CALGARY PIANO LESSONS

"Piano Lessons"

2009-08-11T00:09:00.004-06:00

Some beautiful artwork accompanied by a recording of me playing one of my favourite pieces, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"

2009-2010 Lesson Schedule

2009-08-04T14:52:00.002-06:00

Lessons will begin on Tuesday, September 1st. Please watch your emails for information in the next week.

Pre-School Piano Lessons!

2009-08-04T14:25:00.002-06:00

New this September!

If your child is between the ages of 3 and 5 years old, it's a great time to introduce them to music lessons in a fun, friendly atmosphere. We will be covering a range of skills throughout the year with performance opportunities.

Group Lessons will be starting September 10th.

Please contact me for more information. Space is limited.

Group Lesson - Saturday, February 28th, 2009

2009-02-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

Just click on the "Picasa" symbol on the bottom right hand corner of the slideshow - then click on the "Album - Group Lesson" to view the videos in their entirety .... Enjoy!

L.V.Beethoven op.10 n.1. Adagio Molto

2009-01-15T14:16:00.003-07:00

Another interpretation of the Adagio movement

Piano Sonata No 5 in C minor, Op 10-1- Allegro molto e con brio Ludwig van Beethoven

2009-01-15T14:16:00.001-07:00

This is titled wrong ... it's actually the second "Adagio" movement ...

Beethoven: Sonata No.5 op.10/1 (Video 1/3) W.Nänni C.Bechstein Centrum Hamburg Klavierunterricht

2009-01-15T14:13:00.001-07:00

First Movement Only

2 Version of Chopin's "Valse Brilliante" in A Flat Major

2008-11-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

This post is for Christopher ... currently learning the "Valse Brilliante" in A flat major by Chopin. The first is a very old recording of Alexander Brailowsky, the second is Lang Lang (Note: Lang Lang the very coveted Chopin prize at a very young age ... hear the difference in the interpretation?) As per our discussion on interpretation (RE: to tie or not to tie ??? that is the question :o),it's difficult to tell in the measures we were analyzing if they are 'tying' the bottom notes ... hmmmm ....listen closely and let me know what you think ...

Aside from the 'tied note issue', listen to the variances in rubato and tempo choices: which do you prefer?

WELCOME "BACH" !!!!

2008-08-11T11:55:00.000-06:00

A warm and 'sunny' summer greeting to you all! I hope everyone has been enjoying their summer break ... It's been a fun and busy summer for our family - but I am definitely looking forward to share all my exciting new musical ideas with you all in September ... And it's only 21 days away!!!

Lessons begin the week of September 2nd to 4th (depending on your lesson day). All post-dated cheques should be in before September 1st and make sure to bring your binders (including paper please! :o) on your first lesson.

I hope your "BLACK KEY COMPOSITIONS" are coming along nicely - I am really looking forward to hearing them when you return ...

Make sure you check out a new link I found (down on the left hand side of this page) to the NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC WORLD MUSIC site. It is a fabulous resource and is sure to broaden your musical vocabulary ... Have fun exploring and listening!

See you soon ...

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

2008-06-19T18:10:00.001-06:00

The LCM Exam marks are in! Congratulations to all of my students who passed with flying colours (or maybe we should say 'bravura melodies'! ... piano humour :o)

An extra special congratulations to Matthew who achieved the highest LCM mark in our studio of 92% (with a 20/20 on his Playful Plesiosaurs).

You have all put forth tremendous efforts - your hard work has paid off and I give you a standing ovation for your determination and achieving lofty musical goals ...

WAY TO GO ON YOUR LCM EXAMS!

Our Year End Celebration

2008-06-07T14:03:00.001-06:00

Well done to all our fabulous pianists this morning! You performed with poise, courage and passion ... and I am very proud of all of you :o) Your stories and music were greatly enjoyed and I particularily appreciated how unique each of your "Musical Sentences" were - What a fun celebration to end our year of hard work ... Bravo!

I've included a link to an online Web Album for photo sharing - please let me know if you have any questions on how to download the album.

I hope everyone enjoys their summer break - I look forward to hearing all your tales of sunshine and laughter ... make sure to work in 'some' time for creativity at your pianos too! Don't forget to work on your compositions on 'black keys only' ... I can hardly wait to hear your creations!!

All the best - I will miss you ... we'll see you in September!

http://picasaweb.google.ca/AKAlbum/YearEndRecital2008

YEAR END RECITAL - SATURDAY, JUNE 7th

2008-05-20T16:06:00.000-06:00

10am until 12pm

Please watch your email for address details!

This year's theme for our Year End Recital is "MUSICAL SENTENCES" and as you all know, we've been working very hard to prepare pieces that have a story to tell.

All accompanying stories are to be prepared no later than Thursday, May 29th and a copy handed into me, if I will be reading these for you at the recital. Otherwise, we'll review your stories at lesson and you can bring them with you to the recital.

There are a few requests regarding the Year End Recital to "play along" with our theme ... Please come dressed in appropriate "SUMMER CASUAL" attire to celebrate our end of year. Also, please include a HAT or ITEM of your chosing to represent the musical story that your are performing.

Families are asked to bring enough FINGER SANDWICHES for 5 people (approximately 5-6 sandwiches cut into 4). Sweets and drinks will be provided.

One last important "note" :

PLEASE REMEMBER TO BOW AFTER PERFORMING

to thank your audience for their appreciation

I am really looking forward to hearing all of your MUSICAL SENTENCES !!! Keep up the good work ...

The End is Near!!!

2008-05-12T12:33:00.000-06:00

First, I would like to say to all of my students that I am so very proud of ALL of your efforts this year. You have proven yourselves to be dedicated musicians worthy of the challenges set before you. Also, a VERY BIG thank you to all of my parents who encouraged, supported and engaged in the musical journies of your child(ren) ... It's been a very full AND fulfilling year! WELL DONE!

Now, onto some year-end business!

Exams are fast approaching for those of you who are preparing for this process. LCM exams will be at the end of May (we are still waiting for confirmation - I will let you know as soon as I hear!) RCM exams are also posted on the RCM Examinations website. Please let me know if you have not yet received your confirmation numbers and dates for this. As well, due to the LCM exam date, unfortunately, our normally scheduled final GROUP LESSON for May 31st will have to be cancelled as there are now only 2 weekends of lessons left.

