Barbara Van Patten is a modern-day Renaissance woman. In addition to her passion for music and the cello, her enthusiasm for the outdoors and her work at her own business, she is also an author. Her first published book, "Whoo Saves the Symphony?" was released this summer by Tate Publishing & Enterprises. Termed "A Shenandoah Music Festival Adventure," the paperback children’s book takes readers on a journey of musical sound effects and rhythmic verse, as it introduces different aspects of the symphony orchestra. Van Patten lives in Burke with her husband, Allyn, and their golden retriever. She took time from her busy schedule to sit down and answer some questions about herself and her work.
What inspired you to write this book? I write a lot of stories, and I tell a lot of stories. I’m not sure that all of them are true, but this one is based on a true story at least. It is a fictionalized account of the time the Fairfax Symphony spends at the Shenandoah Music Festival in Orkney Springs, Va. Whenever the symphony performs there, I always joke about what would happen if we didn’t show up to perform, so I decided to write about it. Also, I have created children’s programs and performances for parks and symphonies for over 20 years, so I spent a lot of time writing scripts. I thought it was time to create a book.
Who is your intended audience? My book is intended for everyone, although some people don’t read children’s books. Really though, it isn’t just for children. It is meant to be read aloud by people of all ages.
Besides writing, what other work have you done? After I graduated from the University of Washington with degrees in music and nursing, I worked as an RN at a hospital, and I freelanced for a while. Now I play the cello in the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra and the Baltimore Opera Orchestra. I also run a small legal and identity theft protection business with my husband, and I teach cello lessons privately. I love teaching because all of my students teach me an incredible amount. I don’t think you are a teacher if you aren’t learning from your students.
Other activities and interests? I like to surround myself with positive activities and people, so I love to do all kinds of things. I really enjoy sailing and being on the water, and even playing golf on occasion. I am always open to learning new things, meeting new people and finding things to laugh about.
What are your community concerns? I am worried that the education system imposes too many pressures on children today. Schooling has become too competitive. It would be great if children could be allowed to appreciate education for the sake of learning, rather than having to worry about grades all the time. It is still necessary to work hard, of course, but the work should be focused on something worthwhile.
What books would you recommend to others? "The 4-Hour Workweek," by Timothy Ferriss, was a great read. It is about a man who became the national kickboxing champion in just six weeks. The book teaches that you can do anything if you really focus on and direct your attention to what you want. Another of my favorites is "Chicken Soup for the Entrepreneur’s Soul" by John Gardner.
What community "hidden treasure" should more people know about? Their imaginations. Everyone needs to learn to use theirs. That way, we can live our dreams and not our past experiences.
What are your personal goals? I would definitely love to write more books. Other than that, I want to help children enjoy music and use their imaginations. Also, I would like to help others fulfill their dreams. Throughout all of my jobs, helping others has always been my primary focus.
— Emily Miller