by Alyssa Cowell, The Catoctin School of Music Folklore Village is a folk craft school near Dodgeville, WI that offers a variety of classes covering many art mediums. The “Build a Small Harp in a Weekend” course gave me an opportunity to learn some hand carving skills while building a small medieval harp whose design is based on a depiction of a harp dated from the...
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by Jamey Mann, Catoctin School of Music Something that frustrates me as a teacher is the excuse “I’m sooooo busy”. Which to me does not change the fact that you did not practice, you made no progress, and the student is getting frustrated by lack of progress. This is a trend that I’ve noticed getting worse and it may be true that you’re busy. However, it...
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by Alyssa Cowell, Catoctin School of Music As the school year ends and the recital season draws closer, it’s a good time to review some performance etiquette practices! You’ve practiced diligently to memorize your piece, you’ve signed up for a time slot, and you’ve had your dress rehearsal with your accompanist. It’s time to perform in recital! If you’re like most recital participants, you’re feeling a little...
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By Alyssa Cowell, Catoctin School of Music We are quickly approaching the end of 2023! While many dismiss the idea of New Year’s resolutions, the beginning of a new year is an opportunity to reassess habits and personal goals, including the aspiring musician’s progress on their way to musical excellence. As the year winds down, it’s a great time to reflect on your musical progress and...
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by Jamey Mann Catoctin School of Music One of the most difficult techniques new guitar students face is the dreaded bar chord. A bar is when a guitarist uses one finger to hold down 2 or more strings. Unfortunately, this technique is often made more difficult than it has to be. If a student is not made aware of body mechanics, how a guitar is supposed to...
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