Playing Nicely Together

When we think of piano study, what comes to mind? Time spent alone in practice, lessons with just student and teacher, working diligently on a solo piece for a recital? By contrast, we probably assume that when playing just about anything else you can join a band, join an ensemble at school or church, play with an accompanist.... the possibilities seem endless. Does this mean that pianists are doomed to a solitary existence? No way! We just have to be a bit more creative and put in a little extra effort to create these great ensemble experiences.

For beginning piano students, the easiest way to jump into the world of collaborative music is through duets. Most students play duets with their teacher from the very beginning of lessons. But, when students pair up and their teacher takes the role of "coach", the dynamic changes in exciting ways. No matter how much advice the teacher gives from the sidelines, it is up to the students to make musical choices, listen to each other and choreograph their movements at the piano. Now the students must keep each other on task when it comes to steady pulse, good technique, listening, counting, and reading their notes correctly. It becomes obvious why these things are important- the ensemble can't stay together without them!

A major goal for our studio this year is to build connections. Connections between student and instument, student and their music, student and teacher and, last but certainly not least, student to student. I want to foster friendships and working musical partnerships. I know that many of my students are beginners, but I do not think these goals should be reserved for more advanced students.

Expect to see some duets coming home this month. They may be duets with me, or duets with another student. I am excited about the possibilites that this opens up for us, and hope you will enjoy hearing the music, and watching the kids work together. Here's to great music making!

Winter Recital!

As we begin our fall "mini-semester", I'd like you to save this very important date in your family calendars. Our winter recital will be held Saturday December 11 at 11AM. We will be performing at the Bethany Lutheran Church, as we have in years past. It will last approximately an hour.

Our masterclass day will be the week of the recital, on Wednesday December 8.

This will be a very special occasion, with plenty of holiday music. And never fear about the hiatus from lessons (and probably regular practice) that we're just coming out of! The music picked in our first week of lessons will be specifically for the recital.

A big goal that I have for our studio this year is to build a sense of musical community. I hope that all of you will plan on participating in the recital, no matter what level you are at in lessons. When we all come together to share music, it enriches the experience of taking piano lessons and builds our connection to one another!

Welcome!

I'm very excited about the start of our studio blog! You'll be able to check here for upcoming events, important information, and all manner of goings on for the studio. This will be a great way to stay informed and up to date on what's happening in the studio each week. Check back soon for our first Student Spotlight and Composer Focus updates! Cheers!