understood. It's unexplainable. Unless you go through it, there are no words. I was just incredibly grateful to be back. Never thought it would happen - and SO delightful. The music, the piano, the people – Kent and Steve [and Phillip] - SO much fun.

We're both concerned about I Wonder... and it puzzles me because that one was the least of our concerns. Oh well. They assured us that once they mix, eq and master it, it will sound amazing. [And it did... I don't know what we were so worried about!]

I cried often when they would play the songs back to us in the studio. It moves me – the lonely sound of the oboe, the richness of the English horn. I had to keep myself together. The opportunity to play this incredible piano – the best in town?! Wow!! Just wow!!

🎶

And then...

Kent Hooper's impeccable mixing and mastering skills brought our collection of classics to life, infusing them with a captivating blend of sound. Paired with Phillip's heartfelt arrangements, their collaboration transformed our project into a harmonious masterpiece. 

With a title that eloquently captured our journey and an exquisite album cover that perfectly complemented the music, our artistic endeavor was truly fulfilled. The project reached its culmination, leaving us with a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

On November 4,  2022, Midwinter's Gift took wings and flew into the world. 

On Monday, November 14, I woke up to an email:

Hello,

Double Keyed (Frances Drost & Kirstin Myers) “Midwinter's Gift” is charting on our Classical Crossover chart tomorrow.

CD 195269192372

Also hoping you can have a copy of the CD sent to me so we can archive.

Thanks so much and stay safe.

Alex Vitoulis

Billboard Magazine

Associate Director Charts Production Manager/Archive Research Manager

Chart Manager: Blues, Classical, Comedy, Jazz, Kid Audio, Music Video, New Age, Reggae, Vinyl & World

Recaps Assistant

475 FIFTH AVENUE, 4th Floor, NEW YORK, NY 10017

Email: alex.vitoulis@billboard.com

Mobile:516-317-0552 | Twitter: @jawsfin

IM:Alex V BPI

www.billboard.com

www.billboard.com/business

In January 2023, Midwinter's Gift was nominated for Instrumental Album of the Year, receiving a 2022 Spot Award for Best Classical/Crossover from Central Pennsylvania Music Awards. 

What are we going to do next?

                                                                 🎶

On the heels of their Billboard-charting and award winning album, Midwinter’s Gift, Kirstin Myers and Frances Drost as the duo Double Keyed continue to delight audiences with their heartfelt interpretations of both classical and contemporary music.  Their unique and contemplative sound takes the listener on a journey that resonates long after their performances.

In 2018, Kirstin and Frances formed Double Keyed when they realized that they both had a desire to not only perform together, but to touch others with their music in an uplifting way that leaves them in a reflective state of peace.

Their first album, Midwinter’s Gift, was recorded in 2022 in Nashville, TN and in November of that same year it was nationally recognized by reaching #13 on Billboard’s “Classical-Crossover” chart. A few months later, it was nominated by the Central Pennsylvania Hall of Fame for “Best Instrumental Album of the Year” and was also awarded “Best Classical-Crossover Album” of 2022.

Oboist Kirstin Myers holds degrees in both performance and education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and was also a summa cum laude graduate of Michigan State University in oboe performance. Since the year 2000, Kirstin has been on the faculty of Millersville University and York College and in 2016 was appointed to the faculty of Lebanon Valley College. She is a 26-year member of the York Symphony Orchestra and also plays with local groups like Berks Sinfonietta and the Reading Pops Orchestra. In addition, she maintains a large private music studio for oboe and piano students in both Lancaster and York counties and hosts a podcast featuring local musicians called Life Between the Notes.

Award-winning singer/songwriter Frances Drost is a pianist and concert artist who began her own company, Musical Creations, as a way to encourage people on their journey through life. Take years of life experiences distilled into “three minute messages” of lyric and melody, interwoven with story-telling in between and you get the unique ministry of Frances. As both a singer and songwriter, Frances has a unique way of presenting real-life experiences and meaningful messages that are gently woven throughout her music. 

You can find more about Kirstin at kirstinmyersoboe.com and Frances at francesdrost.com.

Midwinter’s Gift is available on CD as well as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and many other streaming services. You can purchase the CD here.

Midwinter's Gift Nominated For Instrumental Album of The Year

Just when we thought we were done with the Christmas season hustle and bustle of releasing a new album… Kirstin Myers and I, as Double Keyed, were nominated for Instrumental Album of the Year. 

