As the final week of lessons for 2019 comes to a close, here are a few details to keep in mind as we enter the New Year:
LESSONS start back the week of January 14th, 2019.
The first GROUP CLASS of 2019 is Tuesday January 22nd, the week after lessons resume.
The next RECITAL is Sunday March 3rd at 2:00 - this recital features the purchase of raffle tickets and candy grams to support the school and promote this community of musicians.
If you need violins tuned over the Holidays please let me know, I am around.
As always, keep playing so we can pick up where we left off in the New Year!
Thursday, December 20, 2018
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
On Repetitions
The 10,000 Repetition Challenge is complete and I am reveling in the outcome. Not only did we reach 17,357 repetitions as a group, but the progress that I have seen from individual players has been immense. It all comes down to not necessarily working more, considering those who completed many repetitions concluded it really didn't increase their practice time at all, but it's about working smart - working productively. This is an incredible lesson to learn.
At the last Parent Education Night I showed a video of a girl with her dad who is trying over and over again to jump up on a fairly high stool for her size. She takes what looks like some rough falls but her dad is there guiding her, supporting her and cheering her on. She always gets back up and tries again just as hard. In the last attempt we see, her dad comes over and whispers something we can assume is encouraging and then gives her a kiss and a gentle tap. She takes a breath and then with all her strength makes the jump.
This girl is taking one skill and doing it over and over again until she succeeds. She doesn't know when she will succeed, she doesn't know how many more times she will fall in the process. All she is focusing on is doing her best and whatever she can to land that jump. Over and over again, until she gets it.
What we don't see is the aftermath of this practice. Most likely she will fall quite a few more times if she keeps at it, but will also start to land it more and more times like she did the first time. Success Breeds Success. If we know we have done something once, we have the ability to do it again. If she were to stop practicing now, she can always say to herself she did it, but she won't be able to continue doing it regularly unless she keeps practicing.
This is the power of repetitions and repetitions on the violin are no different. They can be small and specific and maybe not as powerful feeling as a full body jump, but they can be just as fulfilling when accomplished.
Repetitions can be applied to all areas of our life that we want to succeed at. Who knows why being able to jump onto this stool is such an important skill for her to learn? But to her, it is and having dad encouraging her makes it even more meaningful. We all have things that we want to improve at, and only through doing it over and over again can we truly learn about ourselves and about the skills we are trying to achieve.
Even though the challenge is complete, keep up the repetitions and keep working smart and productively!
Sunday, November 25, 2018
Last Reminders
We are in the home stretch this week.
This is the last week to submit your repetitions for the 10,000 Challenge.
All the students have made some real strides to change the way they practice.
Congratulations and keep up the reps!
This is the last week to submit your repetitions for the 10,000 Challenge.
All the students have made some real strides to change the way they practice.
Congratulations and keep up the reps!
Tuesday November 28th
is the MANDATORY Rehearsal for this weeks recital.
Saturday December 1st
is the FIDDLE CLASS show at Chartwell Residence.
Sunday December 2nd
is the HOLIDAY RECITAL at 2:00
at Siloam United Church.
- ARRIVAL TIME: no later than 1:45
- DRESS CODE: whatever you'd like as long as it's comfortable and you can play in it
- no reception at this recital but there is a visit from Santa at the end
Thursday, November 15, 2018
Parent Ed Recap
First of all: Thank you to all the parents who came out Tuesday night. It was great seeing so many of you together.
We discussed in class how motivation comes in different forms. Some of us seem to instinctively have it, while others may struggle to find it. Motivation can come in waves or it can be constant and the comments I received follow this idea.
On how we motivate ourselves and our kids to make healthy lifestyle choices, many families commented along the lines of: "We just do it. It is expected, so it just happens." or "We do what we like and love. That is the motivation."
Many families also had motivational strategies such as:
a reward system, establishing routines and checklists, doing activities as a family and rewards as a family, visualizing the end result and setting goals, vacations, communication, observation, and modeling the desired behaviour to kids.
Motivation is different for all of us because we all live different lifestyles and we are all different human beings. However, we all have the same end goal of wanting to teach our kids the best habits so that they can go out into the world and be successful. With this in mind, it never hurts to have some strategies in your back pocket. Life is always changing and we need motivation when those times of struggle hit us, and the struggle can be real in violin lessons, in school activities and in any area of our life.
Ways I try to motivate students are:
100 Charts
Prize Box
One Point Challenges (like out current 10,000 challenge)
Providing an all ages/levels group class
Breaking things down into the smallest form so students can find success
Getting the chance to perform in different ensembles
Using social media to share content
Providing the opportunity to see other musicians perform
On that note: Thank you for your input on the participation in attending FREE SHOWS. If there is anything I can do to make getting to them more convenient, please let me know, otherwise I completely understand how hard it is to find time to attend an evening show, especially with little ones. We do what we can.
Check your calendars for Wednesday December 12th, as THE NEXT GENERATION LEAHY will be coming to play at the London Music Hall at 7:00. Let me know ASAP if you are able to attend. All student tickets are FREE and covered by Amy's Violin School.
As always parents, you are all amazing and I am so lucky to get to work with you and your kids and to have known some of you for years now. You all are a motivation for me. I am grateful everyday to all of you, that I am able to do what I do. Thank you!
We discussed in class how motivation comes in different forms. Some of us seem to instinctively have it, while others may struggle to find it. Motivation can come in waves or it can be constant and the comments I received follow this idea.
On how we motivate ourselves and our kids to make healthy lifestyle choices, many families commented along the lines of: "We just do it. It is expected, so it just happens." or "We do what we like and love. That is the motivation."
Many families also had motivational strategies such as:
a reward system, establishing routines and checklists, doing activities as a family and rewards as a family, visualizing the end result and setting goals, vacations, communication, observation, and modeling the desired behaviour to kids.
Motivation is different for all of us because we all live different lifestyles and we are all different human beings. However, we all have the same end goal of wanting to teach our kids the best habits so that they can go out into the world and be successful. With this in mind, it never hurts to have some strategies in your back pocket. Life is always changing and we need motivation when those times of struggle hit us, and the struggle can be real in violin lessons, in school activities and in any area of our life.
Ways I try to motivate students are:
100 Charts
Prize Box
One Point Challenges (like out current 10,000 challenge)
Providing an all ages/levels group class
Breaking things down into the smallest form so students can find success
Getting the chance to perform in different ensembles
Using social media to share content
Providing the opportunity to see other musicians perform
On that note: Thank you for your input on the participation in attending FREE SHOWS. If there is anything I can do to make getting to them more convenient, please let me know, otherwise I completely understand how hard it is to find time to attend an evening show, especially with little ones. We do what we can.
Check your calendars for Wednesday December 12th, as THE NEXT GENERATION LEAHY will be coming to play at the London Music Hall at 7:00. Let me know ASAP if you are able to attend. All student tickets are FREE and covered by Amy's Violin School.
As always parents, you are all amazing and I am so lucky to get to work with you and your kids and to have known some of you for years now. You all are a motivation for me. I am grateful everyday to all of you, that I am able to do what I do. Thank you!
