By Drew Holcomb Navy Seal training is considered some of the toughest military training in the world. With such high dropout rates, the Navy decided to find out what makes a successful candidate. What neurologists found is that it’s not always those who are physically strong, but more importantly those who are also mentally strong as well. To improve the candidate’s success, neurologists created the “Four...
Read MoreWritten by Sarah Haughton I’m in the process of training for a half-marathon. During the final days leading up to the race, part of my training includes what I like to call “race simulation”. Simulation allows you to practice enduring fatigue, maintaining form, and regulating your body chemistry. All of these elements find their equivalents in performance preparation. The goal in race and performance simulation is not to...
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One of the things I love about being in a local music teachers association is the access to different events for students at my studio. Whether it’s a master class or a workshop, students are provided with lots of opportunities, thanks to the ideas, work and expertise of colleagues in my profession.
Several times a year, our group rents the recital hall at our university and hosts collaborative recitals. Students have opportunity to play on an absolutely incredible Steinway piano in a fabulous venue, a unique treat for them and their families.
Are you a member of a local teaching association, or do you have colleagues with whom you might consider hosting such a recital? Here’s why I think collaborative recitals are so great:
Spring in my studio means that it’s time for my local association’s annual Spring Festival, an event we hold for teachers and students. We bring in a local/regional teacher at the university level who conducts teacher workshops, and also holds masterclasses for our students.
Even though the majority of my students have only had 2-3 years of piano (I teach group classes and move students to private teachers once they reach the intermediate level), I strongly encourage even my beginning students to participate in these classes. While the name itself — “masterclass” — and the idea of playing for another teacher can be intimidating, there are many benefits to be gained:
Each December, I like for my students to participate in some type of performance for charity. This year, we held our second annual “Piano Play-a-thon“, where students put together a program of up to five minutes, solicited sponsors to donate money to a local organization, and performed their pieces at a casual recital. This year, we raised almost $1,000 for a local non-profit who provides in-home services for families of children with special needs and had the chance to perform at a fantastic coffee shop. I love being able to rally some community support and bring attention to one of the many fantastic charities and the work they are doing in our area.
I think there are so many ways that we can use our studios to give back to our communities. Not only is performing a great way to motivate students to work hard, but charity events teach them the ways they can use their gifts to serve others. As a bonus, you’ll also be reaching members of your community with your studio’s name and services!