This Week's Outro

I Wait

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:24:20 GMT

Until spring

My husband once bought me a star called, "Megan, Star of My Life" on my birthday. The star is only visible in the sky in the spring/summer/fall. It was his way of acknowledging that I’m only active in March-November, which admittedly, is true. I hate snow. I hate winter. I even hate the holidays associated with it. The only redeeming value that December-February bring to some extent is that I have a lot of people I love born during those months (especially my two boys).

I am writing my thoughts today because I’ve been inundated with scholarly research and work… all the while looking at the ever ending snow piles mounted outside of my home. It’s crazy to me how we had the opportunity to see grass for two days, only to get another snowstorm. It’s like that meme, “I can’t talk about it it right now…” through tears.

It has made consistent teaching quite the nuisance. While not as bad as the pandemic, it still is not as good as a complete week of sunshine and 40 degree weather either. It’s crazy to me that 45 degrees even feels like spring!

So like this Cardinal, I look for spring. I anxi ously w ait for it.

It can’t come soon enough.

Busy.All.The.Time

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 01:07:57 GMT

Doing all the things...

I can hear my mother's voice in my head (God rest her soul) "You're doing too much!" In truth, yes. I probably am. However, I don't think it is because I am a glutton for punishment, I think my disposition is just that... I work. When I don't work, I feel unproductive.

This is probably part and parcel to my personality. I can't help it. Growing up as an only child in a military household positioned me to really look at work being an essential element to life. I blame my father for that. He was so positioned to constantly be moving up (he was an officer after all) but nonetheless sometimes I really just wanted to sit. Not do. Just be.

Which admittedly, is really incredibly hard for me. I am currently in this really weird season. I mean REALLY weird. I'm an adjunct professor at two institutions (although one feels certainly full time). I maintain a robust private studio. I'm an active singer with certain weeks of the year allotted to rehearsals and performances. And... I'm in my first year of coursework for a PhD in English. Yes, you read that correctly.... a PhD in English.

This was of course the result of me wanting to get the proverbial monkey off of my back. I had neglected my English degree in undergraduate studies and stuck to singing. I don't regret the career shift per se, but I DID regret not getting my English degree.

This is why when I had a major self-reflection (as many people did) during the pandemic, I felt that something was missing. So, I applied to Millersville University to get my Graduate Writing Certificate to complete the degree. It was such an amazing experience I kept going and earned my masters degree in English. I then applied to Temple University to start my PhD in English.

I usually get the question, "Why the PhD in English?" Well, there are a few reasons... I won't list them all. However, the biggest reason is that it is really hard to disconnect words from the music that I sing. As a vocalist, my music is words. Words are what make texts come alive and the music correspondent to them are what tell the story. Therefore, I want to make those amazing connections that other musicians do not necessarily get to participate in because they are limited to notes on a page. I get the luxury of singing those notes with words.

There are so many novels, short stories, and poetry that have inspired many a song. I want to know more about those connections.

However, this quest for knowledge has beat me down a bit. I have felt the heaviness of imposter syndrome, not being there for my children, the weight of coursework while teaching that feels like full time. It's not been easy. And I'll be completely vulnerable for a sec, I've wanted to walk away several times. SEVERAL.

The unfortunate part is, I'm not quitter. If I'm anything, I'm tenacious - possibly to a fault... We will see how this plays out. I'm hoping my endless curiosity and love of researching the subjects I love will keep me grounded - along with my faith for the future which my mom always reminded me, "The future is bright for those who hope!"

Until Next Time,

Meg

A Review

meganebpoff@gmail.com (Megan EB Poff) — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 21:13:09 GMT

A Review: Titanic

To embark on uncharted territory, The Fulton Theatre produced Titanic which was made available to audiences April 20-May 21. This musical based on the ill-fated voyage of White Star Line’s most famous ship Titanic, was written by Peter Stone with music by Maury Yeston. The musical itself was first performed on Broadway in 1997 and has had a niche fan following since then. It was a risk for the Fulton Theatre to create this musical in their venue as it did not have the room nor mechanics to work with a sinking ship on stage. However, they managed to do just that by showcasing from beginning to end the departure, doomed iceberg encounter, inevitable sinking, and the Carpathia rescue.

Marc Robin who is the Executive Artistic Producer of Fulton Theatre was also the director and choreographer for the production, Titanic . He truly (no pun intended) took on a Titanic effort in this historic retell as it is a storyline centered not only about a maritime tragedy, but also revolves around various perspectives from the ship’s passengers. There is no central character.

The musical numbers - mostly ensemble in nature - were perfectly managed by musical director, Ray Fellman. While it could be argued that Captain Edward Smith (David Girolmo) Thomas Andrews (Kevin Earley), and J. Bruce Ismay (Eric Jon Mahlum) could have had some dominance as the primary characters, they were not written to be so. Therefore, Robin and Fellman effectively directed them in various positions throughout the show to highlight their importance as a trio: the captain of the ship, the ship’s architect, and owner of White Star Line. All were vocally present in their renditions of their real-life counterparts. However, Girolmo truly gave a steely performance in Act 1’s “The Largest Floating Object in the World” as his voice carried over in its deep timbre almost foreboding in nature. If anyone is going to remember a captain of a ship, it would be Titanic’s captain.