Monday, November 12, 2018
Parent Ed Event - Tuesday November 13th
ATTENTION PARENTS:
Our Parent Ed Event is this Tuesday November 13th during group class!
I hold TWO of these nights throughout the school year and it's a great chance to talk about all things Suzuki Violin, stay up to date on everything happening within Amy's Violin School and an opportunity to get to know and hear from other parents who are going through the same process you are!
In light of the motivation the 10,000 Challenge has been instilling in students, we will be talking about what else motivates you and your family to practice as well as make other healthy lifestyle choices.
Another great motivator is to attend local concerts! The Next Generation Leahy is coming to the London Music Hall AGAIN on Wednesday December 12th at 7:00. Some students went to this last year and others have gone previous years and were so inspired by seeing these kids age 5 to teenager perform and play multiple instruments. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
See you all with hot drinks in hand on November 13th!
Our Parent Ed Event is this Tuesday November 13th during group class!
I hold TWO of these nights throughout the school year and it's a great chance to talk about all things Suzuki Violin, stay up to date on everything happening within Amy's Violin School and an opportunity to get to know and hear from other parents who are going through the same process you are!
In light of the motivation the 10,000 Challenge has been instilling in students, we will be talking about what else motivates you and your family to practice as well as make other healthy lifestyle choices.
Another great motivator is to attend local concerts! The Next Generation Leahy is coming to the London Music Hall AGAIN on Wednesday December 12th at 7:00. Some students went to this last year and others have gone previous years and were so inspired by seeing these kids age 5 to teenager perform and play multiple instruments. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
See you all with hot drinks in hand on November 13th!
Thursday, November 01, 2018
10,000 Challenge
Knowledge is NOT skill.
Knowledge plus 10,000 times is skill.
Every student this past week came to lesson knowing exactly what their practice spots are and was able to play each of them with ease. There wasn't necessarily nothing to improve on, but most spots were polished.
I could see the look of accomplishment on students faces who maybe struggled in the past with playing their practice spots in lesson.
Those who have always found repetitions in practice a breeze and are soaring through repetitions, have found other realizations in their practice.
From a teachers perspective, it has been incredible to not have to do the same practice spots week after week but to work on new material each week with my students. Instead of encouraging the right kind of practice and enough practice at home, I find myself praising every ones efforts, because there has been a shift in effort. Every student is flying through notes and skills and tricky passages. We have gained a new perspective on how to practice productively.
Productivity is the key here (rather than the amount of time practicing). From the few students who have done huge repetitions in a week, what they had to say about it was that it really didn't take that long.
When we can break our practice spots into small enough chunks, and focus just on those instead of run throughs, we can accomplish a whole lot in a short amount of time. Some weeks we may have bigger things to practice like gaining memory of a piece or adding in dynamics, but as long as we have new repertoire on the go or even polishing review pieces, we should never be limited by small spots to improve on. When we take a minute to play one small passage over and over, all of a sudden, we don't just know how to do it, we have mastered it - our knowledge has become skill.
As with so many Suzuki concepts, this concept that we are applying to our violin studies can be applied to any skill set we want to gain. When we can find the small steps in a given situation, we can take what is a new skill and make it manageable and fun, instead of overwhelming.
Keep up the amazing work and keep your repetitions going!
Thursday, October 25, 2018
1 Down, 3 to Go
Congratulations to everyone who played at the first recital of the school year on Sunday October 21st.
Before everyone played, I talked about the importance of walking on stage with bravery and leaving it being proud of our efforts no matter what happens. Many performers admitted they were nervous but never let it show on stage. There were smiles over silly mistakes and encouragement and support heard from peer to peer. There were so many clean and polished performances and everyone accomplished at least one goal they had in their piece and pushed their abilities to the next level. Everyone should be so proud of their efforts.
Now on to the next...
Here's what you need to know for the rest of 2018!
After a month of inconsistency, Group Classes are consistent every Tuesday from October 30th (wear your Halloween costumes!) - November 27th. We will be preparing for the next recital at these classes in November so don't miss out!
The NEXT RECITAL is Sunday December 2nd at 2:00.
The MANDATORY REHEARSAL for this recital is Tuesday November 27th during Group Class.
The first Parent Ed Event of the school year is on Tuesday November 13th during Group Class.
Students are working away at their repetitions. I'll be posting my observations about this challenge soon as it's been quite an eye opener for many of us, myself included, and if we reach our goal of 10,000, we will have a PIZZA PARTY at the last group class of the year on Tuesday December 11th (which I call our Ceilidh Class!)
So excited to see what we can put together for the next recital - repertoire to be released next week!
Before everyone played, I talked about the importance of walking on stage with bravery and leaving it being proud of our efforts no matter what happens. Many performers admitted they were nervous but never let it show on stage. There were smiles over silly mistakes and encouragement and support heard from peer to peer. There were so many clean and polished performances and everyone accomplished at least one goal they had in their piece and pushed their abilities to the next level. Everyone should be so proud of their efforts.
Now on to the next...
Here's what you need to know for the rest of 2018!
After a month of inconsistency, Group Classes are consistent every Tuesday from October 30th (wear your Halloween costumes!) - November 27th. We will be preparing for the next recital at these classes in November so don't miss out!
The NEXT RECITAL is Sunday December 2nd at 2:00.
The MANDATORY REHEARSAL for this recital is Tuesday November 27th during Group Class.
The first Parent Ed Event of the school year is on Tuesday November 13th during Group Class.
Students are working away at their repetitions. I'll be posting my observations about this challenge soon as it's been quite an eye opener for many of us, myself included, and if we reach our goal of 10,000, we will have a PIZZA PARTY at the last group class of the year on Tuesday December 11th (which I call our Ceilidh Class!)
So excited to see what we can put together for the next recital - repertoire to be released next week!
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Listen & Observe
"Right now my goals when I go to practice with Margaret is to remember SMALL STEPS, to LEARN WITHOUT PRESSURE, and to continue to LISTEN & OBSERVE as much as possible."
We all understand the importance of listening as Suzuki students and families. Just as every child learns how to speak their mother tongue language through constant repetitions of listening and observing, we can learn the violin in the same way and essentially any skill set.
Not only does listening and observing set us up with the foundation to learn any skill, it also sparks our motivation to learn and create.
I spent the summer going to numerous festivals and seeing all sorts of performers with Margaret. We had an incredible time, but I didn't realize how split my focus must have been between Margaret & the music until I was able to get a night out with some of my students to see Shane Cook perform at Siloam United Church.
I have been feeling completely unmotivated about what different pieces I wanted to teach for the Holiday recital. Every year we do something different like a pop song or movie theme and none of my ideas seemed right. So I started reaching out to students for ideas to try and spark something in me, and a tiny light was lit, but still I wasn't excited by any idea. Then I saw Shane Cook and the group of incredible performers who played with him. The skill level was outstanding, as I knew it would be, and they played many tunes I had heard before as well as a lot of new repertoire all with ease. These are true musicians, dedicating their life to becoming as good at their trade as they can, all the while learning from each other in the process, supporting their efforts and their successes, and essentially having fun doing what they do.
