We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexandra Langley and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Alexandra, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Throughout my professional life, my work-life balance has improved immensely through the use of my planner. I need to have my obligations written down so I can physically see them in front of me. If I don’t see it, I will likely forget it. It helps me remember what gig, rehearsal, lesson, or recording session I have in the day and time. Then I can plan my free time for life more efficiently for certain times and days. Another big key I use to balance my work-life obligations is having a set time to stop working. That way, it gives me plenty of time to relax after working and taking care of my health. When I’m healthy, I can be more productive.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have been playing the flute since 2008 at 10 years old, but I have always appreciated music my whole life. It has always impressed me that music can create emotion and illustrate characters/settings in many ways. In my professional life, I am fully trained in the classical realm so that is the majority of my work. However, I introduced my love for soundtracks and rock into the mix by making flute arrangements of Evanescence, The Cure, Hamilton, and more. Songs that genuinely love listening to. Because I hold an appreciation for classical and rock, it flowed naturally out of my heart. The challenge is fine-tuning the performance to make it effortless. My biggest lesson throughout my story is learning to trust your heart as an artist and a performer. Yes, pieces are played many times over, but what can you bring to the table with that piece? The audience wants to learn about you. When you are showing your heart fully as an artist, the audience can connect with you and get inspired. My big key for the world to know is no matter what you play from classical to covers, be creative, be musical, and be you.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The city of Dallas has lovely sights to see and visit. I would go to the Meyerson Symphony Center to watch the Dallas Symphony perform one of their seasonal concerts. I would go to the American Airlines Center to watch the Dallas Stars hockey team compete in a game. I would eat at Eataly for authentic Italian cuisine and shop for fresh ingredients for cooking. After the meal, I would walk straight into the mall connected to the restaurant to shop for cosmetics, clothing, and other treats. These are to name a few of my favorite Dallas spots.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate this shoutout to my lovely professor, my sweet boyfriend, my supportive family, and everyone who has been a part of my musical journey and helped me grow to where I am today.
Website: https://www.alexandralangleyflutist.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alangleyflute/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alangleyflute123/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCefzvbqxoMYEOlSIG3OaBmQ
Other: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alangleyflute
Image Credits
Texas Christian University School of Music, Eagle Mountain International Church Victory Channel, Alexandra Langley-@alangleyflute