The remaining cast consisted of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class passengers who represented the Edwardian Era’s tier status when it came to wealth and opportunity. A majority of the ensemble that were positioned in steerage sang “A Lady’s Maid” which was headlined by the three Kates: Kate McGowan (Carolyn Anne Miller), Kate Murphy (Sarah Miramontes) and Kate Mullins (Kat Wolff). This was a cheeky homage to the common name of young female Irish immigrants. The positioning of the musicians was appropriate too. The 3rd class were known for bringing their instruments with them on board as they planned to “start over” in America. To showcase this, the pit orchestra were placed on stage so the pit could be used as an extension of the ship below deck. Therefore, the strings were able to play the lilting Irish tunes upon the stage while the performers danced alongside them. This was a clever way to make use of Fulton’s space. Another character, Barrett (Michael Nigro) also portrayed a member of Titanic’s crew as he was a stoker on the ship. Nigro’s solo performance of “Barrett’s Song” was so well received that the production had to pause due to the audience response. His voice was monumental which was a sharp contrast to his worn work clothes shoveling coal below deck.

To have such a historical and epic tragedy depicted on stage, one must have some lighter moments! This was made manifest by 2nd class couple, Alice Beane (Charis Leos) and Edgar (Blake Hammond). While the writing has Alice Beane (Charis Leos) hobnobbing with the upper class, Edgar (Blake Hammond) is embarrassed that he cannot control his wife’s impulses when it comes to socializing these elite members of society. Hammond’s comedic stance of perpetual frustration met with Leos’ witty responses caused riotous laughter for the patrons in the theatre. They were both phenomenal actors who sufficiently carried the comedic bravado needed to make the musical less depressing. Nonetheless, the ending is the ending, and it does end in complete tragedy.

The Fulton was genius in its depiction of the sinking of the ship and the many deaths of innocent lives. They did not tilt the stage and they did not try to use a huge set piece to make the ship disappear. They smartly used technology which was a wise choice. Upon the projection screen upstage you could see the ship tilting and leaning. The lighting on set gave a visual to the audience that it was moving to the depths of water, and one could say that the scenic/lighting designer Paul Black was Titanic’s MVP. It was a somber nod to the reality of what happened without being overtly macabre in nature.

Titanic the musical will always have a niche following as it did not always have an agreeable consensus from audiences due to its sensitive and historical content. However, this particular rendition was beautifully produced. The choice to focus more on the cast and less on set design gave more of a personal story to the Titanic. It remains a haunting musical and truly gives an appropriate homage to the victims and survivors of this April 14, 1912 tragedy.

Rating 5/5
- Megan Poff

A Review

Sat, 08 Jul 2023 21:02:37 GMT

A Review: Tuck Everlasting

Sight and Sound Conservatory which is the training program for up-and-coming actors and linked to Sight and Sound Theatres, is mostly known for its massive Biblical theatric al productions. However, fitting for the graduating class of 2023 they produced an intimate musical theatre work based on the novel Tuck Everlasting written by Natalie Babbitt. This particular theatrical work is appropriate for young adults as the themes heavily rely on immortality and the importance of appreciating time. Those familiar with the novel will make this connection through the musical theatre retell by Chris Miller (music) and Nathan Tyson (lyricist).

The performances of Tuck Everlasting set at Sight and Sound Conservatory were dated for May 22- 25, 2023, and were made available by Concord Theatricals for production rights. The show was formatted for two acts with a brief 15-minute intermission. The young cast was directed by veteran local actor Michael Lapham and produced by Jeff Bender. The roles that were the most important for the retelling of the story was Winnie Foster (Jessie Waters) and Jesse Tuck (Camden Roach). The remaining cast members consisted of the Tuck family: Miles Tuck (Bryan Willey), Angus Tuck (Connor Cagle) and Mae Tuck (Alyssa Vella) along with Man in the Yellow Suit (Garrett Vanni), Constable (Same Royster), Hugo Jackson (Marion Pelican), Winnie Foster’s Mother (Jacqui Schaeffer) and Nanna (Alainna Wiggington).

While the remaining actors played amazingly the parts they were given, the two main leads legitimately stole the show due to their chemistry on stage. It was heartbreaking storyline of young love thwarted due to eternal generational differences. Another essential character in the show by all measure was the set design created by Glen Broderson. This allowed for the two aforementioned actors, Jessie Waters (Winnie Foster) and Camden Roach (Jesse Tuck) to have a shared encounter with the fountain of youth which is an integral element to the storyline.

The use of the platforms on the set allowed for the actors to move about and display three areas of the community. On stage right was Winnie’s childhood home. Opposite, on stage left was Jesse Tuck’s family’s home. In the middle of the stage belies the harmonious town that was to bring unification and connection between the two main characters. However, we were presented with the Man in the Yellow Suit (Garrett Vanni) who seemingly wants to hunt for the fountain of youth. In other moments, the center of the stage became the actual fountain of youth which was propped high up from a leaning tree. This made the musical all the more aesthetically pleasing as it showcased the harmony of the two sides. It also allowed for the actors to work with varying levels of perspective. This was demonstrated in the song number “Top of the World.”

Due to the stage being on the same level as the audience, these higher platforms were necessary and provided good moments for the actors. Unfortunately, unless a patron was in the front row, they missed a good majority of the ensemble sequences especially when it came to numbers such as “Join the Parade” and “Seventeen.” This was an unfortunate circumstance as each musical number deserved a view, thankfully the more poignant moments in the show were reserved for the upper-level staging.