I came home from the show and got to work. And it all of a sudden came to me. I was inspired and excited.
But I was also disappointed in how few students took advantage of this FREE show I was offering. What an incredible opportunity to be motivated and inspired to get to work and to work hard - my next mission is to get more of you out to shows!
Just as the musicians on stage were openly learning from one another and supporting each other in their work, I think we all need to be aware of our own continuing education. Whether we are just starting out or having been coming to lessons for years, there is always more to learn. I think it is essential to make the effort to observe those in our trade, to learn from and respect our elders and essentially anyone with more experience than ourselves, and to not assume that we know all or that we are doing all we can do.
Getting out into the world, out of our heads and our lives can push us to be the best we can be.
In the Suzuki world, this can start with:
Learning never stops, nor should it. Life would be pretty boring if we kept doing things exactly the same. When we find motivation to learn and when we are inspired to do more, incredible things can happen.
We all understand the importance of listening as Suzuki students and families. Just as every child learns how to speak their mother tongue language through constant repetitions of listening and observing, we can learn the violin in the same way and essentially any skill set.
Not only does listening and observing set us up with the foundation to learn any skill, it also sparks our motivation to learn and create.
I spent the summer going to numerous festivals and seeing all sorts of performers with Margaret. We had an incredible time, but I didn't realize how split my focus must have been between Margaret & the music until I was able to get a night out with some of my students to see Shane Cook perform at Siloam United Church.
I have been feeling completely unmotivated about what different pieces I wanted to teach for the Holiday recital. Every year we do something different like a pop song or movie theme and none of my ideas seemed right. So I started reaching out to students for ideas to try and spark something in me, and a tiny light was lit, but still I wasn't excited by any idea. Then I saw Shane Cook and the group of incredible performers who played with him. The skill level was outstanding, as I knew it would be, and they played many tunes I had heard before as well as a lot of new repertoire all with ease. These are true musicians, dedicating their life to becoming as good at their trade as they can, all the while learning from each other in the process, supporting their efforts and their successes, and essentially having fun doing what they do.
I came home from the show and got to work. And it all of a sudden came to me. I was inspired and excited.
But I was also disappointed in how few students took advantage of this FREE show I was offering. What an incredible opportunity to be motivated and inspired to get to work and to work hard - my next mission is to get more of you out to shows!
Just as the musicians on stage were openly learning from one another and supporting each other in their work, I think we all need to be aware of our own continuing education. Whether we are just starting out or having been coming to lessons for years, there is always more to learn. I think it is essential to make the effort to observe those in our trade, to learn from and respect our elders and essentially anyone with more experience than ourselves, and to not assume that we know all or that we are doing all we can do.
Getting out into the world, out of our heads and our lives can push us to be the best we can be.
In the Suzuki world, this can start with:
- observing lessons, coming to lesson a few minutes early or a few minutes late to see other lessons.
- Coming to group class and recitals.
- Listening to the Suzuki music at home as well as lots of other music of your liking.
- Search around Youtube or Spotify for lots of artist you never knew existed.
- Attend local shows around the city.
- Ask questions and learn from those in your given field, those with more experience and those you admire.
Learning never stops, nor should it. Life would be pretty boring if we kept doing things exactly the same. When we find motivation to learn and when we are inspired to do more, incredible things can happen.
Thursday, October 11, 2018
Recital: Sunday October 21st at 2:00 at Siloam United Church
MANDATORY Rehearsal is this Tuesday October 16th at 5:00.
Failure to attend this rehearsal means not being able to play in the recital.
ARRIVAL TIME is no later than 1:45,
but you may arrive as early as 1:30.
Dress code is whatever you would like as long as it is comfortable to play in.
There is a RECEPTION at this recital. I like to have a variety so please consider bringing fruit, veggies, cheese/crackers, baked goods, etc. Whatever works best for you. I will provide water for everyone.
Looking forward to seeing all of you on the 21st!
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Learn Without Pressure
"Right now my goals when I go to practice with Margaret is to remember SMALL STEPS, to LEARN WITHOUT PRESSURE, and to continue to LISTEN & OBSERVE as much as possible."
When starting practice with young kids, sometimes there will be days when only the minimum gets done. There has to be focus for any learning to take place and children are not always able to give us focus when we ask it of them. Focus is a learned skill. So in order to teach them focus and a work ethic, we must be consistent in our daily routine, but stop the practice when the focus is lost. There can be games and strategies to try and regain focus, but sometimes, it is just lost, which means the practice is done.
This can get frustrating as practice can sometimes only be a few minutes even though you may have had some really good practices that lasted 10, 15 or even 20 minutes in the past. If we let our frustrations or disappointments show, children feel this. If they feel this, it will probably lead them to not want to practice.
Consider how you teach your kids in other areas of their life. When does forcing them to eat their vegetables or to go to bed when you say or not colouring on the walls really work when you put pressure on them. But when we model eating our vegetables or encourage bedtime by reading books with their favourite characters, or we support them in their beautiful drawings on paper, all of a sudden we get a different result. When we analyze our reactions, we get different reactions in return.
When we focus less on the product (setting an allotted time for practice), and more on the process (how we are actually practicing), children begin to learn far more than just the skills needed to play the violin. A focused 5 minute practice is going to be so much more beneficial to everyone than a 20 minute unfocused all over the place practice where you are not really sure what was accomplished by the end of it.
On the other hand, we should never be stuck at only 5 minutes of practice. If that is the case, then we are most likely missing another key component which is allowing the motivation to play fade. This could be as simple as making sure the practice spots are small enough as well as making sure to attend every group class, lesson and recital and to listen regularly to the CD. Ideally the practice time should grow as skills are added on and focus is acquired.
A parents modelling, encouragement, support and involvement is key not just for when kids are lacking focus or motivation, but in everything they do. And of course we know this, but knowledge is not skill (I confessed this in my last post!). Work with your teacher to make sure you are approaching practice how you mean to approach it. When we learn to put what we know into constant play, it gives children the comfort, reassurance and confidence they need to achieve anything.
Suzuki Violin Lessons are about developing the PROCESS FIRST (a child's character) and the PRODUCT SECOND (their ability). When we learn without pressure in this way, incredible things can happen.
When starting practice with young kids, sometimes there will be days when only the minimum gets done. There has to be focus for any learning to take place and children are not always able to give us focus when we ask it of them. Focus is a learned skill. So in order to teach them focus and a work ethic, we must be consistent in our daily routine, but stop the practice when the focus is lost. There can be games and strategies to try and regain focus, but sometimes, it is just lost, which means the practice is done.
This can get frustrating as practice can sometimes only be a few minutes even though you may have had some really good practices that lasted 10, 15 or even 20 minutes in the past. If we let our frustrations or disappointments show, children feel this. If they feel this, it will probably lead them to not want to practice.
