CYM Recitals Bring Joy

Whether performing newly learned material or playing pieces they have known for over a decade, CYM students truly reveled in the rapt attention of their audiences during three separate recitals over the last few months. They played violin, cello, piano, and guitar. They said, “I want to do that again!”, “We sounded so good!”, “I love that song she played. I want to learn it too!”, and “I messed up but kept going – the way my teacher told me to. No, I don’t feel good about it right now. I’ll try again though. I’ll be ok.” During CYM’s presentation before a PSO concert, a patron pulled their companion closer saying, “Look – they’re just KIDS!” Yes, kids. Young musicians of all ages who accumulate good habits and uplift listeners regularly.

Each teacher reminded us of the exceptional whole we are a part of, and that the good of an individual’s work in music is magnified when we unite to demonstrate results. At the February Recital, Maria Gracielle Constantine showed young students how to notice the strong qualities of a peer’s performance; they practiced active listening and appropriately affirmed the efforts of music friends. Christopher Sforza led a rehearsal for students who had not performed much since before COVID; he made sure they felt confident before transitioning to the high-profile venue of the Heinz Hall Lobby. Mark Marston taught his guitar students to play long pieces from memory; he organized the 90 minute April Recital and presented CYM’s awards and graduation plaque to highlight student achievement. Erich Riebe, Rochelle Agnew, Leah Givelber, Grace Burns, and Ryan Ash, carefully prepared their students for performance; they volunteered time to attend and accompany during the concerts. Thank you all for guiding the development of these young musicians with high expectations; your well earned talent and beautiful tone shines through them.

CYM extends special congratulations to the families of students making significant impact with their music education: Sonia Sarpal, who completed the 200 Day Practice Challenge, Daniel Yuo, who earned the Good Citizen’s Award, Caroline Yuo, who completed Suzuki Violin Book Three, and Kathryn Allen, who received recognition for 16+ years of study at the school and graduates this year. Here are some pictures from the happy events!