I was 18 the first time I walked into a room full of amazing female musicians who came together with the purpose of furthering music around the world. I was nervous, unsure of my place, and still figuring out who I was as a musician and a young woman.

That’s where I met Kay.

She had the most contagious laugh and a smile that would welcome anyone… she filled the room with presence, warmth, and wisdom. I had no idea how deeply she’d shape my path when I first met her. It wasn’t an immediate connection, but as time and life continued, we fell into a very special friendship. After having my kids, I spent time away from performing, and of course, I got a little rusty:) She offered to coach me when I was hired to sing as the soprano soloist for a local presentation of Handel’s Messiah.

As a mom of young kids, they came with me everywhere. She was gracious and told me to bring them along. She said, “Don will play with your boys while we work.” Don was a wonderful, supportive husband and had a great time playing with the boys, teaching them old-fashioned games, and letting them splash their little toes in his beloved jacuzzi. And just like that, we were friends for life.

The Call to Adventure

Earlier this year, I got a message that Kay’s health was declining. It was such a shock to me because I had dinner with her just a couple of months earlier, and she was in great health. I quickly made the trip to see her, and she was not the same Kay I had dinner with just a month or two earlier. She had moments of lucidness and moments where she didn’t know where she was. She always walked me to the door when I visited her home, and she tried to do so on this day. But I insisted that I could see myself out. Then came the call a few days later: she had passed, and I was asked to help fulfill her final wishes.

For years, Kay would tell me what she wanted me to sing, and then she would change her mind, LOL! There were so many great choices, but she chose: Pie Jesu for me and O Divine Redeemer for Gail. She knew exactly what she wanted, and it was the perfect choice.

I didn’t know how I would hold it together. But I knew I had to try.

The Journey

The morning of her memorial, the sanctuary was still. Sunlight filtered through the beautiful large windows like it knew something sacred was about to happen.

I stood up to sing. My hands trembled just a little, but I took a few low breaths and took my time before the first note left my body. It really felt like an out-of-body experience, and I knew she was there, smiling with her bright eyes.

Then Gail sang so expressively that tears started to form in my eyes. I knew I had to hold it together because I still had to help with the Sigma Alpha Iota Memorial ceremony. The sisters of Sigma Alpha Iota gathered around to symbolically return Kay’s rose to the silver plate. A final gift. A tradition she cherished. And a moment that I have always cherished as a sister.

I held myself together until the end… But when we sang the SAI Chorale, something inside me broke open. The tears came, and I didn’t fight them. I took a few deep breaths to allow myself to at least squeak out some sort of music from my body. Was it the most intune I have sung? No, but music isn’t about being perfect; it’s about connecting with others and yourself in a sacred moment in time, and we all felt that on that day.

Music tells our life stories. And Kay will forever be a part of mine.

Deanna’s Notes

• Music is more than notes – It’s connection. It’s meaning. It’s our memories.

• Grief isn’t weakness – It’s love with nowhere to go but out.

• Legacy isn’t always loud – Sometimes it’s a whisper that lasts longer than a roar.

• Honor people while they’re here – But also, sing them home when the time comes.

Kay’s Obituary

Kathryn “Kay” E. Schmaus, of Winter Park, FL.,  passed away November 14, 2024. She was born in 1938 in Lebanon, Indiana. To Horace and Ivy (Sloan) Peabody. In 1956, she graduated from Lebanon High School. She attended college at Ball State University where she was a member of Sigma Kappa Sorority and Sigma Alpha Iota International music fraternity for women. She was also in the concert choir and the Ball State Symphony. In her junior year at BSU, she was one of the top ten women in the Miss BSU contest. In her senior year, she received the Performer’s Certificate for her vocal performance with the BSU Orchestra, and she was also soloist with the Muncie Symphony. She graduated in 1961 with a B.S. in Music Education.

She did further vocal studies at the Eastman School of Music of the University of Rochester, and in 1966 won 1st place in the District Metropolitan Opera Auditions.

Kay married Don Schmaus in 1961 and they moved to Syracuse, NY. In Syracuse, she taught voice at Onondaga Community College and was a member of the Corinthian Club. Then in 1973 she and her husband moved to Winter Park, Florida.

She was heard in operas, oratorios, and vocal chamber music concerts, with symphony musicians as well as in the premiers of modern music of area composers in Syracuse and Central Florida. Kay and Don moved to Central Florida in 1973, where she continued to sing extensively.

Kay was also a member of PEO, Chapter EJ-EW of Winter Park, FL.