Consider how you teach your kids in other areas of their life. When does forcing them to eat their vegetables or to go to bed when you say or not colouring on the walls really work when you put pressure on them. But when we model eating our vegetables or encourage bedtime by reading books with their favourite characters, or we support them in their beautiful drawings on paper, all of a sudden we get a different result. When we analyze our reactions, we get different reactions in return.
When we focus less on the product (setting an allotted time for practice), and more on the process (how we are actually practicing), children begin to learn far more than just the skills needed to play the violin. A focused 5 minute practice is going to be so much more beneficial to everyone than a 20 minute unfocused all over the place practice where you are not really sure what was accomplished by the end of it.
On the other hand, we should never be stuck at only 5 minutes of practice. If that is the case, then we are most likely missing another key component which is allowing the motivation to play fade. This could be as simple as making sure the practice spots are small enough as well as making sure to attend every group class, lesson and recital and to listen regularly to the CD. Ideally the practice time should grow as skills are added on and focus is acquired.
A parents modelling, encouragement, support and involvement is key not just for when kids are lacking focus or motivation, but in everything they do. And of course we know this, but knowledge is not skill (I confessed this in my last post!). Work with your teacher to make sure you are approaching practice how you mean to approach it. When we learn to put what we know into constant play, it gives children the comfort, reassurance and confidence they need to achieve anything.
Suzuki Violin Lessons are about developing the PROCESS FIRST (a child's character) and the PRODUCT SECOND (their ability). When we learn without pressure in this way, incredible things can happen.
Wednesday, October 03, 2018
On Teaching a 21 Month Old
Margaret and I started daily practice the beginning of September. You can check out some of what we've been doing on my INSTAGRAM@amysviolinschool .
It's amazing how quickly you forget what you teach on a daily basis when you suddenly have to do it yourself with your own child.
I was surprised by how my instinctual reactions where not what I meant for them to be.
I was surprised by how hard it was to remember to practice for a few minutes daily at the allotted time. (on numerous occasions I forgot and squeezed it in right before bed. Yikes!)
I was surprised by my need to pressure her to do the things she had done well the previous day but didn't want to do today.
I am constantly surprised by the things she knows purely through observation and listening (even though I know better).
I am constantly surprised by her motivation to play when other students arrive at the house for lesson (even though I know better).
As a Suzuki teacher, I do not practice with my child perfectly. I have already made mistakes. The great thing about our kids is that they are resilient and very forgiving. So we keep trying. We keep doing our best and we do what we can do. Perfection is not the goal. It is the journey that we take together.
Right now my goals when I go to practice with Margaret is to remember SMALL STEPS, to LEARN WITHOUT PRESSURE, and to continue to LISTEN & OBSERVE as much as possible.
If you are just starting out with lessons or maybe even just struggling getting back into the practice routine, try analyzing what you are doing. Most likely if you are taking small steps, you are relieving pressure and if you are making a point to listen and observe, you will be motivating yourself to do more small steps. It's a loop to success.
On the other hand, if you are just playing through piece after piece and not isolating anything, most likely you are feeling overwhelmed because every practice is the same and not going anywhere. Progress comes from isolating the small steps and practicing them over and over and this is also where the fun of practice is established because we feel accomplishment and want to accomplish more.
It's also important to remember to go at the speed of the child (or whatever age the student is, adults included), this is part of the no pressure as we all learn at different speeds. We can develop these high hopes especially in starting them so young, that if they can just do a little bit everyday, they will be soaring through Book 1 by the time they are 3. It might be a possibility, but it's not worth having deadlines or expectations on a 2 year old. They have always taken their time, from smiling to sitting to crawling, walking and talking, and will continue to learn things in their own time. All we can do is model and encourage and support.
I continue to support my daughter when she practices her twinkle variations (even though she still won't say Ti Ti Sh Ti correctly and refuses to say Mississippi Mississippi because Mississippi Hotdog is better).
I encourage her every time she practices a bow, even if it's when I'm trying to get us out the door, or when she picks up her violin with the worst posture and sweetly plays and sings twinkle little star.
As a perfectionist, I have to remind myself that she does not need to do every detail perfectly. As long as she is enjoying the process, enjoying learning, and finding joy in music, that is what matters and that is what keeps me going and her. As long as I continue to model, I know she will one day add that last Ti to Ti Ti Sh Ti (oh please I hope so!).
Being a Suzuki music teacher I thought daily practice with her would be the simplest thing in the world.
It's amazing how quickly you forget what you teach on a daily basis when you suddenly have to do it yourself with your own child.
I was surprised by how my instinctual reactions where not what I meant for them to be.
I was surprised by how hard it was to remember to practice for a few minutes daily at the allotted time. (on numerous occasions I forgot and squeezed it in right before bed. Yikes!)
I was surprised by my need to pressure her to do the things she had done well the previous day but didn't want to do today.
I am constantly surprised by the things she knows purely through observation and listening (even though I know better).
I am constantly surprised by her motivation to play when other students arrive at the house for lesson (even though I know better).
As a Suzuki teacher, I do not practice with my child perfectly. I have already made mistakes. The great thing about our kids is that they are resilient and very forgiving. So we keep trying. We keep doing our best and we do what we can do. Perfection is not the goal. It is the journey that we take together.
Right now my goals when I go to practice with Margaret is to remember SMALL STEPS, to LEARN WITHOUT PRESSURE, and to continue to LISTEN & OBSERVE as much as possible.
If you are just starting out with lessons or maybe even just struggling getting back into the practice routine, try analyzing what you are doing. Most likely if you are taking small steps, you are relieving pressure and if you are making a point to listen and observe, you will be motivating yourself to do more small steps. It's a loop to success.
On the other hand, if you are just playing through piece after piece and not isolating anything, most likely you are feeling overwhelmed because every practice is the same and not going anywhere. Progress comes from isolating the small steps and practicing them over and over and this is also where the fun of practice is established because we feel accomplishment and want to accomplish more.
It's also important to remember to go at the speed of the child (or whatever age the student is, adults included), this is part of the no pressure as we all learn at different speeds. We can develop these high hopes especially in starting them so young, that if they can just do a little bit everyday, they will be soaring through Book 1 by the time they are 3. It might be a possibility, but it's not worth having deadlines or expectations on a 2 year old. They have always taken their time, from smiling to sitting to crawling, walking and talking, and will continue to learn things in their own time. All we can do is model and encourage and support.
I continue to support my daughter when she practices her twinkle variations (even though she still won't say Ti Ti Sh Ti correctly and refuses to say Mississippi Mississippi because Mississippi Hotdog is better).
I encourage her every time she practices a bow, even if it's when I'm trying to get us out the door, or when she picks up her violin with the worst posture and sweetly plays and sings twinkle little star.
As a perfectionist, I have to remind myself that she does not need to do every detail perfectly. As long as she is enjoying the process, enjoying learning, and finding joy in music, that is what matters and that is what keeps me going and her. As long as I continue to model, I know she will one day add that last Ti to Ti Ti Sh Ti (oh please I hope so!).
Thursday, September 20, 2018
Shane Cook & The East Pointers!
I am too excited.