Normally we would be covering "Performance Techniques" during this Group Lesson - if you would like more information on this, just let me know and I can send an email with more details. These techniques will also be covered on an individual basis during private tutorials as per usual.

Our YEAR END RECITAL is booked for Saturday, June 7th at 10am and will be held at the same venue as our Christmas Recital (details to follow during private lessons). Make sure you are preparing your stories to accompany your pieces! I'm looking forward to hearing your generous creativity ....

Lastly ... I will be handing out my 2008 / 2009 Music Lesson Registration letters during this weeks' lessons. I would like to have them in before June 7th to plan for September and hold your spot. Please let me know if you would like to request an lesson time changes.

Keep up the VERY good work! We'll see you all at lesson time!

Master Class

2008-04-13T15:46:00.000-06:00

At our recent Master Class, we reviewed Piano Practice Principles and Piano Practice Methods ... Miss Syameena took some great notes and I've scanned them and posted them below. Our Lesson Calendar is coming to an end and we have alot to look forward to in the coming weeks.

Upcoming Schedule ...

2008-03-19T18:45:00.001-06:00

Everyone has been working very hard and its really showing during lesson times. I'm so pleased with the efforts and achievements I've been observing in recent weeks - you should all feel very good about your musical accomplishments! It has been a very busy year - and despite the dreaded flu season, busy schedules and musical challenges, I can hear your musical growth in your playing and performance ... WELL DONE !!!

Here is the upcoming schedule of events:

EASTER BREAK:
Friday, March 21st until Monday, March 31st - Happy Easter everyone! Enjoy your well earned break ...

GROUP LESSON:
Saturday, April 12th (10am until Noon) "MASTER CLASS" - Everyone is preparing TWO pieces for this Group Lesson. I don't normally teach a typical "Master Class", but I felt that in lieu of the upcoming variety of performances in April, everyone would benefit greatly from some constructive teaching and peer encouragement. One piece will be chosen at lesson by me and the other will be "Student's Choice" from your current piece list.

HARBOUR'S RECITAL:
Saturday, April 26th (9:30am until 10:45am) Pieces for this recital will be chosen for FUN. As always, there will be a celebration gathering at our co-recital teacher, Cathy's house following the Recital (from 11am until 1pm).

APTA FESTIVAL:
Please make sure you CHECK YOUR EMAIL for dates, times and location for your performance during the APTA FESTIVAL. The schedule is in and I have sent an email for those who have registered for this event. (May 1st to 5th ... )

YEAR END RECITAL:
Saturday, June 7th (10am until Noon) ... more information to follow ....

Music Buddies and Other News ...

2008-01-15T16:09:00.001-07:00

This week, by random selection, everyone has chosen and been chosen by a "Musical Buddy". Some of the topics for the MB's to discuss are: musical interests, opinions on performance, favourite practising tips, composing, current pieces that you are learning, what do you like to play for fun, sight reading vs. playing 'by ear' and performances you've attended and what you liked/disliked about them.

You can start discussions by clicking on the "COMMENT" button below and leave messages for your MB. Remember, everyone will be able to read the discussions - so feel free to use some of the questions from other MB's for your own dialogues. Also - you must click on the "ANONYMOUS" button before publishing your comment for it to save on the comment page.

I'll start your discussions with the following question:

"Find out your Music Buddy's most challenging piece he/she has ever learned"

On another note (ha ha :0) I've put two new LINKS on the blog. Check out the London College of Music website. They have all of their current syllabi online for your review (and have many categories of exams to suit a variety of interests). As well, I've added the APTA FESTIVAL link. Registration and the syllabus is open as of today's date ... we'll be registering asap for the upcoming festival in April (so decisions on pieces and programs must be finalized before the end of January).

Make sure to post your comments and check back often (once or twice per week) to see if your MB's have answered your questions or left some for you to answer! And remember - have fun and play well!

Welcome Back and Happy New Year!

2008-01-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

A very Happy New Year to all my musical families! I trust that your Christmas break was filled with wonder, fun, goodies and the many blessings of family and friends ...

It's hard to believe that January has arrived already! So, to help with the winter "slow down" that seems to creep in around this time of year, I'd like to remind everyone of some important upcoming dates:

January 26th: there will be NO Saturday lessons as I will be out of town for the entire weekend (make up time will occur during the next Group Lesson)

February 2nd: GROUP LESSON 10am until Noon (at this time we each be giving a small presentation to our "Musical Partner" among other activities)

February 16th: NO LESSONS - Enjoy your Family Day Long Weekend!

During this week's first lessons of 2008, I will be randomly selecting MUSICAL PARTNERS to share a musical journey with for the remainder of the Academic Year. I look forward to exploring this new focus with each of you - as well as hearing your ideas!

It is my hope that 2008 will bring many musical highlights, achievements and fond memories for all of you! See you soon ...

Another Wonderful Christmas Recital ...

2007-11-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

It was another great Christmas Recital ... everyone did amazingly well and the venue was exceptionally beautiful. I loved the "Bethlehem" backdrop - it really added to the festive mood! Mrs. Cathy and I have been doing recitals together for 7 years! My, how the time as flown ... it's been such a priviledge to watch many of the musicians grow up right before our eyes and a blessing to look out among all of the faces and see the many friends and families that come out so faithfully every year to enjoy, encourage and support our talented students.

Here are a few pictures for you to enjoy ... thank you for making the Christmas Recital one of my favourite holiday activities that I look forward to every year ...

The lighting in the sanctuary wasn't the greatest for "perfect pictures" ... please feel free to email me copies of photos and I will post them ...

Reminder for the Upcoming CHRISTMAS RECITAL

2007-11-17T12:04:00.000-07:00

Greetings to all the wonderful musicians and their families! Just wanted to post a reminder that the CHRISTMAS RECITAL is fast approaching. It is on Sunday, November 25th from 3 until 5pm at the Berkshire Salvation Army Citadel (in Beddington).

I'm really looking forward to all of the wonderful pieces and the presentation of the Christmas story, once again! It's such a great way to begin the Christmas Season.

FIELD TRIP!

2007-10-17T12:29:00.000-06:00

Sunday, October, 28th
1:15 - 3:00 pm
CANTOS PIANO MUSEUM

Please RSVP by phone or email and let me know how many will be joining you (Adult Admission is $8.00 and I will be covering the cost of my students)

Our Musical Community!