One of the beautiful aspects of this rendition of Tuck Everlasting was its youthfulness and appropriate casting. It was a meaningful production that captured the brevity of life and how to accept each season as it comes. Although this was a student led production – the singing and dancing which required proper technique in both forums was at the upmost level of excellence. This was fully demonstrated in the second act’s penultimate number choreographed by Leah Rooney “The Story of Winnie Foster” an interpretive ballet of Winnie Foster’s life. This scene along with the Company “The Wheel” Reprise brought many a tear to the eyes in the audience and left an indelible mark for the theatergoers as they left the performance venue contemplating on the value of time.

Rating: 3.5/5
- Megan Poff

A Review

Sat, 08 Jul 2023 20:42:27 GMT

A Review: The Wiz

The Fulton Theatre known for its traditional location in the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania made some wonderful attempts to diversify and present musicals in the 2022-2023 MainStage Series that brought much needed representation in staged productions . This line up included Kinky Boots, White Christmas, The Play that Goes Wrong, The Wiz, Titanic, and Grease . Each production regardless of its historic notions in casting made attempts to broaden its choices by diversifying the cast upon the stage – this was most notable in Fulton Theatre’s The Wiz which ran from March 2 – March 26.

The Wiz was historically produced by Ken Harper who had the idea to recreate an all-black version of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz during the Afrofuturism art movement in the 1970’s. It made its Broadway debut in 1975 and then became a movie musical released in 1978 which did not necessarily translate from stage to screen – as said the movie critics back then. However, leaning back into its success as a seven Tony Award winning staged musical, regional theatres felt that this was an opportune moment to showcase the rich history and diversity the show had to offer – and The Fulton Theatre did just that.

The production was directed by E. Faye Butler whose career spans over 40 years. She is somewhat iconic in the theatre world as an actor, singer, and more recently as a director. Her intention was to revisit this groundbreaking musical which paved the way for black artists to present their retelling of the classic musical, The Wizard of Oz . Its music genre is styled in gospel type song fare along with other elements of jazz, funk, and rhythm and blues. It is certainly a time capsule of the early 1970’s music genres as its music compositions were completed in 1974. Regardless, Butler found the nostalgia and brought it through from her actors on stage.

The main players in The Wiz such as, Dorothy (Jaden Dominque), Scarecrow (Lawrence Flowers), Tin Man (Darren Lorenzo), Lion (Lorenzo Rush Jr.), The Wiz (Kelvin Ruston Jr.), Glinda/Aunt ‘Em (DeQuina Moore) and Addaperle/Evillene (Paris Bennett), had wonderful chemistry throughout the show that fully engaged the audience. The ensemble mostly made up of professional local actors were also in wonderful form as they were choreographed by Kenny Ingram who was known for his creativity and sass during the Fulton’s earlier production of Kinky Boots .

The set design although creative in its for mat, left much to be desired. It did however give more stage presence to the main characters and cast – so this was probably left intentionally as director E. Faye Butler wanted to highlight the conflict and resolution for the characters. It was beneficial to see such movements on stage as it brought full arcs to the protagonist, Dorothy (Jaden Dominique) and antagonist, Addaperle/Evillene (Paris Bennett). One thing to note was the vocal prowess of Paris Bennet whose voice had vigor and strength as she belted out “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News” in the second act. Jaden Dominique who personified the main character Dorothy had a sweetness to her sound and was akin to her ingenue status. It also should be mentioned that actor, Darren Lorenzo who is known in the gospel world was an impressionable Tin Man as he riffed through the song, “Slide Some Oil to Me.” He was a standout performer.

Overall, the artists made their talents apparent whether it be within the main characters of the show, or the ensemble who were lovingly referred to as “Winkies”. It paid appropriate homage to the vision that the original composer (Charlie Smalls) intended. This was communicated effectively by Christie Chiles Twillie who music directed the show with the right elements when it came to pairing of voices .

The orchestra also knew how to keep the beat. It certainly left audience members tapping their toes afterwards. Therefore, while certain aesthetic moments were somewhat lacking in positioning and set design, it nonetheless was truly a fun show.

Rating 3.5/5
- Megan Poff

A Review

Sat, 08 Jul 2023 20:26:38 GMT

A Review: La Bohème

Opera Philadelphia created a progressive rendition of Giacomo Puccini’s most famous of operas, La Bohème . While one could argue that the progressive rendition of La Bohème is somewhat visible in Jonathan Larson’s musical, Rent – there is a desire for audiences to see the original opera in a contemporary format. This new interpretation of the opera was made available to audiences from April 28, 30 and May 5, and 7, respectively. To make clear, the Kimmel Center who is the home of Opera Philadelphia thrives on the concepts of interpretation and various forms of expression and this take on La Bohème was no exception.

Set originally in Paris of 1830 La Bohème is centered around the storyline of four bohemians (Rodolfo, Marcello, Schaunard, and Colline) living in an apartment who interact with their female counterparts (Mimì and Musetta). It is a classic story of love, heartbreak, and real-life circumstances. The reason why this opera is not only timeless, but also popular with mainstream audiences is because of Puccini’s use of luscious melodies and riveting storyline which was based upon Henry Murger’s Scènes de la vie de bohème . This collection of stories was formulated into a libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa in 1895 and has stood the test of time for a century and beyond.