The East Pointers continues to be one of my favourite new groups and Shane Cook although I have grown up listening too, just keeps getting better.
Shane Cook is a MUST SEE violin/fiddle performer. I am offering this performance up to ALL REGISTERED STUDENTS regardless of if you have participated in a show or not. Tickets are going quick so send me your ticket #'s ASAP. He will be playing at:
Siloam United Church (yes, where we have group class!)
Saturday October 13th at 7:30
The East Pointers are something a bit different, still featuring traditional celtic music, they also perform many original pieces arranged for Fiddle, Banjo and Guitar/Piano. The only percussion is some really unique foot work by the fiddle player which is really something to see. They feature some vocal tunes and up beat tunes with a lot of harmony and rhythm variations. This unique performance is offered to those who did not participate in the LEAHY show last year (although I do recommend going anyway if you can!).
Aeolian Hall
Sunday November 4th at 8:00
Have young ones like myself who these shows are just too late for? Help me keep an eye out for some interesting matinees!
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
Practice, Practice, Practice
The theme for September is PRACTICE and the goal is EVERYDAY.
But why?
Playing EVERYDAY can be hard. It takes commitment and discipline, perseverance and consistency. It becomes even harder to not only play everyday, but to practice the right way so that we can be constantly improving and constantly making ourselves better.
Why should parents in particular put in the effort to establish daily practice for the young 3 & 4 year old's and encourage teenagers and the ones making their way through high school and beyond? What is the point when there can inevitably be immense struggle? It can take so much energy to establish, maintain and then reestablish these routines. So why do we do it? Is is just about the violin? About what level we can get to and what pieces we are able to play?
We need to remind ourselves as Suzuki Students & Parents that we establish daily practice because of WHO WE WANT TO BECOME WHEN WE DO IT. It's about what we are learning from the act of daily practice and not necessarily the end result of it on the violin.
Imagine two students leaving high school who have practiced daily from childhood and one has finished Suzuki Book 9 going off to University for Music and the other has completed Suzuki Book 5 and leaving for business school. Just because they are entering University at two different violin levels, does not mean that they are entering school with a lesser understanding of how to work hard, how they learn, how to break things down into small chunks and how to not give up. The act of daily practice can set both of these students up to be successful in their chosen field. The speed at which we learn the violin does not discredit the skills we learn through daily practice. For all we know, that Book 5 player may be far more proficient at their review pieces than the Book 9, which is setting them up with a strong foundation of skills they will carry through their entire life.
Suzuki violin lessons is not just about how high we can push our violin skills, although this can be fun and rewarding work. Suzuki Violin Lessons has always been about, first and foremost, creating exceptional human beings. It is about who we become in the process of learning the instrument and what we learn about ourselves along the way. These are the skills that will benefit us in all areas of our life regardless of if we ever fully master that fast finger passage in Gossec Gavotte. The struggle and the effort is what matters and it sets the stage to who we are as parents and who our kids will grow up to be.
So parents, keep doing your best, encourage every child to do their best, and remember to ONLY PRACTICE ON THE DAYS YOU EAT!
Happy Practicing.
But why?
Playing EVERYDAY can be hard. It takes commitment and discipline, perseverance and consistency. It becomes even harder to not only play everyday, but to practice the right way so that we can be constantly improving and constantly making ourselves better.
Why should parents in particular put in the effort to establish daily practice for the young 3 & 4 year old's and encourage teenagers and the ones making their way through high school and beyond? What is the point when there can inevitably be immense struggle? It can take so much energy to establish, maintain and then reestablish these routines. So why do we do it? Is is just about the violin? About what level we can get to and what pieces we are able to play?
We need to remind ourselves as Suzuki Students & Parents that we establish daily practice because of WHO WE WANT TO BECOME WHEN WE DO IT. It's about what we are learning from the act of daily practice and not necessarily the end result of it on the violin.
Imagine two students leaving high school who have practiced daily from childhood and one has finished Suzuki Book 9 going off to University for Music and the other has completed Suzuki Book 5 and leaving for business school. Just because they are entering University at two different violin levels, does not mean that they are entering school with a lesser understanding of how to work hard, how they learn, how to break things down into small chunks and how to not give up. The act of daily practice can set both of these students up to be successful in their chosen field. The speed at which we learn the violin does not discredit the skills we learn through daily practice. For all we know, that Book 5 player may be far more proficient at their review pieces than the Book 9, which is setting them up with a strong foundation of skills they will carry through their entire life.
Suzuki violin lessons is not just about how high we can push our violin skills, although this can be fun and rewarding work. Suzuki Violin Lessons has always been about, first and foremost, creating exceptional human beings. It is about who we become in the process of learning the instrument and what we learn about ourselves along the way. These are the skills that will benefit us in all areas of our life regardless of if we ever fully master that fast finger passage in Gossec Gavotte. The struggle and the effort is what matters and it sets the stage to who we are as parents and who our kids will grow up to be.
So parents, keep doing your best, encourage every child to do their best, and remember to ONLY PRACTICE ON THE DAYS YOU EAT!
Happy Practicing.
Monday, September 03, 2018
Happy Labour Day Weekend!
Even though lessons don't start for another week, take the opportunity this week to experiment with your schedules and decide where practice is going to fit in to your daily routines.
The amount of time you set to practice isn't really the point here. Although the more we practice, the more we learn and the more we will accomplish and be able to do, however, deciding to one day practice for 3 hours isn't going to make any difference in the long run. Without a daily routine, we are setting ourselves up to make learning the violin or any skill for that matter, a lot harder than it needs to be.
5 minutes of focused practice everyday, as a starting point, is an incredible habit to form. If we can make this feel easy, then we can eventually turn that 5 minutes into 10. 10 minutes into 20. 20 minutes into 30. And so on.
So start easy this week. Start with the minimum and put all your effort into just finding the time and playing something simple and easy. The work will begin soon enough - then the real fun starts!
Have a good first week back at school. See you all soon!
The amount of time you set to practice isn't really the point here. Although the more we practice, the more we learn and the more we will accomplish and be able to do, however, deciding to one day practice for 3 hours isn't going to make any difference in the long run. Without a daily routine, we are setting ourselves up to make learning the violin or any skill for that matter, a lot harder than it needs to be.
5 minutes of focused practice everyday, as a starting point, is an incredible habit to form. If we can make this feel easy, then we can eventually turn that 5 minutes into 10. 10 minutes into 20. 20 minutes into 30. And so on.
So start easy this week. Start with the minimum and put all your effort into just finding the time and playing something simple and easy. The work will begin soon enough - then the real fun starts!
Have a good first week back at school. See you all soon!
Friday, August 31, 2018
Don't Settle, Keep Learning
It's the end of August... somehow!
I'm getting into gear for the start of the school year as I'm sure most of you are as well. It can be slightly intimidating to know that fall is on the way (even if you are like me and absolutely love this time of year!). Lunches need to be packed, schedules made, books and papers organized, rides need to be arranged for activities... With the start of school and fall, I find myself looking for inspiration and motivation for the year. Ways to make things more efficient than last year, more productive, ways to enjoy this time of year even more.