2007-06-23T22:34:00.000-06:00

Over the past 7 years I have grown to view 'our' studio as a MUSICAL COMMUNITY, where we all participate in learning, growing and giving musically - and where special relationships are formed among myself, my students and their families. It is a priviledge to be a part of such a talented and dedicated Musical Community and I am looking forward to what September will bring for us!

Please feel free to leave as many comments as you'd like on our BLOG over the summer! Let me know how your practising is going, ask questions or just say, 'hello' ... (Just click on the word 'comments' below and type your thoughts in the Comment Box ... )

Here are some thoughts for our upcoming Musical Calendar:

1. A "Music From Around the World" Theme to help us create, explore and grow our musical vocabulary.

2. A "Piano Buddy" ... a randomly chosen 'partner' from within our Studio that you will share at least ONE music related event, favourite piece, composer/author from one or more musical eras, duet or supportive commentary with. Be creative - but get to know your Buddy!

3. Hosting an In-Studio Festival ... inviting a guest adjudicator to critique individual/duet performances

4. Inviting a Concert Pianist to be a Guest Speaker/Performer at a Group Lesson.

5. Taking a field trip to the Cantos Piano Museum ...

6. Taking a field trip to a student's Performance Level Certification Recital ...

Those are just a few ideas - please feel free to add some more!

HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!

Why not try to listen to one 'new' piece of music a week?

Try tuning in to CBC RADIO 2 (102.1) in the morning ...

Let me know what you like/didn't like ...

Thinking about music ...

2007-06-12T10:02:00.000-06:00

On the way home from dropping the kids at school this morning, I was listening to the CBC (as I usually do). There was a wonderful array of musical offerings - Beethoven ("not 'grumpy' Beethoven", the announcer said, "but Uncle Lood-vig"). There was also Schubert and Vivaldi. I was trying to think of a way to express how the music made me feel. The sense of satisfaction I get from fully emmersing myself into the metaphysical world of sound represented in tones, rhythm and dynamics ... all I could think of was "it's like tasting a wonderful dish - really savouring the flavour of a good meal." It brought to mind one of my favourite performers - ANDRE RIEU ... listening to him is a sweet moment of musical bliss - WATCHING him draw his audience into a place of sheer enjoyment with his music reminds us of what the gift of music is really for.

Last night, I had the privilege of attending one of my student's Finale Concert (for her junior high band). It was held at the University in a beautiful facility. The school even set out some wonderful works of art created by the students. It was a cultural affair and I enjoyed it thoroughly! I wonder if they know how they blessed their audience with such fine musical and artistic talent? Even more, I wonder if they know how they really sounded?

There were a few minor flaws in notation, rhythm, dynamics and tempo. Yet, as I listened AND watched, I began to notice that their concentrated gazes, tapping toes and swaying bodies reflected an intimacy with their music that, without doubt, reached out to their audience and touched our hearts, minds AND ears in a way that was beyond the sounds they were creating. These fine young people shared their passion with us and in effect created a bond among our little group of anxious spectators that drew us into a place of oneness in the most joy-filled way. And all this in junior high!

Life can reflect this same shared passion. I could have chosen to merely sit and observe the concert last night (as some of the parents did ... even to the point of nodding off occassionally :0) But, that is not why I wanted to be there. I don't want to be an "observer" ... I want to consistently choose to PARTICIPATE in the processes, trials and elations of life - and not just my own! Last night, I allowed myself to receive the gifts that were being offered to me, with thankfulness - music, enthusiasm, hopefulness, anticipation, excitement, sentiment, expression and sincerity. As I sat in my cramped little chair among the rows and rows of people, tapping my toes, patting my knee and nodding my head in response to what I was receiving, I began to understand that the best part of all was the SHARED EXPERIENCE among a group of idealistic people (in the BEST way :0). These budding musicians were making the most of a great opportunity and ENJOYING IT!!! Hard work AND fun! What a concept!

And at the head of these smiling faces, waving his baton with gusto, was a man who's obvious love for music and pedagogy flowed out of him and into the precious lives of the children with exuberant, yet confident flair - the kind of confidence that can only come when you know that you are exactly where you want to be, doing exactly what you want to be doing, with all your heart - and the students RESPONDED to his encouragement and enthusiasm with a like-minded, passionate creativity.If I had gone to this performance hoping to hear all the right notes and receive an authentic performance of Pachelbel, Bach, or some other musicologist's view of traditional interpretation, I might have been a little disappointed. And I would have missed the point completely ...

Life's like that too.

"Even as a child, I was fascinated by the world of music. My father was a conductor, and I remember the huge orchestra and the wonderful sound it made, all those bows moving together – I thought it was fantastic. But even then I can remember being surprised at the sombre atmosphere during the concerts. Everybody looked so serious, you weren't supposed to cough or laugh, even though the music seemed to me to radiate so much joy! You know that solemn atmosphere you find in the concert hall with classical music, and how it intimidates most people and keeps them away? With us, it is simply not there.

My orchestra consists of young, enthusiastic musicians, who put their heart and soul into the music every evening when they play in our concerts. At one of our concerts you'll see me and the orchestra, and the audience too, all having a lot of fun together. Swaying with the music, humming along, clapping, jumping up and down - it all happens! Every evening is a wonderful experience, and in my view there couldn't be a greater pleasure for a musician.

When I was studying the violin at the music academy, somebody asked me to play in a salon orchestra. It was there that I played the waltz 'Gold und Silber' by Frantz Léhàr for the first time. What a revelation it was! I was immediately spellbound by that beat which, years later, has almost become the rhythm of my life: three-four time, the rhythm of the waltz. But with my own orchestra, I play a lot more than waltzes these days.

My dream is to make the whole of classical music accessible for everyone. To achieve that, I've had my own recording studio built, and we're working hard to make new recordings of the classical repertoire.

I hope I may be given many more years to make people happy with my music!" Andre Rieu

Year End Recital

2007-06-06T08:41:00.000-06:00

Well, another successful and fun recital ... Thank you to everyone who played so well and remembered to bow! It was a great evening and I really appreciated all the hard work and enthusiasm that was represented there.

As most of you know, my camera quit fairly early on :0( Please forward any photos you might have and I'll post them on here ... (I only ended up with 2!)