To have Opera Philadelphia take such a notable (and now) mainstream opera and make it progressive took much courage. Not only was their main cast on stage diversely represented; they also made an attempt to artistically demonstrate La Bohème as a looking-back retell. The director, Yuval Sharon whose most recent work was at the Lyric Opera of Chicago and Detroit Opera, made use of the backwoods retelling of the opera. As opposed to starting with Act 1 going all the way through chronologically to Act 4, Sharon started the opera with Act 4. This required a narrator who was added to the cast labelled as “The Wanderer”played by Anthony Martinez-Briggs. Martinez-Briggs brought artistry and story retell which was needed for the scenes to transition backwards. His stance and vocal cadencing in rhythmic speech were reminiscent of a new form of musicality which was made evident in Lin- Manuel Miranda’s popular 2015 Hamilton . This addition to La Bohème made the transitions more palatable as most audiences were flabbergasted to start with the final act working backward.

To that end, the singers were more than capable of portraying this rendition. This is particularly taxing on the tenor, Joshua Blue (Rodolfo) who performs what is normally the leading duet as the final duet with Mimì “O Soave Fancillua” however, Blue holds his own. He is able to produce beautiful held tenor notes dripped with luscious timbre and emotion. His counterpart and love interest Mimì (Kara Goodrich) had beautiful lyricism and effective acting chops which was necessary to depict the dying beauty. The most notable character besides Rodolfo and Mimì was Musetta (Melissa Joseph). Her saucy stage presence along with her silvery soprano tone made a gorgeous and whimsical interpretation of Musetta’s (if not Puccini’s) most famous aria, “Quando me’n vo.” The staging of her taunting her lover Marcello (Troy Cook) appropriately had her positioned on top of dining tables in the Parisian café. To round out the main cast was baritone Benjamin Taylor who played Schaunard and bass singer Adam Lau who played the philosopher Colline. It is to be noted that Lau’s performance of “Vecchia zimarra” was so moving that it prompted an audible response of “bravo” from the audience.

There were moments where Corrado Rovaris the conductor for the opera made the tempos a bit fast. However, it is to be believed that he was thinking of the singers as performing the opera backwards requires such a huge demand on the voice. He had full understanding what his singers needed and conducted his orchestra accordingly.

La Bohème will always be a safe bet for opera houses to produce as it is a classic for patrons and newbies alike. The artistic interpretation of directing it backwards by Yuval Sharon was courageous but cannot say that this is the ideal method for performance. While there is room for directors in opera to push the envelope with interpretation... the retelling the story backwards seems... backwards. This is not to take away from the musicians, singers, and even staging which were fabulous throughout. However, it would be best for La Bohème to stay it chronological from beginning to end.

Rating: 4/5

- Megan Poff

A Review

meganebpoff@gmail.com (Megan EB Poff) — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 20:02:29 GMT

A Review: The Very Fractured Tale of Robin Hood

The Fulton Theatre in tandem with its MainStage shows produced a lovely children’s theatre rendition of the famous tale of Robin Hood which was loosely based on the 1883 novel by Howard Pyle. The show itself was original both in music and in dialogue and was written by local professional actor and director, Randall Frizado. As the patrons entered the theatre lobby, they were greeted by magicians, face painters, and an opportunity to pose in a fun Photo Booth with props to capture the experience. The children were delighted to have these experiences before attending the show.

The stage was cleverly constructed among the pre-existing Titanic set pieces as the actors moved about through the various levels of Sherwood Forest. The set was also level with the audience which made for appropriate banter for the young patrons and mature adults alike. It was an interactive production which made it very enjoyable for the attendees as the main characters in the show were both on and off the stage interacting with the crowd.

The cast consisted of energetic actors who truly enjoyed their roles on the stage. The cast consisted of the the traditional characters of Robin Hood such as Robin Hood (Matt Provencal), Little John (Joshua William Green), Maid Marian (Melissa Blaterwick), Friar Tuck (Zoe Fox), Sheriff of Nottingham (Jay Poff), Prince John (Brad Myer), King Richard (Trevail Maurice), and Wil Scarlett (StephJo Wise). The additional character of Troubadour (Lindsey Grimble Adams) was important in the narrative story telling. Lindsey specifically brought comical delight that was akin to slapstick humor appropriate for the young patrons in the house.

It was a delightful yet succinct show lasting only for an hour – enough time for children to actually pay attention. The plot was focused on freeing Robin Hood. The characters navigated the stage and audience with their iPhone devices to find their way through Sherwood Forrest to escape the conniving and evil Sheriff of Nottingham played by Jay Poff. With Poff’s Cheshire catlike features, he had a natural ability to maintain the villain status throughout the show. His equally diabolical helmer Prince John played by Brad Myer brought forth the spoiled attitude and snark required to fit the role. Duets abound with these two and the voices were in good synchronicity dripping with bad intentions.

Robin Hood played by Matt Provencal, had a lovely rich tenor sound which perfectly paired well with his supposed innocence and youthful frame. He was quite funny too. The conflict between him, Prince John, and the Sheriff of Nottingham brought forth an epic sword fight which involved light sabers much to the delight of Star Wars aficionados. In alliance with Robin Hood, there was Little John (Joshua William Green) whose sarcasm and mild frustration in certain conflicts were apparent through vibrant facial expressions. Green was ideal in this particular role as the humanistic subtleties of frustration were ever so telling. Not to leave out the comical Friar Tuck (Zoe Fox) and Wil Scarlett (StephJo Wise) both played by comical actresses whose references to epic girl power made many an audience member chuckle with delight.