So I wanted to pass along an article someone sent to me at the beginning of August. Something that really stuck with me is the idea that:
If we take what we learn and the discipline we practice in music lessons and apply this to other and all areas of our life, we can succeed at anything.
Let's start the year off with the mindset that we will experiment, we will try new things and new ways, always working to be the best that we can be - for ourselves and for those around us.
You can find the article HERE.
Enjoy!
I'm getting into gear for the start of the school year as I'm sure most of you are as well. It can be slightly intimidating to know that fall is on the way (even if you are like me and absolutely love this time of year!). Lunches need to be packed, schedules made, books and papers organized, rides need to be arranged for activities... With the start of school and fall, I find myself looking for inspiration and motivation for the year. Ways to make things more efficient than last year, more productive, ways to enjoy this time of year even more.
So I wanted to pass along an article someone sent to me at the beginning of August. Something that really stuck with me is the idea that:
Being a musician means 'consistently reassessing what you do'
If we take what we learn and the discipline we practice in music lessons and apply this to other and all areas of our life, we can succeed at anything.
Let's start the year off with the mindset that we will experiment, we will try new things and new ways, always working to be the best that we can be - for ourselves and for those around us.
You can find the article HERE.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, July 04, 2018
Registration is DUE!
Although registration is due in just a couple weeks on July 31st, thank you to many of you for sending it in before hand.
This is just a heads up that I will be sending out invoices for the annual membership fee within the week which secures your lesson time that we have agreed upon. It also gives you the chance to update any payment information for the fall if you would like to change how you pay for your monthly tuition.
If you have chosen to pay tuition by cheque, please arrange to bring cheques to your summer lesson or drop them off to me by July 31st.
If you are unsure about our agreed lesson time, you will either receive an e-mail from me shortly confirming (because most likely I'm not sure either), or please just send me a quick e-mail to clarify.
By the way, we are heading into FESTIVAL SEASON and there are a lot of (FREE!) opportunities to hear some amazing music.
This weekend is Sunfest in London (FREE).
Canterbury Folk Festival in Ingersoll (FREE) July 13-15
Home County in London (FREE) July 20-22
Shane Cook is in Stratford (FREE) July 26-29
Goderich Celtic Festival ($$$ - highly recommended) August 10-12
This is just a heads up that I will be sending out invoices for the annual membership fee within the week which secures your lesson time that we have agreed upon. It also gives you the chance to update any payment information for the fall if you would like to change how you pay for your monthly tuition.
If you have chosen to pay tuition by cheque, please arrange to bring cheques to your summer lesson or drop them off to me by July 31st.
If you are unsure about our agreed lesson time, you will either receive an e-mail from me shortly confirming (because most likely I'm not sure either), or please just send me a quick e-mail to clarify.
I look forward to another great year of music!
By the way, we are heading into FESTIVAL SEASON and there are a lot of (FREE!) opportunities to hear some amazing music.
This weekend is Sunfest in London (FREE).
Canterbury Folk Festival in Ingersoll (FREE) July 13-15
Home County in London (FREE) July 20-22
Shane Cook is in Stratford (FREE) July 26-29
Goderich Celtic Festival ($$$ - highly recommended) August 10-12
Go check it out!
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
Starting the Summer Strong
As I mentioned in the last post, although there have been no major life changes this year as there was last year, I have been struggling with a lot of minor, inner changes. Turning 30 unexpectedly made me face a lot of things about myself that I am unhappy with and made me realize things I want to work on changing. And although they are small things, a lot of small insecurities can add up to some really big problems.
My purpose for this blog has dwindled the past couple years as my priorities have shifted... but that's really just an excuse. I've stopped writing about what matters to me. Out of fear, uncertainty and many more things that I'm trying to battle. I plan on sharing a lot more once the new school year starts on how I've been changing things and how it all relates to teaching through the Suzuki method.
In the meantime, here is some inspiration to get active this summer, to work a little bit less, to spend more time with family and to do the things that we love to do. The amount of money we make and the hours we work mean nothing if there is unhappiness attached. And in the end, everyone around us will benefit so much more if we can do what we need to do to get rid of it. For me, the best way to gain some perspective is to go on an adventure. Any adventure.
So here's what I've done so far:
Ran my first HALF MARATHON
Rugged Manic 5k Obstacle Course
Performing with Celtic Shift
We haven't performed much this year, and even though I do not consider myself a performer, it felt incredible to be able to play this music that I love with a group of amazing musicians who challenge me every time we play together. The feeling of being up on stage and letting the music take over was exhilarating. Not to mention the Winter Fiddle Class did an incredible job in joining us on two numbers. So proud of you all! *SPOILER* A Christmas album is in the works for the end of the year, fingers crossed!
Declutter & organize the house = declutter & organize the mind
After moving and purchasing a home from the within the family (which has it's own challenges), adjusting to living on one level and just dealing with a 10+ year accumulation of stuff, I am getting rid of a lot. I am keeping only what we use and what means something to us. Although I declutter & organize on a regular basis, this has been a major project and feels incredibly freeing to be rid of so much stuff! Garage Sale this SATURDAY!
NOW...
Challenge yourself to look at your life and problem solve your way out of the little things that give you unhappiness. Even though there will be some things that we don't have much control over, more often then not our unhappiness is self-inflicted. Break down these walls and free yourself from the cages we put ourselves in. If I can do it, so can you.
My purpose for this blog has dwindled the past couple years as my priorities have shifted... but that's really just an excuse. I've stopped writing about what matters to me. Out of fear, uncertainty and many more things that I'm trying to battle. I plan on sharing a lot more once the new school year starts on how I've been changing things and how it all relates to teaching through the Suzuki method.
In the meantime, here is some inspiration to get active this summer, to work a little bit less, to spend more time with family and to do the things that we love to do. The amount of money we make and the hours we work mean nothing if there is unhappiness attached. And in the end, everyone around us will benefit so much more if we can do what we need to do to get rid of it. For me, the best way to gain some perspective is to go on an adventure. Any adventure.
So here's what I've done so far:
Ran my first HALF MARATHON
 |
| Crossing the finish line - instantly vowed never to do it again, and now committing to another round of torture in September. |
Rugged Manic 5k Obstacle Course
 |
| Yes, I am leaping over FIRE (one of the tamer obstacles)! |
Performing with Celtic Shift
We haven't performed much this year, and even though I do not consider myself a performer, it felt incredible to be able to play this music that I love with a group of amazing musicians who challenge me every time we play together. The feeling of being up on stage and letting the music take over was exhilarating. Not to mention the Winter Fiddle Class did an incredible job in joining us on two numbers. So proud of you all! *SPOILER* A Christmas album is in the works for the end of the year, fingers crossed!
Declutter & organize the house = declutter & organize the mind
After moving and purchasing a home from the within the family (which has it's own challenges), adjusting to living on one level and just dealing with a 10+ year accumulation of stuff, I am getting rid of a lot. I am keeping only what we use and what means something to us. Although I declutter & organize on a regular basis, this has been a major project and feels incredibly freeing to be rid of so much stuff! Garage Sale this SATURDAY!