Thank you and enjoy your summer!!! See you in September (or next week, if you're doing Summer Lessons :0)

Our Last Group Lesson of the Year!

2007-05-26T14:24:00.000-06:00

Well, you made it! You've accomplished so much throughout the past months in you musical journeys and I am very proud of you all!

We had a great last Group Lesson ... well done on all the hard work, creative posters and wonderful playing ...

Remember for the Recital:

1. Approach from the RIGHT SIDE of the stage

2. ANNOUNCE YOUR PIECE
3. Approach the piano from the BACK side of the bench

4. Hands on knees, take a deep breath, HEAR your piece in your mind

5. Don't stop - no matter what ... just keep going ...

6. When you're done, hands on knees

7. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY .... BOW!!! :0)

Bowing says thank you to your audience ...

Have fun at the recital and we'll see you for lessons ...

Here are the Posters that were created to "GIVE THANKS! Celebrating Musical Gifts"

The Cyclical Form of Standard Repertoire

2007-05-14T14:24:00.000-06:00

Greetings once again! In preparation for my upcoming exam, I have created a symbolic representation of my teaching strategy with regard to the element of "Standard Repertoire" pieces of piano study.

Phew! That was a mouthful .... what I mean is ... there is a system of pieces that teachers (myself, included) are able to choose from - most often, we find these pieces in the selected graded repertoire in exam books for each grade (like the London College of Music books, Royal Conservatory books or Conservatory Canada books ... we can even find these important musical elements in a variety of forms in the Faber and Faber materials). Those Music Boards will make their choices based on the many collections and contributions of master composers, pianists, arrangements and technical offerings compiled over many years in the evolution of the piano, the performer and music itself.

But the question remains, why use a list of Standard Repertoire at all? What is it all about and is it effective in developing the skills of a successful pianist while nurturing a love for all things musical?

Many of my students will be surprised and perhaps even shocked to learn that I adhere to any form of "standard" anything ... my teaching style has always been, and will remain, focused on the learning styles and musical strengths of my individual students. However, I am a firm believer that from the enormously vast opportunities provided in Standard Piano Repertoire, a true pianist can be born. Not to mention, the ever-increasing availability of modern composers! (Christopher Norton is an inspirational composer of our day! His collection of "COUNTRY PRELUDES" is one of my favourites). Check out his website and learn about this brilliant composer ...

http://www.christophernorton.com/

So ... my questions to you - my students ...

1. How many pieces can you list from each era and for each completed grade (you may include the current 2006/2007 calendar), THAT YOU PERSONALLY HAVE LEARNED (or a style of piece for each era) ??? I bet you will be pleasantly surprised by the length of your repertoire and variety of pieces you have accomplished over the year(s).

Another question is,

2. Can you think of titles for each of the eras that might explain their musical styles other than what has been given above?

3. Can you name the specific musical styles for each piece on your list? (For example: and easy one might be "Minuet" by J.S. Bach in Grade 3 - well, the era is simple; it's the Baroque era and it's a MINUET (dance) ... what about LINUS AND LUCY from the Charlie Brown theme? :0)

Bring your lists to lessons and we'll review them together!

ENJOY YOUR TASK!

Dates and things ...

2007-05-02T10:25:00.000-06:00

Well, the year certainly has come and gone so very quickly! I can't believe it ... our final lessons are flying by and there are many preparations to be made for final exams and our last recital! It has truly been a great joy for me to teach all of you this year (and many years, for some :0) I hope you have enjoyed your musical journey and you have been inspired to continue on with your studies and creative endeavours.

Here are some dates for the year end:

Final Recital: June 1st (Friday evening) at 7pm at Centre Street Church - this is a bit of a change from the original date given ... please make note of this (I will email you directions, etc.)

Final Exams with my studio: Tuesday students will be May 29th, Wednesday students will be May 30th, Thursday students will be May 24th and Saturday students will be June 2. (I will be emailing further details ... all exams within my studio will be taking place AFTER the Group Lesson)

LCM PRACTICAL EXAMS: June 4th and 5th (Monday and Tuesday). Final times and places have not yet been confirmed - I will be contacting you as soon as I hear ...

Final Group Lesson: Saturday, May 26th (10am until Noon). This will be a Recital/Exam preparation class

Final Lessons: starting the week of June 4th to 9th

Reminder: There are no lessons over the May Long Weekend (Saturday, May 19th to Monday the 21st)

Pianist, Sam Rotman - Performing!

2007-04-19T18:48:00.000-06:00

Mr. Sam Rotman, Concert Pianist

will be performing at the

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH on

Friday, April 20th at 7pm

This is a wonderful opportunity for students and families to enjoy an evening of musical inspiration together!

I hope you will find the time to attend.

Cost of the evening is a

FREEWILL OFFERING.

Here is a link to Mr. Rotman's website for further information about this artist:

http://www.samrotman.com/About.htm

Recital Stuff!

2007-03-25T15:40:00.000-06:00

Greetings! What a wonderful recital! The older folks absolutely loved all of the students and the music they chose to present to them. Many hummed and sang along. The students visited with their audience briefly afterwards and I was so pleased to see the students graciously accepting their thanks.

I've broken down the videos of all the students below. Feel free to enjoy them all or just scroll through until you find your 'favourite performer'. I am so proud of the enthusiasm, motivation and performance etiquette that each student displayed - it is especially wonderful to see it in this context! Well done my budding pianists - well done, indeed!

The following video is of Isabel, performing 'The Yogi Bear Song'.

Emily, Jenna, Stephanie and Jakob

2007-03-25T15:32:00.000-06:00

Here are Emily, Jenna, Stephanie and Jakob at the March 24th Recital. Remember to pause the music widget at the side so it doesn't interfere with the sound from the videos :0)

Emily is playing "Matchmaker" from the movie and broadway musical, 'Fiddler On the Roof', Jenna is playing "Over the Rainbow" from the movie, 'The Wizard of Oz', Stephanie is playing 'Bluebird On My Shoulder' (an oldtime favourite) and Jakob is playing another sing-a-long favourite, 'Yankee Doodle'.

Christopher, Carlie, Sarah and Matthew

2007-03-25T15:06:00.000-06:00

Here are Christopher, Carlie, Sarah and Matthew at the March 24th Recital ... Remember to pause the 'music widget' at the side so that it doesn't interfere with the sound from the videos.

