With the end of April, comes the approaching end of the piano quarter (June 12).
Here's an update on the Group Lesson/Performance Class yesterday. So great to hear everyone! The students all came prepared and performed for each other. A (very) few of our young pianists were not nervous at all, while others were able to practice channeling their nerves into positive energy for their performance. It's wonderful to see them develop these important skills of accomplishing what they set out to do ... under pressure, with an audience of peers! We heard Bach (on the harpsichord - so beautiful!), Brahms, Clementi, Debussy, Schumann, Rachmaninoff, folk songs and modern composers. It's amazing to hear all the progress that has been made since the fall!
One class did a deep dive into writing rhythms. Everyone added a measure or two to the project, and we made up a brand new song. Even the youngest in our group were able to add some excellent rhythms, and the older ones were quite complex!
The other class had a brief overview of western music history, from 1600 to now, delving into how the cultural, scientific and political world influenced the musical and artistic world, and vice versa. It's interesting to imagine the life of the composer you're playing and what inspired their composition!
A few important upcoming dates:
May 1, 3pm: District IV Honors Recital @ Church of the Nazarene in Centralia (featuring winners of the WSMTA Competition - Chloe and Gabriel!). Free and open to the public.
June 7, all day: National Guild Auditions! Many students who are taking part will perform 10 pieces for a judge and receive feedback. Big project, but these students are working hard to get prepared for this big goal!
June 12, 3pm: Spring Recital! Westminster Presbyterian Church, featuring everyone!
Since our recital and Guild Auditions are about 6 weeks away, please KEEP PRACTICING and reviewing those pieces and technique! You can work to make this your best performance yet!
As we approach the end of the piano quarter, please let me know if there are any questions.