Purposefully Polished
How is it that two students surpassed expectations and performed long programs of music even more expressively than previously practiced? They took time every day during the month or more before the recital to settle in with the pieces they had learned by heart and they did not immediately rush to add new literature. Their teacher and parents allowed them space to develop a sense of calm that turned familiarity into refined musical skill.
Congratulations! On April 17, Riya performed Suzuki Guitar Book One and Sara performed Suzuki Guitar Book Three. Parents of both students said how much they appreciated having the chance to do the recital and family who who were watching said how impressed they were with the students level of playing. Riya and Sara agreed with one another, that it felt so good to play so well! and attributed the results to their review plan.
Mark shares, “We did ‘practice’ recitals in each lesson for weeks before the recital. We did inventory each week of what pieces were ready and which needed more attention. Each student is well into learning the notes of the next book by now, and spending this extra time preparing for the recital of the previous book allowed them to understand how much polishing can be done and how it ensured a really positive result.”
Both students were excited to play for their family members, and the audience was rapt. Riya performed without “memory slip” or other obstacle due to nervousness – a change and testament to the thoroughness of her preparation. Mark reports, “It is the best I have heard her play for other people.” Sara also showed tremendous growth in her playing and that made her confident and proud. Sara’s mom presented the 200 Day Practice Challenge Trophy to her daughter at the end of the program – a wonderful surprise!
Riya’s Program: Twinkle Theme & Var D Go Tell Aunt Rhody Song of the Wind May Song Allegretto Perpetual Motion Brother John Fuhrmann Tanz With Steady Hands Meadow Minuet Encore: A Toye
Sara’s Program: Three Renaissance Pieces: Nonesuch, Greensleeves and Packington’s Pound Ghiribizzo & Waltz by Paganini Calliope Coste Etude Celeste y Blanco.
Family members and guests watched from India, Canada, Chicago, and of course the Pittsburgh area. We are really proud of you Riya and Sara!