Christopher is playing "Sunrise, Sunset" from the movie and broadway musical 'Fiddler On the Roof', Carlie is playing "The Linus and Lucy" theme from 'Peanuts', Sarah is playing another 'Fiddler On the Roof' classic called "Tradition" and Matthew is playing "The William Tell Overture" (better known as: "The Lone Ranger" from the classic television series :0)

A Work In Progress . . .

2007-03-15T18:24:00.000-06:00

Welcome! Here is a taping of Miss Carlie performing the "Sonatina in C Major, opus 36, no.1" by Muzio Clementi. (Well done to those of you who guessed the portrait correctly! It is Muzio Clementi!) It is a very famous piano piece and she has been working on it for a couple of months now. It is six pages long and requires good attention to counting, fingering and tonal control. Miss Carlie is doing very well in preparing this piece and I wanted to share it with you. Make sure you pause the music-widget so that you only here ONE piece at a time! :0)

Can you identify the different parts to the Sonatina? There are 3 - (Allegro, Andante, Presto?)

The Piano Six

2007-03-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, on CBC Radio 2 (102.1 fm), during the "Studio Sparks" program, the renowned pianist, Janina Fialkowska was performing a number of works (including a presentation of Chopin works and a Romance from Robert Schumann).

This amazing musician and teacher has recovered from cancer in her left arm (after undergoing serious medical care, including surgery). She has extremely limited movement in her left arm (eating, driving and simple everyday movements that we take for granted) EXCEPT when playing the piano. She, graciously, attributes this to the fact that she does not need to move her arm around very much in order to play. She also states, "I can only practice 3 to 3 1/2 hours a day now."

Ms. Fialkowska was one of the founding members of the group called the "Piano Six" (which has since been named, "Piano Plus"). These six pianists travelled to remote areas all over Canada to perform and provide people with access to live performances of classical repertoire. To learn more about this inspirational performer and teacher, I have included a small excerpt from the Encyclopedia of Music in Canada site as well as a direct link to Janina's personal website.

"Piano Six won the National Music Award from the Jean A. Chalmers Foundation in 2000. The plaudits and praise showered on the group by audience members and teachers in the host communities made it clear that their performances were deeply appreciated. Organizers also reported greater success in fundraising projects, as well as increasing audiences, following a Piano Six member's visit. Although not the first organization to make possible classical concerts in small-town Canada, Piano Six's efforts were marked by their emphasis on affordability and on making classical music accessible to school children, by its concentration on the piano repertoire, and the provision of workshops for teachers and piano students."
Author Betty Nygaard King

http://www.janinafialkowska.com/default.aspx

Recital Reminder

2007-03-08T22:11:00.000-07:00

Greetings, music lovers! I just wanted to send a reminder that our Spring Recital is approaching quickly ... March 24th! Only two weeks away! I hope everyone is practicing well and consistantly :0) Don't forget, there will be a party at Mrs. Cathy's following the recital (double check your emails and notes in your binder). I'm sure looking forward to hearing you all play together again and hope you have alot of fun sharing your musical gifts.

Just for fun ... can anyone guess who this composer is? Let me know at your next lesson and pick a prize! (Here's a hint: he's known as the father of 'TRUE LEGATO' sound!)

Stay tuned for more tips on Exam Preparation: Sight Reading, Aural Training and Viva Voce!

The Cantos Gallery & Museum

2007-02-17T16:31:00.000-07:00

We have a fantastic resource and facility right in our midst. The Cantos Gallery & Museum offers and abundance of resources for pianists both at the museum and online. (Check out the link to the timeline for the evolution of the piano! (To the left under the "Link" heading :0) They offer tours (both virtual online AND in person) and have a wonderful community oriented vision! Here is a quick link to their keyboard collection on their website - it is definately worth a look!

http://www.cantos.ca/collection/collectiongallery.html#Pianos

The following statement is from their website, as well:

Our Vision:
To motivate the community to embrace music and to understand its relevance in their own lives and how it affects their mind, body and spirit.

Our Mission:
Present educational and entertaining music programs targeted at diverse communities, through the preservation, presentation and use of the keyboard collection, music in general and by developing and nurturing innovative partnerships within the community.

This would be a wonderful option as a field trip ... in addition to or in lieu of the CPO. Please let me know your interest! Thank you!

To Inspire You ...

2007-02-12T13:06:00.000-07:00

Greetings! I hope everyone is keeping warm and using their time 'inside' wisely with good practicing and enjoying the wonderful gift of music, while the snowflakes fall to the ground outside :0)

Here is the website for the CPO ... check out the many presentations and listen to a bit of what they are offering ...

http://cpo-live.com/main/

Why go to the CPO? I'll let their new conductor, Maestro Robert Minczuk, say it (By the way, did you know the word 'maestro' means 'teacher' or 'master of a particular subject' ?):

"We love music because among the many feelings it gives us, it is an overwhelming source of inspiration ... People come to concerts not only to hear music but also to see it happening. It is quite fascinating to observe how musicians and conductor can be so involved with the music, the instruments, the audience and with one another . . . We invite you, our beloved audience and the most important part in the orchestra concert experience, to be inspired by and with us, on this wonderful live musical journey."

I was looking over the CPO - Orchestra brochure and marvelling at all the wonderful opportunities to enjoy some really great music! For example, in March, there is a FAMILY SPECIAL on Sunday, March 11th at 2pm of "Peter and the Wolf". It is a fantastic, musically inspired symphony using the orchestra instruments as characters in this classic "tail" :0) It's a favourite of mine and a perfect introduction to the world of classical music for children and families ... Also, at the end of March (Friday the 30th and Saturday the 31st), is a production of the " "New World Symphony" by Antonin Dvorak combined with Gershwin classics (who we heard a 'taste' of during GROUP LESSON! :0) What a great opportunity to re-affirm all of the knowledge we gained about the Romantic Era and share it with the family! For the more "Baroque" inclined, there is a presentation of 'Brandenburg and Company' on Wednesday, May 16th. (Do you remember who composed the Brandenburg Concertos? Let me know at your next lesson and get a prize! Here's a hint: this composer's last name starts with "B")

The CPO offers many Family-focused programs and pricing that can suit your budget. Check out "Saturday Morning at the Symphony - SMATS" as well as other 'low cost'options (like loft seating, rush tickets and 'cpossibilities').