Pre-deceased by her husband, Don, she is survived by her beloved son and family, Steve Schmaus, wife Ginger of Deltona FL. Also leaves behinds grandchildren, Rachel, Luke, and Caleb of Central Florida. She is also survived by her beloved son, Paul, and partner Nicole, of Aubrey, TX.

She also leaves behind her sister, Jane Peabody of Pewaukee, Wisconsin. Along with many nephews and nieces.

The service celebrating Kay’s life was held Saturday June 28, 2025 at 11:00am at the First Congregational Church of Winter Park, 225 S. Interlachen Ave., Winter Park, FL. 32789.

Memorials may be sent to the First Congregational Church, to PEO scholarship fund, or to your favorite no-kill animal rescue shelter.

The Return with Insight

Singing for Kay wasn’t just about honoring her life. It reminded me that music is sacred, holds the things we can’t say, and gives shape to goodbye.

She shaped the kind of musician I’ve become. Not just with technique, but with tenderness and boldness.

She taught me to listen to my inner voice, show up fully, and enjoy the music.

Closing Reflection

When I think of Kay now, I hear her beautiful voice, I remember the handwritten cards she would send me in the mail just because. But most of all I remember her wonderful laugh, her soft smile, and encouraging eyes.

She’s part of my story, and always will be.

Who’s the person that helped shape your voice or path?
Maybe it’s time to reach out.

Related Links

• Learn more about Sigma Alpha Iota and their legacy of sisterhood: SAI International Music Fraternity
• Florida PEO

💌 If stories like this speak to your heart, I invite you to subscribe to Notes from the Stage. I share music, memories, and little moments that connect us all.

Stressful to Successful: One Simple Word To Transform Your Year!

Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and stressed as you navigate through the challenges of daily life and struggle to keep up with your New Year’s resolutions? It’s the end of January, are you still fulfilling your resolution? If you are not, just know that it’s not your fault. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 77% of people regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress, and 48% feel that their stress has increased over the past five years. But what if I told you that there is one simple word that can transform your year from stressful to successful? That’s right, just one word. In this article, we’ll explore the power of this one word, and how it can shift your mindset and help you achieve your goals. No gimmicks or quick fixes, just a powerful tool to help you thrive in today’s chaotic world. From boosting productivity to overcoming obstacles, embracing positivity can truly change the game. So get ready to shift your mindset, increase your productivity, and tackle challenges head-on by harnessing the power of positivity.

Understanding the Impact of Positivity

Incorporating positivity into your daily routine is more than just a feel-good exercise; it can have a profound impact on every aspect of your life. From improving your mental well-being to enhancing your relationships and overall outlook on life, the power of positivity is simple and many times overlooked. Let’s dive into how embracing positivity can bring about positive changes in your life.

Incorporating Positivity into Your Daily Routine

Incorporating positivity into your daily routine is essential for creating a more fulfilling and joyful life. One way to start is by incorporating positive affirmations into your morning routine. These affirmations can help set the tone for your day and remind you of the good things in your life. Another way to infuse positivity into your daily routine is by practicing gratitude. Taking time each day to reflect on what you are thankful for can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. One hundred and sixty days ago, I began my Miracle Morning Journey. This has been life-changing for me. Every morning, I wake up and complete this routine which includes affirmations, visualizations, prayer & meditation, exercise, reading, and journaling. Every day, I begin with positivity and gratitude. The difference these six simple steps have made in my life is beyond astounding. Even this night owl looks forward to waking up so she can complete her morning routine. 

In addition to affirming yourself and being grateful, it’s important to surround yourself with positive people and engaging in activities that bring you joy.  This can significantly impact your overall well-being. By incorporating small acts of kindness into your daily routine, such as complimenting a coworker or holding the door open for someone, you can spread positivity to those around you and create a ripple effect of kindness. Sharing kindness to others is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others and ourselves, just try it!

By making a conscious effort to incorporate positivity into your daily life, you can cultivate a more optimistic outlook and attract more positive experiences. This positive mindset can boost your productivity, enhance your relationships, and lead to a more fulfilling and rewarding life ahead.

Boosting Productivity Through a Positive Mindset

Additionally, embracing a positive mindset can have a direct impact on your productivity. When you approach tasks with optimism and a can-do attitude, you are more likely to stay focused, motivated, and efficient. By maintaining a positive frame of mind, you are better equipped to overcome challenges, tackle obstacles, and achieve your goals with a sense of resilience and determination. This proactive approach to work and life can set the stage for success and empower you to navigate any obstacles that come your way with grace and confidence. Because I start my day with positivity and allow myself to release my thoughts through journaling, I can better create a plan for my day. Want to know my little hack??? I use a study work plan to-do list! It is a simple booklet about the size of a phone, and it has pages of blank to-do lists so I can plan my day and check off my tasks. I love that it’s small and portable, so I can take it with me anywhere.