There were moments where children in the audience had the opportunity to participate. Such as when Sheriff of Nottingham (Jay Poff) invited them to the archery competition from their seats to win the hand of Maid Marian (Melissa Blatherwick). There was also the ending where King Richard (Trevail Martin) made a comical conclusion as the rightful ruler of the kingdom and stated that the children were also his loyal subjects - this was of course after they gave away the location of evil Prince John (Brad Myer).

The production of The Very Fractured Tale of Robin Hood was adorable, fun, interactive, and quite entertaining. Frizado’s music was composed in simple and singable melodies which children were able to hum away with in the lobby. It was apparent the actors were having a great time on stage and the audience enjoyed watching them. Performances were held from April 29-May 20th and made for an ideal getaway for local primary schools as a field trip option. If there any criticism for this show, it is that there were not enough of them.

Rating 4.5/5
- Megan Poff

New Efforts

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 20:26:21 GMT

In defense of music criticism and performance reviews

The famed composer Leonard Bernstein once stated, "I've been all over the world and I've never seen a statue of a critic." While this sentiment is usually a quotable source of affirmation for those in the performing arts, it also suggests that music critics are not worth remembering.

To this I would push back, if only a little. As one who does perform, teaches it, and is married to an active performer (you may check him out at JayPoff.com) - I understand the sentiment of Bernstein. It is hard to read a review of one's performance and question all of the artistry involved. However, what is interesting is that most artists that I know who are prominent in the industry also use these same pontifications when the review is good. By default, the artist is giving the music critic/performance review validity by plastering what they had to say on their respected websites.

As a performer, I am a huge advocate for music critics and music criticism in general. In fact, so much so that I have put forth two dedicated years of studying graduate level writing so I could attempt to understand this particular world of journalistic opinion.

In discussing with my graduate advisor (a genius writer and professor) about the negative overview of critics in the performing arts, I was made aware that every area in our daily lives has room for criticism. I thought about this at length and it was very clear to me that there are endless opportunities for criticism, review, and opinions.

Some examples... Do we have book reviews? Do we have ratings of stars for restaurants? Do we have sportscasters reviewing the plays of athletes and commenting thusly? Do we have work performance evaluations in the 9-5 office job? Do we opine about political differences both on and off the television screen? I would assume yes to all of these. Why would music and live performances be any different? Is it because they are so personal and sensitive in nature?

In our humanistic sensibilities we have a tendency to be overly protective of our art. In essence, that is a good thing. However, one can become blighted to one's capabilities or settle into indifference. No one is exempt of loving their career only for it to become a duty bound effort - artists included. Critics can give an outside perspective and performance standards which will enable the artist stay motivated to their craft, that is if they can handle the critique. Criticism is actually a beneficial contribution to the performing arts and the artists within them.

As much as I adore Leonard Bernstein, I don't think his quote holds much merit when it comes to this particular topic. While critics in the performing world are not monumentalized by statues or plaques, their words carry weight in the performing arts and that's monumental in itself.

Nostalgia

meganebpoff@gmail.com (Megan Poff) — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 16:53:14 GMT

Grief and Joy in the Holiday Season

Nostalgia. It’s a word that most sums up a complicated emotion when it comes to grief. In the Webster dictionary nostalgia means: "a wistful or excessively sentimental yearning for return to or of some past period or irrecoverable condition”. The etymology of the word nostalgia comes from combination of the Greek words: “nostos” which means return home and “algos” which means pain.

So nostalgia truly means painful homecoming. It’s apparent to me how this emotion is a tough one. Home is a place of security, familiarity and peace. Pain is an emotion of hurt, discomfort and sorrow. When you combine these two emotions together it is the recognition that you cannot go back to once was, and the holidays are a nostalgic reminder that you cannot have what “once was” when love ones have passed.

In 2015, my Father was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and my Mom was diagnosed with uterine cancer that same year. As a believer in Christ, it was honestly the most confusing season in my life. Within three years, both of my parents slipped into eternity 18 months apart from one another. Illness had taken their physical well-being. If I’m being honest, it was incredibly hard to reconcile the glorious power of God and His miracles while having death literally surround me.

I was angry. I was hurt. I was heartbroken. I thought... “God, why do you hate me so much to take BOTH of my parents? Why aren’t you the healer that you say you are in your Word? Why me?” I embraced victim-hood so quickly at that time.

But The Most High is long suffering and revealed to me His truth. He brought to me passages in His Word that reminded me I’m not alone in my pain... that Jesus was literally a man of sorrows as mentioned in Isaiah 53:3. That in Him I can find peace and comfort.

So while the holidays approach and the existential dread of being reminded of what I no longer have... my Mom unloading presents from her car or my Dad singing a Christmas Carol somewhat off key, I AM reminded of the greatest gift to mankind Jesus who the Prophet Isaiah spoke of in Isaiah 9:6 “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given unto us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace”

That last name I hold on tightly to... The Prince of Peace. He gives the most ultimate freedom from disturbance, pain and even nostalgia - this is why I keep going in the faith. That is why even though the holidays are hard, I understand that the Savior of the world bore our sorrow, bore our grief and understands us at the deepest level possible.

It is truly the greatest gift imaginable. This is why I can celebrate simultaneously the joy and nostalgia of Christmastime. While, yes... I miss my parents, memories had and sorrow for memories we will not have. I am reminded that this life is a temporary one. Jesus isn’t limited to a holiday, and He gives me as mentioned in Isaiah 61:3 “a crown of beauty for ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning.”