I was mulling over the idea of a Field Trip to the Symphony in June; a kind of precursor to our year end Recital (June 9th) ... The CPO is presenting Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff (remember the pianist who could reach a '13th' on the piano?) on Friday, June 1st at 8pm. Please let me know if this would interest any of you and we'll start making arrangements for tickets (parents are welcome! :0) LISTENING to the many varieties of music that we study is an important part of developing the necessary skills to become proficient musicians of our instrument. Our ears become 'atuned' to the more and more complex sounds and we become acutely aware of harmonies and rhythms we had not been aware of before! Let's try the technique of ACTIVE LISTENING and visit the CPO!

P.S. The art I've included here is entitled, "L'envolee Lyrique" by Dominique Guillemard

Group Lesson #2

2007-01-28T17:51:00.000-07:00

Another successful and fun-filled Group Lesson was accomplished on Saturday morning. We had a good turn out of 9 students and were able to create 3 teams to complete the tasks at each of the 4 stations.

The Listening Station is always a favourite of mine and of course the Creative Exercise Station is alot of fun. Everyone did VERY well on their quizzes! :0)

I wanted to commend the older students for their dedication and willingness to assist the beginner level students with their tasks. I was very impressed - well done!

I look forward to seeing all of you at lessons - and handing out your Mid-Term Report Cards!

Happy New Year!

2007-01-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

Well, we're back to it once again. I hope your holidays were wonderful and that you are ready to approach the final 5 months of music with enthusiasm and perserverance :0) You've all shown yourselves to be fine musicians and I am so proud of your efforts and attitudes! Well done! Keep up the great work!

As you know, we have a GROUP LESSON coming up very soon. Saturday, January 27th from 9am until Noon. It will be an "Exam" focused lesson. Even if you're not taking an exam this year, it is a very beneficial exercise to chart our progress and focus our musical intentions :0)

I wanted to make mention of the amazing progress I've seen in all of you with regards to your technique. I have observed great strides in your attention to the importance of good technique and it shows in your playing. Be encouraged as you are rewarded with increased challenges in your pieces as we continue on this musical journey together.

From my perspective, TECHNIQUE is the foundation of becoming a pianist - dare I say, even moreso than Theory (although, that may be for my less than enthusiastic affinity towards that subject :0) Ah well, we do what we must, yes? Technique is so crucially important to the pianist because it is the very element that will allow you to make the sound required for each particular piece you play. You may be a fantastic sight reader or the most gifted ear player, but if you do not train your fingers, hands, wrists, arms and body to perform the tasks required, you will not produce the sound needed to give expression to your pieces in order to communicate with your audience. So what is TECHNIQUE?

Technique would include arm weight, finger dexterity and independence, proper hand position and posture and as you become more advanced, an increasing understanding of the wrist/hand/finger movements required in order to play with skill and ease. With this understanding, it is why I appreciate the options that the London College of Music provides for students to choose scales/triads/arpeggios, etc. or a Study as provided in the Graded Exam books. There are many ways to reach the same end! :0)

Simply said, TECHNIQUE + theory + sight reading + ear training + historical understanding = COMPREHENSIVE MUSICIANSHIP in piano (that means you have BECOME a pianist :0)

Here are a couple of links to the London College of Music WEBSITE for your review. There are some fantastic publications available for students as well as the new addition of CDs to accompany the GRADED EXAMINATION BOOKS. For months, I have been hoping to create my own CDs of the exam pieces for my students for ear and rhythm training. However, as day to day life often does, that project has been "put on the back burner" a few times :0) With gratefulness, I have found these CDs and encourage you to send for them according to your Grade. Please let me know if you have any questions!

http://mercury.tvu.ac.uk/lcmexams/LCMExamsHome.htm

http://www.stainer.co.uk/acatalog/LCMPiano.html

I hope you are enjoying your learning experience and I look forward to seeing you all again soon!

Our First Christmas Concert

2006-12-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas!

We had a great concert on Saturday afternoon. Everyone did very well and had great courage to play in front of the many family and friends that came out to support the budding musicians - you all played with poise and professionalism :0) And what a special treat to have our guest vocalist sing one of my favourite Christmas songs to start off our celebration.

Thank you to all the students, teachers and loved-ones who came to enjoy and celebrate the music of this special season. It was wonderful see all the appreciative smiles and hear the joyful clapping. We are truly blessed as teachers to have such enthusiastic families involved with our studios.

I would like to give a heartfelt thank-you to my friend and fellow-teacher, Cathy, for putting together the majority of not only this Christmas Concert, but our yearly recitals, as well. Because of her efforts, organizational talents and leadership, we were able to have our guest vocalist, the readings, song lists, programs, coffee and treats, as well as the wonderful gift of music through her many students, that we all enjoy so much. She serves her students and fellow-teachers with humility and love and I appreciate her more than these mere words can express. God bless you, Cathy - I'm truly thankful for your friendship.

We did manage to get a group photo! :0) There are a few missing (you know who you are - and we'll get you next Group Lesson).

Just a reminder - our next recital and Christmas Party is coming up fast - December 16th. (More details will be given at lessons this week :0) Also, lessons will run all the way to December 21st (Thursday) and re-commence January 8th (Monday). See you all soon and again,

Merry Christmas!

The Importance of Arm Weight

2006-11-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

Here are photos of some of my wonderful students! There will be more to follow ... so keep checking back :0) If you can show me the experiment below ... you can pick a prize!

I would like to pose a question ... When you are walking down the street - which muscles do you think do the majority of the work? The smaller muscles in your feet? or the larger muscles in your legs? Well? Yes - the larger muscles in your legs do the majority of the work when you are walking - and this is for a good reason - they are BIGGER and able to handle more strain than the smaller ones found in your feet. So, why am I talking about feet and legs when we are learning to play the piano?!?!

Try this little experiment ... play a simple C major TRIAD with your right hand while gently holding your wrist (fingers on the bottom side - thumb on top). For beginner students - just try pressing the Middle C key down with Finger '3' ... HOW MUCH TENSION DO YOU FEEL IN YOUR WRIST? If you can feel your muscles tightening up, then you are not using the full extent of ARM WEIGHT and the large muscles in your arm! :0) This is an ARM WEIGHT DROP.