Overcoming Challenges with a Positive Outlook

Embracing a positive outlook can also play a crucial role in overcoming challenges that may arise in both your personal and professional life. When faced with obstacles or setbacks, maintaining a positive mindset can help shift your focus from the problem to potential solutions. Instead of getting discouraged or giving up a positive attitude allows you to approach challenges with a sense of resilience and determination.

By reframing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, you can navigate through difficult times with grace and confidence. Viewing obstacles as temporary roadblocks rather than insurmountable barriers enables you to stay motivated and persistent in your pursuit of success. With a positive mindset, you are better equipped to come up with creative solutions, adapt to changing circumstances, and ultimately emerge stronger on the other side. And that is the key! A positive mindset will take your mind off of the barriers or obstacles you are facing so you can see the solutions.

As you continue to cultivate a positive outlook, you will build a strong foundation for facing challenges head-on and turning them into valuable learning experiences. By embracing positivity in the face of adversity, you can unlock your full potential, achieve your goals, and lead a more fulfilling and enriching life. Ultimately, by overcoming challenges with a positive mindset, you can create a brighter and more optimistic future for yourself and those around you.,

Incorporating positivity into your daily routine can truly be life-changing. By shifting your mindset and outlook on life towards a more positive direction, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities. Imagine the impact it could have on your productivity, resilience in the face of challenges, and overall quality of life.

So What’s the Word?

Only you know what “the word” is for you! Every year, I change my word or phrase to focus on some aspect of my life that I want to improve. I have been training my mind to look for opportunities and solutions, and now I use my yearly word as a filter for all that I do. Last year, my word was “self-care.” I had neglected my doctor’s appointments, I stopped exercising and let my skincare routine lapse. I won’t tell you how long I went without seeing the dentist or my primary doctor! 😬 I thought I was on track with my appointments because I was taking everyone else to their appointments and didn’t stop to check on myself and my health, so I chose self-care as my word. I finally got everything taken care of and I am not back on track with everything. So you see, “the word” can only be chosen by you. What do you want or need to focus on this year? When you have your word, this becomes your filter for everything you do.

So, why not start today by adding this one powerful word to your vocabulary? As the saying goes, “positivity is a choice that becomes a lifestyle.” Make that choice today and watch as your life transforms in ways you never thought possible. And yes, it may not be January anymore, but you can start this at any time. Let your new year start today!

Warmly,

Deanna

3 Barriers to Success…

3. Limited Network and Support System

Ok so many of us laughed when she said this.

“Your support system is not your family and friends most often.” Okay, how many of us have shared our dreams with family members or friends and they thought you were crazy? ✋🏽 I am a part of this club. Now some people have awesome families that are super supportive and will do whatever it takes to help them make their dreams happen. But many of us have doubters in our close networks. They really do mean well and they think they are helping us to be realistic because they want us to succeed, but they don’t believe in the way we were created to succeed. I must say, this is not their fault. Your gift and vision were given to you and not them.

I heard this analogy that may help you get some perspective. You are a giraffe and your family member/friend is a turtle. When you get to a raised curb, you can clearly see over the curb but the turtle only sees a barrier. Sometimes we have turtles in our lives and it is best to keep things to ourselves.

We all laughed when she made us say this out loud.

“My family is not required to support me!”

Look for and network with people who are on the same path as you. This can make a world of difference in how you progress and most importantly gives you the support you need. Our families may be awesome, but if they don’t see your dream or believe in it, don’t let that discourage you from fulfilling your purpose. I am a part of a collective filled with women who are also building businesses. We met almost two years ago through a business course and we have been meeting consistently twice a month. These ladies are Ahmazing and I don’t know what I would do without them. This roller coaster ride is not for the faint at heart, but it is definitely easier with friends. Sometimes the people closest to me don’t get it, but they do and it makes all the difference.

✅ Action Items

1. Take time to think about and write down what you really want to do as a musician. What is your end game? Then start with the end in mind and go backwards so you know where you need to start. And start with just one thing!
2. Do a self-examination and think about how you really feel about success and failure. Once you own that and recognize your true feelings, then you can begin the work of changing that perspective so you can move forward with confidence.
3. Say this out loud every day or multiple times a day! “My family is not required to support me!”

If you want to learn more about how you can unlock your success through mindset shifts, check out Nicole Denise’s website HERE

And if you want to stay in touch with me, sign up for my weekly business-building emails HERE

Warmly,

Deanna 🙂