October is here, and with it comes a bold burst of orange—the Studio’s inspiration colour of the month. Orange is the colour of optimism, independence, adventure, creativity, and fun—all the things we’re feeling as we move into this exciting new season of choir and private lessons.
September gave us our momentum: we kicked off private lessons, began choir rehearsals, and planted the seeds of connection, courage, and creative energy. Now, in October, we’re not just starting—we’re in the flow. Routines are settling in, confidence is growing, and our artists are feeling more comfortable in their learning environments. We’re moving forward with intention.
One of the big highlights of the month so far? Our annual RISE Fall Retreat this past weekend!
It was an incredible time of connection, laughter, and deep musical focus. We played games, built trust, learned new skills, and made memories that will carry us through the season. There’s a real sense of optimism in the air—this year is going to be an exciting and creative adventure, and we’re ready for it!
🏮 The Lantern You Carry
Think of your artistic journey like a path winding through a beautiful, unknown landscape. Some days the way is clear, and you can see the view for miles. Other days, the path narrows, gets bumpy, or is surrounded by fog.
What guides you forward on this path is your lantern—and that lantern is lit by your intention.
Your intention is the light that reminds you why you started. It doesn’t need to be big or flashy. A simple spark is enough. But it must be yours. No one else can carry it for you.
As you grow as an artist, your lantern grows too. It might change colour. It might burn brighter or softer at different times. But as long as you keep it lit—keep coming back to your why—you’ll never be lost.
🎯 Focus Word of the Week: Independent
Each week, we anchor our studio culture in a powerful focus word. This week, it’s independent.
Being independent as an artist means so much more than just “doing it on your own.” Here’s what we’re exploring this week:
✨ Independent Learner – You’re starting to take more ownership of your artistic journey. With routines in place and regular practice times set, you’re learning how to stay committed—even when no one is watching.
🎵 Independent Practice – This is where true growth begins. You’re no longer just following instructions; you’re making artistic choices, listening deeply, and challenging yourself creatively.
🧠Independent Thinking – You are free to express your unique voice. Whether you’re singing, composing, interpreting music, or exploring new ideas, your artistry is yours to shape.
🎨 Independence in Artistry – There’s something truly special about trusting yourself in your creative process. It’s bold, it’s brave, and it’s beautiful.
✨ Your Intention = Your North Star
This week, every artist in our studio is being invited to set a personal artistic intention—a guiding light for your practice and performance. Intentions are like a North Star: they help you stay focused on your why, even when the path gets tricky.
So here’s your challenge:
👉 Pick up a journal and dedicate it to your artistic practice.
👉 On the very first page, write down your intention for the season ahead.
Ask yourself:
🔹 What are my hopes and dreams as an artist?
🔹 What do I want to explore, express, or create?
🔹 Where do I see my artistry going in the long term?
You don’t have to share it unless you want to. What matters most is that you take a moment to pause, reflect, and name your intention. It will be the spark that keeps you going—especially on the days when you’re tired or practice feels hard or progress feels slow.
And remember: your intention can evolve as you do. Start with where you are right now. That’s more than enough.
Here’s to an October filled with orange energy—full of optimism, independence, adventure, creativity, and FUN. We’re so proud of how far our artists have already come this season, and we can’t wait to see where your intentions take you next.
Let your intention be your light this week. Let it guide your practice, your creativity, and your connection to your artistry.
Keep singing,
Andrea “the eternal optimist” Donais