You might be able to get away with playing with FLAT fingers and TENSE muscles in your wrist for a little while - but sooner or later, you can develop TENDONITIS and that is not fun! So, what should you do?

When you play your TRIAD (or your Middle C note) try relaxing your wrist and letting it drop ... don't let your wrist lay on the keys - but do let it drop enough that the muscles in your fore-arm take over where your hand/wrist muscles left off. Try to imagine someone giving you a karate chop on the top of your wrist - and watch it "collapse" while your play your notes :0)

As you move your hand to the next note (or set of notes), use your forearm muscles to lift your hand and let it dangle (like a puppy with a "sore paw") - or imagine that you have a helium balloon tied to your wrist and it's making your arm float up. Randall Faber talks about making "rainbows".

Our First Group Lesson!

2006-10-16T09:06:00.000-06:00

We had our first group lesson on Saturday morning. Everyone arrived bright-eyed and ready to learn, right? I was very pleased with everyone's efforts and marvelled at the amazing talents of my students. Well done!

We covered a lot of information in a relatively short time (reviewing both the Baroque and Classical eras and then moving right into the Romantic Era.) I really enjoyed being able to get together with all of my students. Being a pianist can be kind of lonely. You practice alone, you usually play alone . . . and mostly that's ok. However, I believe it is important to remember that as musicians, we are part of a greater community and can enjoy each other's personalities and abilities. For this past Group Lesson, after the teaching time, we broke into three teams. Each team was as unique as the people who were a part of it. They each took turns working through the following 'stations' around my home, completing projects and creative exercises:

1. Quiz/Colouring Station: This was my personal favourite (I'm not sure how many students would agree). For my students older than 7, I provided an open-book quiz and encouraged them to help each other search for answers among their notes. For my younger students, a colouring book was ready to receive 'life' :0) (And for the older students who wanted to take a Colouring Book home, that was ok too . . . right Laura? :0) Don't forget, by the way, quizzes that were not completed during the Group Lesson need to be finished and brought to your next lesson for marking . . . and then they will be sent back home for your parents to initial.

2. Listening Station: I chose 3 compositions from each of the eras we had studied and asked the teams to identify composer, era and important characteristics of each of the pieces. I was delighted to see the teams fully engaged in this task. My two youngest students (5 and 6) were especially fun to watch as they got themselves comfortable on my couch, closed their eyes, and "took it all in".

3. Technique Station: ah, what would a lesson be without technique? In the piano room, students were asked to come up with three technique exercises of their own - complete with a title and description of the skill they hoped to develop by using this exercise. My ownly advise, "Never underestimate the powerful observation skills of a young child." Each team had a beginner, intermediate and advanced student. It was the younger students who are receiving the most focused direction on technique and were invaluable to the creation of these exercises.

4. Creative Exercise: At the island, in the kitchen, students were asked to come up with a drawing, story or journal of one of the composers we have studied. Interestingly, many students chose the "pointillistic" technique of Claude Monet to create some lovely pictures.

We were treated to an original composition by Matthew. His piece fit very well with our Romantic Era theme (no key signature, repeated notes in the left hand, BRAVURA style :0) I was pleased to see the younger students quite enthralled with the idea of creating their own compositions. Thank you for sharing your talent with us, Matthew.

I must also mention a highlight of the morning. Master Jacob, my 5 year old student, came up with the answer to the first question of the day: "Name an important composer of the Baroque Era . . . anyone? . . . anyone? . . . ." And out came the reply, "Johann Sebastian Bach!" WELL DONE, JACOB!

I look forward to seeing you all at your lessons! Have a great week! :0)

The Classical Era Continues ...

2006-10-02T16:14:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to all of you who guessed the name of the composer in the last entry! It was Ludwig Van Beethoven. ! One of his most well-known pieces is "Fur Elise". He and many other composers during this time also created a new kind of piece called the "Sonata" or "Sonatina".

A "Sonata" is a multi-movement composition for solo instrument with or without a piano accompaniment. PHEW! A "Sonatina" is just a shorter version of the same. This was an important innovation during this time (late 1700's to around 1850). An easy way to remember the Classical Era is to think about the SONATA definition - "for solo instrument". Many compositions during era began to be created for a "virtuoso" performer (someone who excelled in the playing of their instrument) while any other part would be considered accompaniment only. (Remember: during the Baroque Era, music was written in CONTRAPUNTAL style with each part being equally important :0)

Also, during the Classical Era, the piano began to evolve into the kind of piano we see more of today. There was the development of the damper pedal and more octaves too! We hear the "ALBERTI BASS" being introduced as well! TELL ME OR SHOW ME WHAT THE "ALBERTI BASS" IS AND YOU CAN CHOOSE A PRIZE FROM THE PRIZE BASKET! :0) Hint: Check out the left hand on the sheet music above ...

Back to the Sonata Form . . . it is pretty easy to identify a Sonata when you know the formula that is used to compose one . . . Here are the names and explanations of the smaller "Sonatina" type of piece (which would be found in the FIRST MOVEMENT of the Sonata):
1. EXPOSITION: the 'exposing' of the subject matter. It's the introduction for the main melodic theme for the piece.
2. DEVELOPMENT: the free treatment of any or all of the thematic material. This is when the composer gets to 'run-away' with his/her music! Enjoy! :0) Remember, however - the key signature must remain related to the initial theme (usually written in the DOMINANT KEY: the 5th note of the scale)
3. RECAPITULATION: Big word - easy to understand ... to "Re-Cap" the thematic material. Now we hear the first theme (from the Exposition) returning and being re-stated.

Check out the Sonatina in G major by Beethoven. Which element of the Sonatina Form does this excerpt represent? Have fun and we'll see you all at lessons!

The Classical Era

2006-09-20T19:19:00.000-06:00

If you can guess who this portrait is of - you can pick a prize out of the prize basket! (Congratulations to Emily and Breighanne for choosing the word ORNAMENT for the Baroque Era quiz).

Following the Baroque Era, instrumental music began to receive more attention than vocal music. The Overture, Divertimento, chamber music (like trios, quartets, etc.) began to emerge. The formal minuet gave way to the romantic WALTZ. There was much rebellion, patriotism and individualism found in the art of the day.