Joy to the world, indeed! For Jesus is the greatest gift of all. Remember that as you sing your Christmas carols this year and unwrap your presents from loved ones. It is always and should always be only about Him.

This Thing Called Life

meganebpoff@gmail.com (Megan Poff) — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 23:10:12 GMT

It is a journey, I can say that much

Will post more later... when I find the time!

So much to share, but I'll be posting soon. Promise. XO ~ Meg~

CROWNED

meganebpoff@gmail.com (Megan EB Poff) — Sat, 21 Mar 2020 23:57:23 GMT

I shall wear a crown... when it is all over...

3.... 2.... 1...

The day is March 21 and I was in prayer and the Lord told me "count down..." and I checked the date and it was 3/21. This is not a doomsday post (although it does seem like a dystopian movie outside right now) but one of promise... and I MUST OBEY MY HEAVENLY FATHER.

So we're going to talk.

I have never been one to be terribly demonstrative in my faith. I always liked to go the quiet route, the safe space, not trouble the water so to say... And truthfully, when I have spoken out about my faith in Jesus Christ, I begin to worry about what others think, or will I be accepted? Rejection hurts and despite what the perception is, Christians are fully human too.

This is not a post about how close to God I am, or that I'm special, or that I'm worthy. I am none of those things... it is CHRIST IN ME that makes me remotely acceptable and worthy in God's sight. So I'm going to lay some truths down that was revealed to me, in the secret, quiet place and just share.

So with that being said, I was in prayer... with all of this isolation and what the outside world is going through, God reminded me of my gifting. He equipped me with discernment. To be totally transparent, I always joke with God and say "Why you gotta make me so deep?" So with that, I have struggled... and prayed... and wrestled with God... because I was like, this is not going to make sense to MOST people... but I must share what God revealed to me... because obedience is better than sacrifice. 1 Samuel 15:22

So let's talk deep....

In my work, I am a researcher - a musicologist if you will. I study words, and how they are used in music, text painting, interpretation - etymology - and their historical significance.

The Lord asked me, "Why don't you use the same research to my Word and the world?"

So I did... and man are my eyes opened! 20/20 vision indeed!

I looked up they etymology of Co-vi-d 19.

Co - is short for "corona" which means crown: an item placed on the head of someone (OR) rest on top of

Vi - is short for "viral" which means - related to virus (OR) circulated around rapidly

D - is short for "disease" which means - disorder of structure (OR) a particular quality, habit, or disposition as adversary.

Covid literally means: "Crowned in viral disease"

#19 - means "surrender" or "new beginnings" - March 19th was the first day of spring after all.

I was stunned at what the Lord revealed to me. He was showing me that the world, this evil planet that has been corrupted by sin itself and is literally crowned in viral disease.

The devil is a liar and a counterfeit. Just like the Word of the Lord says in John 8:44.

So of course he's going to try to mimic God because he is not capable of original thought!

*BUT I SHARE GOOD NEWS!!!!* THERE IS HOPE!!!!* HIS NAME IS JESUS!!!!*

THE LORD IS REMINDING HIS BRIDE, HIS CHURCH, WE HAVE THE CROWN OF LIFE IN

JESUS CHRIST! We must abide in Him. We must pray. We must be obedient. We must share the good news that is the gospel of Jesus Christ. He alone is total freedom.

John 16: 33 "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

It will be hard. God did not promise us a life of easy things in His Word, He promised us that we would be overcomers if we REMAIN IN HIM.

James 1:12

"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."

In Psalm 19 it states:

"The law of the Lord is perfect reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned, in keeping them there is great reward."

In Matthew 22:35-40 it states:

"One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’[a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[b] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

The Lord is telling you, to LOVE HIM with all your heart, soul, and mind. The Lord is also telling you to love your neighbor as yourself. We must be the light of Jesus Christ in these dark times. Is your lantern filled with oil? Are you willing to trust what God has called you to do, and reach out to the hurting and the lost.

JESUS... HAD.... COMPASSION....

Matthew 9:37

"When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37Then He said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. 38Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest."

Now more than ever we must share our testimony. We must share the gospel. We must be transparent with our walk in Christ. Do you know your field? Are you praying for your loved ones? Every person matters. Every person Jesus defeated death for... give them the hope of eternal life. Do not be fearful of this world, perfect love casts out all fear.

1 John 4:18

"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."

Remember.... YOU SHALL WEAR A CROWN.... when it is all over...

2 Timothy 4:8

"Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

The only righteousness we have is in Jesus Christ. May I always have the grace of God to continue seeking after my Savior.

All my love,

Meg

Staying Healthy

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 03:57:58 GMT

Some suggestions on health & wellness.

Hello Music Fans!

It has been a long time since I wrote on my blog. It's shameful, I know. I was somewhat distracted with other events happening this past year that did not allow me the freedom to write as often as I wanted. I'm back now, and with a promise to be faithful to my weekly outro.

With everything going on in the world regarding health and wellness - I thought I would give a quick tip to help with homeopathic remedies as we know that hand washing, avoiding germs by keeping your hands away from your face are the common sense ways to stave off colds and flu.

