My Informal ‘Music Party’
Found in: Recitals & Events, Studio Management
Yvonne O., Australia
I had my first recital yesterday. Well, more of a music party than a recital, as I only have 8 students. I wanted to provide an informal arena for them to show off their prowess on the piano without any pressure.
They each invited 2 guests (plus a couple of extras) and came to my Mums’ house (where I teach) for lots of delicious afternoon tea, but they had to play to get fed!. The parents had to sing for their supper! Each child had prepared 2 songs and as I called their names they got up to play. Afterwards they were free to play together as they pleased. And many did.
A couple of surprises for me- one 7yr old boy who can be reluctant and embarrassed in class sat down, announced his song (loudly) and played (strongly). My 10 yr old girl (the one I spoke to you about) had butterflies and played with less confidence than I expected, considering that she plays often at her school, but she was happy to play more later. She has almost learnt the 1st half of Fur Elise (the unsimplified one) and my daughter has learnt the 2nd half so they played 1/2 each (with a well co-ordinated ‘bottom swap’ on the bench in the middle).
We almost had an impromtu duet of Fluff Pie because Brendon (who had chosen this to play) sprained his wrist, so we called for a volunteer to be the other hand. Not very successful but we had a laugh and I assured the parents that when the right hand knows what the left hand is doing it sounds great! And one parent brought along her alto recorder and played Ode to Joy with her son. It sounded great and gave me the opportunity to encourage the parents to dust off their old instruments at home and play with their kids.
All in all everyone went home happy (with a lolly (candy) bag, as you should from a party!) and we all got the chance to tell them how great they were.
Original discussion started March 11, 2002