The period dates from the late 1700's to early 1800s. Here we see the elegant, polished and tuneful beginnings of the SONATA form. Johann Sebastian Bach's son, CARL PHILIP EMANUEL BACH was the first to experiment with Sonata-Allegro form. The Classical movement provides opportunity to focus on TONAL BALANCE, STEADY TEMPO, ATTENTION TO PHRASE MARKS, STACCATOS, RESTS, DYNAMICS, ACCURATE TIME VALUES and SPEEDY SCALE PASSAGES.

One of the most famous composers of this era was LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. He was born in 1770 in Bonn, Germany and died in 1827. He was famously deaf, yet brilliantly composed hundreds of well-known pieces. It is well known that Beethoven would cut the legs off of his piano and lie down on the floor to feel the vibrations while he composed.

When memorizing a piece from this era, it is important to use our AURAL skills (like the recognition of intervals and chords), ANALYTICAL skills (like our knowledge of theory; specifically key signatures and scale runs) and TACTILE skills (fingering, fingering, fingering! :0)

Other famous composers of this time were; Wofgang Amadeus M
ozart, Franz Schubert, Felix Mendelssohn and Frederic Chopin.

I have found a couple of great links for Ludwig Van Beethoven. He has an amazing life-story. It's worth a read. The second link includes Audio (midi) to listen to his work. (INCLUDING THE VARIATIONS FOR PIANO OF THE DUET BY PAISIELLO! :0)
http://www.raptusassociation.org/beet-biopages.html
http://www.lvbeethoven.com/
http://its.caltech.edu/~tan/BeethovenMissaSolemnis/missa_solemnis.html

Johann Sebastian Bach

2006-09-11T20:47:00.000-06:00

Johann Sebastian Bach is one of the most famous composers of all time - and especially of the Baroque era. He was born in 1685 in Eisenach, Germany. There were over 400 members in the Bach family and at least 60 of whom were musicians.

Johann Sebastian's parents died when he was young - at and 10 years of age, he went to live with his older brother, Christoph and his family. Although, Johann was very talented at his young age, his older brother did not want him to attempt more difficult music before he had perfected simple concepts. So, Christoph would lock up his more difficult pieces in a special cabinet. This did not stop young Johann. At night, he would sneak into his brother's study and take the book of pieces up to his room and copy the music for himself. He did this by the light of the moon! When his brother discovered what he had been doing, he destroyed Johann's copies. But, it made no difference! Johann Sebastian Bach already new every composition by heart!

J.S. Bach (as he is sometimes referred to) grew up and was married. His first wife died, leaving him to raise his young children on his own. He soon married Anna Magdalena. She helped Bach to transcribe many of his pieces. Together, they had 13 children! Johann Sebastian even compiled a book of his pieces and dedicated it to her. It was called, "Notenbuchlein fur Anna Magdalena" (which means "Notebook for Anna Magdalena").

Johann worked for the Duke of Saxe-Weimar as well as Prince Leopold. He worked as an organist for a variety of schools and churches, was a chamber musician, court organist as well as music director of the city of Leipzig. He composed for many instruments. Amazingly, Bach composed his music while working full time!

Here is a picture of Johann Sebastian Bach with some of his children. As well, I've included a link to the "Internet Public Library" sight that tells a more complete story of Bach's life and includes AUDIO CLIPS so that you can listen to some of his work! Enjoy!

www.ipl.org/div/mushist/bar/bach.htm

Welcome to our MUSIC LESSON BLOG!

2006-09-07T18:59:00.000-06:00

Greetings and welcome to our new Music Lesson Blog! I'm so excited to be able to keep in touch with all of my students in this way . . . what an amazing and wonderful world we live in!

I will be using this site to assist and supplement my teaching on a weekly basis. You'll find riddles, musical history trivia, helpful hints and other interesting facts to enhance your musical experience! :) If you'd like to leave questions or comments, please feel free to click on the "comment tag" and I will email you back, as required, as soon as I can . . .

This week I will be focusing on the "Baroque Era" and "Chording". Let's take a closer look, shall we?

Did you know:
-the term "Baroque" is borrowed from the kinds of architecture that was created hundreds of years ago (from about 1600 to 1750). Many beautiful palaces, castles and cathedrals were built during this time and were "ornately" decorated . . .that means that you would see elaborately adorned buildings with carvings and gold plated domes. Does the word "ornate" sound familiar? If you can think of a word that we use in piano that sounds close to "ornate" you can pick a prize out of the Prize Basket! You can use your Music Dictionaries (if you have one)

Did you know:
-music during this era was written with "tonality" - that means that for the first time, we hear music with a KEY SIGNATURE! Do you remember where we see Key Signatures? Here's a hint . . .they're part of your technique and usually are counted in octaves . . . Can you guess? That's right! We see Key Signatures in SCALES! That brings us to our next item for discussion . . .

CHORDS: chords are tones that are sounded at the same time. Pieces during the Baroque era would have had "broken" or "rolling" chords because the harpsichord and early piano could not sustain sound (that means: no LONG sounds). Many of you will have played chords in your technique. Can you think of when? Here's a hint . . . think "three sounds played together at the same time" . . .got it? That's right! a TRIAD is a kind of chord! Once you know the key signature of a piece it is pretty easy to find TONIC CHORDS hidden throughout (A "Tonic Chord" is a triad built on the first note of the scale). You'll usually find TONIC CHORDS at the very beginning and at the very end of a piece.

Here's a simple little exercise for identifying chords . . . choose a scale (preferrably using a key signature from one of your pieces). Now make a triad using the first note of the scale (remember: that's called the TONIC). Now, can you make a triad starting on the fourth note of the scale? (Don't forget your key signature!) How about starting on the fifth note of the scale? Great! If you're struggling - make sure you're playing intervals of a THIRD(Triad=tri=three). Find as many CHORDS as you can in a piece that you've been assigned this week and you can pick a prize out of the prize basket!

For more advanced students . . . let's take it one step further, ok? Now that you've found triads built on the first, fourth and fifth notes of your scale (they should all be MAJOR TRIADS) - try and identify the inversions of these triads. (Remember when you do your technique, how you have to do all the inversions of the triad for one or more octaves?)

Well - I hope this has been helpful. HAVE FUN! And enjoy your music this week! :0)