I had a foreign exchange student in my early years of teaching. One day in the studio, I was feeling poorly. Tickle in my throat... sniffles... bad headache.... She suggested that I go home and boil a pot of water. Once the water was hot enough for my feet to feel the heat (but NOT burn), you soak them. Put your feet in the hot water (NOT BOILING WATER... there is a difference!) and let them soak for a minimum of twenty minutes. Afterward, while your feet are still wet, take the fuzziest socks you own and put them on. DO NOT DRY YOUR FEET BEFORE PUTTING THE SOCKS ON. It will defeat the purpose. Go straight to bed.

I did this and miraculously I woke up with no symptoms. I felt 100% better and thanked her upon our next lesson. Amazingly, your feet have nerve endings which are connected to the ear, nose and throat. If we give our feet a chance to relax in hot water, this also allows freedom for your body to respond appropriately. Do this when symptoms first arrive, otherwise it might be a wasted effort.

And always... drink lots of water! Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

- Meg

Good Friday!

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 12:42:18 GMT

Passover Lamb

Hello Music Fans!

Hug a church musician this week. They need love! Haha. This is a day many Christians observe as "Good Friday" and we will soon have "Resurrection Sunday" - or what mainstream call Easter (more on the origins of that later...) to celebrate the sacrifice, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

This isn't necessarily a musical blog today - didn't feel led to write one. I have sensed an urgency in my spirit that I wanted to acknowledge God's sacrifice of His son shedding His blood for us. I feel at times, modern day or mainstream Christianity has conflated the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus with prosperity gospel. Sure, God wants us to prosper. He has so many blessings for his children - but it's not this heretical name it and claim it, blab it and grab it doctrine that I hear so many television spiritual stars preach. In honesty, it's quite the opposite.

In the book of 1 Samuel 15: there is a quote that stood out to me... "Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice" - The Lord certainly blesses people and it is when they OBEY Him. As I was reading the gospels and meditated on the story of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus went to pray to His Father in Heaven. He asked, "Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." This is mentioned in Luke 22 and Mark 14. If you read carefully, He sought the Lord three times - He asked God to remove this suffering. God did not remove that cup. He allowed His son to be innocently executed on behalf of a nation who needed Him. Jesus is our passover lamb as prophesied in Isaiah 53:7.

I say all this because as Sunday approaches, we will celebrate Jesus as a risen Savior. I personally do not designate my Savior's resurrection for one week in the year, but nonetheless it says a lot about God's plan and purpose for our lives! Jesus is the King. He sits on the right hand side of the Father Acts 7:55-56. He DESERVED that spot because He obeyed the Father. His obedience became the sacrifice for you and me.

God wants to reward His children. He wants to bless us, yes... but don't get it twisted. There is a reason why this pilgrim's path is somewhat a difficult terrain. It requires believers to live like Christ, to love like Christ. It requires us to completely obey God and lay it all down for His glory. James 1:17 states: "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." JESUS IS THAT PERFECT GIFT. It would be in the best interest of believers to start living like Him, sacrificing our carnal desires for the spiritual ones - I think when that happens, maybe... just maybe... others can see the abundant love we have, because we knew the cost of God's love.

Be Blessed Everyone!

I'm Baaaack!

Sat, 16 Mar 2019 14:55:57 GMT

After a much needed coffee break...

Hello Music Fans!

I am sorry that it has taken SO LONG to get back into my art of writing. My last blog that I put up literally happened the week before my Dad passed away. In truth, I didn't have much I wanted to say or share... or anything. Grief is a funny thing. It hits you unexpectedly and sometimes soaks up all of your creative energy.

If I am going to be truly honest, I have functioned mostly on Jesus and coffee to get me through this new normal these past few months. Jesus - because He is the captain of my salvation, my hope, my joy - the solid rock of my foundation. Coffee - because let's face it, its warm rich goodness gets me through the day.

In truth, I think that is maybe why I have such an affinity for Bach - not only was he a genius with composition, he loved God and loved coffee! And was quoted as saying, "Without my morning coffee I'm just like a dried up piece of roast goat." - I COMPLETELY AGREE!

So, although this is a short blog today- I will be doing my able best to blog weekly and give some insight to my life... if you're interested. And I will be writing with a cup of coffee in my hand and thanking Jesus that I am able to do so.

Ephesians 3:20
Until Next Time!

- Meg

Working Mom

meganebpoff@gmail.com (Megan EB Poff) — Wed, 05 Sep 2018 13:54:05 GMT

You can have it all, kind of...

Hello Music Fans!

I have been scrambling as the school week has officially started and I have (it seems) thousands of emails to respond to. However, if I'm going to have a weekly blog, I should at LEAST try to write something. I was inspired by "Facebook Memories" and man was that a rude awakening!

Time Flies.

They tell you that. I've been told that my whole life (by my elders mostly) but they seem to be onto something. Literally in a couple of hours I'll be taking my oldest son to his preschool orientation. PREK!?! When the heck did that happen?

In my Facebook memories - literally FIVE years ago today I was starting back at classes for collegiate teaching full on pregnant with the little tyke. I was glowing. I was also thinking "Man, how can I do this?" Have a baby and still keep my music career in tact.

I'm proof positive that it can happen...

But it requires a lot of compromise on your part. In these next few weeks I'm going to walk you through the process of my own difficult but certainly enjoyable pregnancies.

