I have been invited by my Alma mater to introduce myself in the appointment procedure for a music theory professorship. This is, after my widely noticed withdrawal of last summer, something of a surprise. But needless to say, I will accept the challenge and prepare a cunning little demonstration lesson that will blow their minds. Let’s see how it goes. NB: I’m not revealing sensitive data here, as the names of all applicants to this position were publicly announced on the department’s notice board. Good luck to every of my competitors—may they succeed according to their personal ambitions and standards, regardless of their gender, race, class, or origin.

One shouldn’t consider it possible that somebody holds two professoral positions at the same time, particularly in a business as tough and competitive as classical music—but yes, two members of the teaching staff at Berlin University of the Arts’ Faculty of Music simultaneously occupy another post in Switzerland. Violinist Nora Chastain is also professor at Zurich University of the Arts, while clarinetist François Benda also teaches at Basel Academy of Music. Apart from challenging the necessity of a second salary at this level, one might question these persons’ ability to manage the teaching load associated with taking care of two instrumental major classes. Maybe they are lucky enough to be gifted with bilocation?