On Sunday, (January 15, 2023), in another shocking turn of events, 𝕄𝕚𝕕𝕨𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣’𝕤 𝔾𝕚𝕗𝕥 was announced as a nominee for the Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame “Instrumental Album of the Year”!! We give a HUGE thanks to whoever put us in their Board of Director’s radar because this certainly wasn’t on ours!

One really great thing about this is that YOU can tangibly help us because…

There is a fan voting component!

Click HERE to vote for Midwinter's Gift. 

ANYONE CAN VOTE! Fan voting runs from through 11:59 am on 1/31/23. One vote per person per device. 

"The CMPAs are not designed to be determined solely by the popular vote. The 42-person, professional panel of CPMHOF Board of Directors and the Advisory Committee vote based on overall quality and 2022 accomplishments." — CMPA website.

𝕄𝕚𝕕𝕨𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣’𝕤 𝔾𝕚𝕗𝕥 has literally been the gift that keeps on giving. We are so proud and grateful to have had the opportunity, experience, connection and recognition that this album has brought us. From cookies to Billboard…we are simply stunned.

Please vote (and share!) if you feel so moved and THANK YOU so much for your continuous support

In The Bleak Midwinter

 

I'll never forget the day my producer, Eric Copeland pointed out my frequent mention of death in my songwriting. "You write a lot of songs about death," he said. This was news to me. He jokingly suggested that my name could be "The Grateful Dead". Of course, I didn't know who they were. I laughed as if I did. Fast forward to November 2022. Double Keyed (Kirstin and Frances) landed a spot on the Billboard charts. You can probably imagine how excited we were (and still are). I feel like I'm the big sister of the two of us and believe me, I'm very proud of my little sister! However, we've been bumped off the charts by—of all things—a dead man. I find this hilarious . . . given my history. Sorry Kirstin. Oh well. Since we don't know what we did to get on the charts in the first place, we figure maybe we'll appear again! Either way, we are still recovering from the shock of placing ANYWHERE and we're very much alive. We DO know that your streaming and purchases through online sources helps us dance around the charts. :-) Thank you!

Our first tour date! Yesterday started our official concert schedule as recording artists. Today, we will be recording an interview at WITF in Harrisburg, PA. We'll let you know when it's released.

How we came up with the title, Midwinter's Gift. Midwinter was a title that presented itself early on when we were incubating the album. Based on the lovely song, In The Bleak Midwinter, written in the 1800's, we knew we wanted this song on the project. From the very beginning, we both felt as if this album creation was a gift to each other as musicians. Putting the words midwinter and gift together seemed like a natural progression. You'll appreciate the unfolding of the journey from bleakness to beauty in this new video featuring the title track. "In the bleak midwinter, Frosty wind made moan, Earth stood hard as iron, Water like a stone; Snow had fallen, snow on snow, Snow on snow, In the bleak midwinter, Long ago." — Christina Georgiana Rossetti (1830-1894)

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Inspire Midwinter's Gift Album

The new Christmas album, Midwinter's Gift was inspired by the waft of peanut butter blossom cookies. Really!!

It all started when my friend, Kirstin Myers (oboist) was baking Christmas cookies for her family last December. Being a busy oboist, performing in various symphonies in the South Central Pennsylvania region, she didn't have time to bake cookies until AFTER the holidays. She had been too busy making music for everyone else's Christmas celebrations. We had originally met—because of Christmas—when Kirstin was hired to play oboe in my annual Portraits of White Winter Concert orchestra.

So there she was, the day after Christmas, making cookies. She confesses that she may have been devouring the Hershey kisses before they even made it to the blossoms. She was also listening to her favorite music playlists—for three solid days in a row. 

In the midst of this baking, nibbling and listening frenzy, while waiting for a batch of cookies to finish baking, she was struck with some nagging yet intriguing observations . . . that she says went something like this:

"There were no oboe tunes popping up on my Spotify."

Perhaps oboists need more quality Christmas music. 

Scrolling through Spotify for ‘oboe’ and ‘Christmas’ and not finding much . . .

"Wouldn’t it be cool to create more?"

"What if I could record an album?"

No, you can’t do that. Take the burning cookies out of the oven.

"But what if I could? It would be something I could give the kids."

Eat more cookie dough.

"Who knows how to record an album? Who could I do it with?"

My friend, the piano player, Frances.

(Kirstin and I [Frances] had already formed a duo called Double Keyed and were enjoying performing together until COVID brought our in-person performances to a jarring halt.)