Do women sing better when pregnant? (Not always)
What happens after a cesarean? (Ouch)
What happens after two cesareans? (Double Ouch)
Will my voice change after babies? (Yes, but that's usually during the toddler phase when you're screaming "NO!")
How do I schedule their life and my life? (a lot of planning, and it helps to have a good calendar! MOM BRAIN IS REAL).

So these next few weeks I'll be talking about the phases I personally went through... to help women who sing and don't sing... on how to manage pregnancy/newborns/toddlers/children while working to live your best life.

So until next week's outro....

- Meg

My Teaching Philosophy

meganebpoff@gmail.com (Megan EB Poff) — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 13:14:01 GMT

Be the best version of you!

Hello Music Fans!

Sorry it took me so long to write again since my last blog. I have obviously failed on my goals of doing a "weekly" thing! Time got away from me and I had a lot of good reasons as to why.

But I digress... I wanted to talk about singing and being your authentic self. IT IS HARD! It is hard for a plethora of reasons. However, I feel that mostly it boils down to this: artists are sensitive and sensitive people usually want approval (can we say people pleasers?). We need approval right? We need approval to have an audience, to collaborate with fellow artists, to be chosen by directors or producers... it's sort of required that we are approved in the industry.

Well, sort of...

See here is the deal. As a singer, YOU are the instrument. So it's hard not to take it personally when someone doesn't like your voice, or you get a bad review from a music critic. You feel that you own all of the mistakes, all the technique mishaps, and maybe just maybe you're not cut out for this gig after all.

That's where tenacity comes in - and accepting where you are and WHO you are. I have this core believe that we are all created by God with individual gifts, talents and callings. It is really easy to forget that when things aren't moving at a face pace - or rejection seems like an inevitable outcome.

There is a two fold problem that I think is connected with all of this.
1. You put your worth into what your voice can do.
2. You compare yourself with other singers.

1. "You put your worth in what your voice can do."
Confession: When I was in graduate school, I kept referring to "my voice is this... my voice does that... my voice bothers me today..." and my voice teacher just looked at me with a loving frustration but basically said, "Megan, you do realize that your voice is you, right?" Well.... okay! I was looking at my voice as some demonic entity that had its own super powers that I had no control over. THAT WAS A GAME CHANGER. Sure, since then there are moments when I feel like I'm not totally connected with the tissues in my throat that happen to vibrate... but seriously - at the end of the day, it IS me. I need to LOVE myself to love my voice. I don't have the biggest voice in the room. I have a fast vibrato. Certain notes don't sound as good in my range as others. There are certain arias I will NEVER sing. And I will ALWAYS consider myself a work in progress. But I refuse to put my own personal worth in what my voice can do. I was created for greater things than that, and honestly I'm not up for that kind of neuroticism. It's just way too much pressure. Like, seriously.

So please, accept yourself, your body, and own your voice because it is you after all.

2. "You compare yourself with other singers."
STOP. STOP. STOP! Are you for real? We just got done talking about putting your worth in what your voice can do and instead accepting yourself in the body (instrument) God gave you. With all this being said, WHY WASTE YOUR TIME COMPARING WITH OTHERS. Let me shout it for those in the back:

WHY WASTE YOUR TIME COMPARING WITH OTHERS?!?!

As singers we have this AMAZING gift. What is it? We possess this amazing capacity to sound like nobody else. An oboe will always sound like an oboe. A violin will always sound like a violin. A trumpet will always sound like a trumpet. Get my point? Sure, different musicians can create new sounds on these instruments and make them "sing" by the way they play them, but the instrument's timbre will always stay the same.

As for me, I will sound like Megan Poff. I will not sound like Jay Poff (my husband... hi honey). Or Maria Callas, or Barbara Streisand, or God forbid, Shakira (although I do a really spot on imitation of her!). True story... I won't sound like anyone else but myself. Why? Because MY BODY is my instrument. My throat is MY THROAT which is apart of MY BODY. So it is a colossal waste of time for me to compare myself with other singers. It's okay to be inspired by them, motivated by them, learn from them... but don't compare yourself to them. It will honestly get you nowhere. Teddy Roosevelt said, "Comparison is the thief of joy." So quit stealing your own joy!

Which leads me to my last point....

I get so excited when a new student comes to my studio. I enjoy the challenge of figuring out what kind of instrument they are, what motivates them, what challenges them, what music inspires them. And after which seems like the inquisition of twenty questions and beyond... I just say this:

"You have come here to be the best version of yourself."

- Meg

Welcome

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:31:44 GMT

To the beginning of something new

Hello Music Fans,

I decided to write a blog and call it "This Week's Outro" - in the music world outro means the concluding section of a piece of music (opposite of intro) and is used mostly in radio and television. While I may not be on television or radio (just yet) I am here on the world wide web! Over the past year or so, I have had people tell me that I needed to start a blog because I know so many artists and industry professionals who need encouragement in these crazy times. I guess this is confirmation that I hear you and I will be your voice - meaning that I am happy to give insight to things that are happening in our industry whether it be performance related, educational, self-help... anything!

I am also open to suggestion on topics that you might ask me to explore as well. Personally, I have gone through a lot in the past few years which has required me to reevaluate my decisions, my priorities and what drives the desires of my heart. Therefore, I plan on being vulnerable (within reason) to help those with the emotional struggles that being a singer/teacher/performer/artist requires.

We are here to help each other - pretending that everything is amazing while we are on our path to success is disingenuous and I'm just not good at faking. So with that being said, I look forward to telling you how things are as they are! Until the next outro...

- Meg