NOW...
Challenge yourself to look at your life and problem solve your way out of the little things that give you unhappiness. Even though there will be some things that we don't have much control over, more often then not our unhappiness is self-inflicted. Break down these walls and free yourself from the cages we put ourselves in. If I can do it, so can you.
Sunday, June 03, 2018
Planning for Summer
Where did May go?
There was so much to celebrate this month, but it's also been a reminder of time gone by.
My sister, brother and niece all turned a year older, my husband and I have been married for 5 years, my daughter is nearing a year and a half and another year of teaching comes to a close in just a few weeks.
Although there are no major life changes this year, I've been dealing a lot of small inner changes over the past few months. Some days are great and some days I don't handle things very well.
When these days hit I can either drown myself in self doubt or I can get out of the house and do something. This can take a lot more effort than I'd like some days but having people in my life that inspire me and planning for the things that are important to me make all the difference.
As you start or continue to plan your summer for your kids and yourself, make a point to schedule in all the important things you want to do, as individuals and as a family. The summer goes by too quickly (and is really just a warm-up for how fast the remaining months of the year go by!)
Whatever it is you put on your list, make sure it includes getting outside, for the parents especially! No matter what we might be dealing with in our lives or what stresses we are trying to handle, getting outside is an instant release and refresh, and gives us new perspective to face our everyday challenges.
Here's what the Barten's have planned this summer:
As a Family Personal Goals
Festivals (Home County, Goderich, Stratford) Half Marathon
Gymworld Classes (for my tumbler!) June 16th Celtic Shift at London Music Club
Swimming & Splash Pads Newfoundland
Storybook Gardens Tough Mudder
Clovermead Rugged Maniac
Kusterman's Farm
Beach
St. Jacob's Market
Runs & Bike Rides
Rock Climbing!
Mustang Drive in
GARDENING!
As I've been telling my students, the summer is a chance to relax a bit with violin practice as they are not necessarily expected to be doing a lot of WORK. Progress on new pieces will be minimal and this is an acceptable break. What is not acceptable is to stop playing all together. So pull out those review charts or get creative and create your own review stations. Play what you know, maintain your skills, try something new and get inspired by going to festivals and shows. I'll let you know as the summer goes a long what shows you'll find me at!
Happy Summer!
There was so much to celebrate this month, but it's also been a reminder of time gone by.
My sister, brother and niece all turned a year older, my husband and I have been married for 5 years, my daughter is nearing a year and a half and another year of teaching comes to a close in just a few weeks.
Although there are no major life changes this year, I've been dealing a lot of small inner changes over the past few months. Some days are great and some days I don't handle things very well.
When these days hit I can either drown myself in self doubt or I can get out of the house and do something. This can take a lot more effort than I'd like some days but having people in my life that inspire me and planning for the things that are important to me make all the difference.
As you start or continue to plan your summer for your kids and yourself, make a point to schedule in all the important things you want to do, as individuals and as a family. The summer goes by too quickly (and is really just a warm-up for how fast the remaining months of the year go by!)
Whatever it is you put on your list, make sure it includes getting outside, for the parents especially! No matter what we might be dealing with in our lives or what stresses we are trying to handle, getting outside is an instant release and refresh, and gives us new perspective to face our everyday challenges.
Here's what the Barten's have planned this summer:
As a Family Personal Goals
Festivals (Home County, Goderich, Stratford) Half Marathon
Gymworld Classes (for my tumbler!) June 16th Celtic Shift at London Music Club
Swimming & Splash Pads Newfoundland
Storybook Gardens Tough Mudder
Clovermead Rugged Maniac
Kusterman's Farm
Beach
St. Jacob's Market
Runs & Bike Rides
Rock Climbing!
Mustang Drive in
GARDENING!
As I've been telling my students, the summer is a chance to relax a bit with violin practice as they are not necessarily expected to be doing a lot of WORK. Progress on new pieces will be minimal and this is an acceptable break. What is not acceptable is to stop playing all together. So pull out those review charts or get creative and create your own review stations. Play what you know, maintain your skills, try something new and get inspired by going to festivals and shows. I'll let you know as the summer goes a long what shows you'll find me at!
Happy Summer!
Sunday, May 27, 2018
Celtic Shift at London Music Club - June 16th
It's been quite awhile since we've put on a show so I am really looking forward to this evening to play some favourites from our album On One Beautiful Day as well as some new sets. The Winter Fiddle Class 2018 will also be featured during the evening showcasing some of the amazing (foot) work they did this session. Hope to see you there!
Friday, May 11, 2018
Registration Information
Here is everything you need to register for Summer Lessons, 2018-2019 Lessons and the Small Steps Summer Session:
Click HERE to register for SUMMER LESSONS
Click HERE to register for 2018-2019 VIOLIN LESSONS
Click HERE to register for SMALL STEPS SUMMER SESSION
Please check your email for FEE SCHEDULES (no changes to fees)
Access all lesson dates, group classes and recital dates HERE
There is FINALLY no change to registration or the calendar this year (no babies on the way and no moving!) I'm looking forward to a relaxing summer and hope you all can do the same!
Oh, and HAPPY MOTHER's DAY to all the incredible mom's out there! Enjoy the weekend with your family.
Click HERE to register for SUMMER LESSONS
Click HERE to register for 2018-2019 VIOLIN LESSONS
Click HERE to register for SMALL STEPS SUMMER SESSION
Please check your email for FEE SCHEDULES (no changes to fees)
Access all lesson dates, group classes and recital dates HERE
There is FINALLY no change to registration or the calendar this year (no babies on the way and no moving!) I'm looking forward to a relaxing summer and hope you all can do the same!
Oh, and HAPPY MOTHER's DAY to all the incredible mom's out there! Enjoy the weekend with your family.
Thursday, May 10, 2018
Congrats on a Recital Well Done!
As I watched everyone perform, I remembered last year's recital like it was yesterday. It dawned on me how different so many of the players are and how many faces were missing from past years.
The past 8 years of teaching have been incredible, but incredibly fast. Especially these last two years. It seems to be the side effect of having kids; time starts to fast forward no matter how much we try to stop and enjoy the small moments. Everything just flies by.
This weekend flew by way to quickly, so I want to take note of the incredible moments and music that I heard from two different groups of performers.
On Saturday, the Fiddle Class put on an amazing show at Chartwell Residence. I didn't feel like I was leading a group of students or that it was something we just threw together. It feel real and polished, heartfelt and powerful. We just played. Everyone knew what to do, and we all did it together. These students continue to surprise me in taking my crazy ideas and turning them into something real and amazing. I am so proud of these performers.
On Sunday, the Group Class performed advanced repertoire confidently and younger students demonstrated respect, patience and immense self control to be able to wait for the pieces they know how to play. These students put together ensembles with minimal rehearsal time and played them all beautifully and coherently. They all made my job way too easy and I am so proud of the individuals they are growing up to be.