After running through many more doubts in her head, Kirstin texted me. 

Fortunately, I took screen shots of our conversation. I had a feeling I'd want to keep a record—pun intended.

This text was followed by some banter about money, potential arrangers . . .etc., etc., and I knew it would get to be a long conversation by text, so I suggested we meet for coffee to talk details . . .

After we met for coffee, I began thinking about places we could stay in Nashville, if we ended up doing a project there. I texted Kirstin with more ideas . . .

Fast forward to August and we were on our way to Wildwood Recording in Franklin, Tennessee to record our project. At the recommendation of our arranger and producer, Nashville's own Phillip Keveren, we chose this studio because Phillip said it's the best Yamaha piano in Nashville! Being a piano player, I was concerned about finding a great piano for our project. 

Phillip was right—the piano was incredible. At one point, I said, "This piano is like a race car that doesn't want to stick with the speed limit." The guys liked that analogy.

Frances warms up on the Yamaha, August 3, 2022.

Long story short, the little somewhat obscure oboe is now making a splash! Even the English horn got to be a part of the production on three songs; O Holy Night, What Child is This? and O Come, O Come, Emmanuel—which ended up being the first song we recorded on our two-day recording spree. I remember Phillip's comment after we played his hauntingly beautiful arrangement of this 15th Century song. "This project is going to be world-class," he said confidently. My heart tried to absorb the words. It was uncanny that he used this particular phrase.

I've always wanted to be a world-class performer. I only tell you this because I'm learning that setting goals is such a key to getting where you want to go and becoming the person you want to be. I had decided years ago that one of my goals as a singer-songwriter and pianist, was to become world-class. It was a goal that I knew would always keep me motivated to improve—even if it took me a lifetime to achieve. So you can see how hearing this comment was monumental for me. 

But we had nine more songs to go! In the moment, I had to keep focused. 

You see, I was facing the challenge of playing the piano in front of the arranger of the music (and the producer of the album) with him sitting in the control room, listening to me. I also knew that he himself is a very gifted pianist. His Sojourner project with The London Symphony Orchestra is one of the most beautiful albums of all times, in my opinion! 

Knowing I would be recording in the presence of a master craftsman, I had been strategically conditioning my mind to focus for the seven months leading up to this moment. Not only had I been practicing the technicalities and musicality of the arrangements we commissioned Phillip to create, but I had been practicing overcoming the trepidation and downright terrification (a word I made up during this season) of playing in front of him. I had moments of sheer terror while practicing. I had to learn to ignore those monsters so I could support Kirstin without falling apart when recording day came and the engineer would push the record button.

Hearing Phillip's genuine comment after our first song was a beautiful gift and a perfect way to start off the two days of recording. He was fabulous to work with!

Kirstin Myers (oboe, English horn), Kent Hooper (Recording engineer), Phillip Keveren (Arranger, producer), Frances Drost (pianist)
August 5, 2022

By November 4, 2022, we had our new Christmas album, Midwinter's Gift ready for release on Bandcamp and many streaming sites, including—of ALL places—Spotify. People responded. In fact, by November 15 (just 11 days after release day) we discovered we had charted at No. 13 on Billboard's Classical Crossover Album chart. 

After waking up on a Monday morning to an email notification from Alex at Billboard, I texted Kirstin and told her to check her email. I had forwarded the big news to her.

Now, Kirstin and I are very busy getting ready to tour, responding to sweet comments, filling orders and enjoying building a listener base on Spotify! We have filled that void and now Kirstin won't need to scroll through Spotify this Christmas looking for soothing, inspiring, elegant and classy oboe music. Way to go my friend! You've done it . . . and in world-class fashion.

Midwinter's Gift is our gift, first to ourselves as musicians, secondly to our families and the most fun surprise gift of all—a placement on the Billboard charts!

We think there might be something special about peanut butter blossom cookies . . . or maybe it's as simple as having an idea, setting a goal, following it through, giving it wings and watching it soar. Is that simple?!

Double Keyed is having fun watching our album help the world fall in love with double reeds. 

P.S. The instrument Kirstin is holding on the album cover is her English horn. The oboe is working through a bit of envy since it didn't make the front cover—but wants us to know that it is truly happy for the success of the English horn and is thrilled to be on Spotify.

You can order Midwinter's Gift CD here.

You can also find us pretty much everywhere on streaming services.

Cover photo and album artwork by Erick Anderson Photography, Nashville, TN

I wonder what kind of cookies Kirstin will be baking this December? ;-)