Although I only saw a moment of it, my heart stopped as I watched my daughter on stage during Row Your Boat. I can't believe the little person she is turning into. She knows more than I will ever know.
None is these experiences would be possible without the continued support of all my students and Suzuki families. Thank you for supporting Amy's Violin School and allowing me to continue to do what I love.
Happy Spring!
The past 8 years of teaching have been incredible, but incredibly fast. Especially these last two years. It seems to be the side effect of having kids; time starts to fast forward no matter how much we try to stop and enjoy the small moments. Everything just flies by.
This weekend flew by way to quickly, so I want to take note of the incredible moments and music that I heard from two different groups of performers.
On Saturday, the Fiddle Class put on an amazing show at Chartwell Residence. I didn't feel like I was leading a group of students or that it was something we just threw together. It feel real and polished, heartfelt and powerful. We just played. Everyone knew what to do, and we all did it together. These students continue to surprise me in taking my crazy ideas and turning them into something real and amazing. I am so proud of these performers.
On Sunday, the Group Class performed advanced repertoire confidently and younger students demonstrated respect, patience and immense self control to be able to wait for the pieces they know how to play. These students put together ensembles with minimal rehearsal time and played them all beautifully and coherently. They all made my job way too easy and I am so proud of the individuals they are growing up to be.
Although I only saw a moment of it, my heart stopped as I watched my daughter on stage during Row Your Boat. I can't believe the little person she is turning into. She knows more than I will ever know.
None is these experiences would be possible without the continued support of all my students and Suzuki families. Thank you for supporting Amy's Violin School and allowing me to continue to do what I love.
Happy Spring!
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Year End Recital Repertoire (Sunday May 6th!)
Year End already?
May 6th is fast approaching as we head into spring and I've got a list of repertoire for you all to look at and get practicing. I have some fun twists to put on these pieces so please take note of the ones you know how to play and even some that you don't (you may have a part in them anyway!) Happy Practicing!
May 6th is fast approaching as we head into spring and I've got a list of repertoire for you all to look at and get practicing. I have some fun twists to put on these pieces so please take note of the ones you know how to play and even some that you don't (you may have a part in them anyway!) Happy Practicing!
Advanced
Introduction & Polonaise
Prelude & Berceuse
Prelude & Berceuse
Book 4
Vivaldi #1 (in the book)
Book 3
Gavotte in G Minor
Book 2
Gavotte from Mignon
Two Grenadiers
Long Long Ago
Musette
Book 1
Happy Farmer
Etude
Andantino
Allegro
O Come Little Children
Twinkle Variation
Twinkle Theme
Other
Fiddle Class & Row Your Boat Ensemble
Small Steps Class
Wishing
Wishing
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Celtic Shift Plays St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick’s Day @Church of the Epiphanyin the Manor Park Memorial Hall11 Briscoe Street W.Fully AccessibleSaturday March 17Doors Open at 7:00 p.m.Veg or Meat Irish Stew, Buns.Cake, Table Snacks all includedCash Bar- beer, Guinness, wineMusic by Celtic Shift (Dave Nuttall, Amy Barten, Steve Holowitz)with special guests.$20.For ticket call Judy or Bob at home: 226-378-1250The Church Website
Friday, March 09, 2018
March 4th Recital Update
Wow...
As I said at the recital, everyone was prepared and everyone was ready. Even knowing this, I was still blown away by all the solid performances!
I saw everyone demonstrate all the details we had been working on in lesson these past few weeks. The graduating students played Gossec Gavotte with confidence and ease. Seitz Concerto's were played with impeccable tone and clarity. The many Gavotte's shone in their unique ways and everyone landed form, intonation, big bows, tone and dynamics. Young Book 1 students set up their posture and played like professionals.
Were there mistakes here and there? Of course, but NO ONE let these little things get in the way of all the hard work that was put into preparing for the recital and all the incredible musical moments that were displayed. Everyone had a smile as they left the stage - this is success!
Thank you also for a successful fundraising event. Even though there were fewer of us at this recital, we ended up making more than at last years recital. I am so grateful for your continued support and hope the winners enjoy the prizes!
Also, be on the look out over March Break for the release of repertoire for the Year End Recital. Once this is released, please print or save the list and start working on these pieces!
As I said at the recital, everyone was prepared and everyone was ready. Even knowing this, I was still blown away by all the solid performances!
I saw everyone demonstrate all the details we had been working on in lesson these past few weeks. The graduating students played Gossec Gavotte with confidence and ease. Seitz Concerto's were played with impeccable tone and clarity. The many Gavotte's shone in their unique ways and everyone landed form, intonation, big bows, tone and dynamics. Young Book 1 students set up their posture and played like professionals.
Were there mistakes here and there? Of course, but NO ONE let these little things get in the way of all the hard work that was put into preparing for the recital and all the incredible musical moments that were displayed. Everyone had a smile as they left the stage - this is success!
Thank you also for a successful fundraising event. Even though there were fewer of us at this recital, we ended up making more than at last years recital. I am so grateful for your continued support and hope the winners enjoy the prizes!
One last reminder that I am taking two weeks off for March Break and lessons will resume on Monday March 26th.
Group Class will resume on Tuesday March 27th.
If you have any practice questions or need a violin tune up, I will be around home so please feel free to send me an email.
Also, be on the look out over March Break for the release of repertoire for the Year End Recital. Once this is released, please print or save the list and start working on these pieces!
Have a safe and happy March Break!
Friday, February 23, 2018
March 4th Recital Information
Our March 4th Recital is coming up next weekend! Here is what you need to know.
This recital will feature Solo Performances as well as three Graduating Students.
I'm looking forward to see who wins this years Magic Rosin and Mini Violin Lego!
Mandatory Rehearsal to the Recital - Group Class on Tuesday February 27th at 5:00 (extra rehearsals may be scheduled)
Arrival Time - 1:30
Bring pocket change to buy Raffle Tickets & Candy Grams!
Dress Code - Comfortable
Location - (as always) Siloam United Church
This recital will feature Solo Performances as well as three Graduating Students.
I'm looking forward to see who wins this years Magic Rosin and Mini Violin Lego!
Wednesday, February 14, 2018
AVS Fundraising
Fundraising for Amy's Violin School starts today! Although, winners won't be chosen until the end of the recital on March 4th, you can check out what you could win this year at lesson and start sending your Candy Grams to friends in group class (or family members!).
Candy Grams & Raffle Tickets are:
$1 each or 6/$5
Parents - have something that you would be able to donate to this years raffle (musical or non?) Please talk to me about it.
Here are some of the important ways in which this fundraising is used:
- covering accompanist fees for all students
- lowering or covering the cost of extra events
- purchasing instruments and materials for group and fiddle classes
- having musical prizes available to inspire hard work
- the possibility of bringing in guest speakers or performers
The act of sending candy grams I think is so simple and yet can bring together friendships and connections in this small musical community that can last a lifetime.
This year, every student will receive one 'free' candy gram to send to the student of their choosing.
I hope every family will participate in sending a few more to those who they have spent time with in group class or even to family members who will be at the recital supporting everyone's musical efforts.
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