Summer Lessons

It appears that the road construction has migrated away from Donegal Centre on 57th street, but I have noticed some construction along Louise and I-229.  For me, it has become a habit to take the exit at Western and travel down 57th, bypassing the terrible traffic near I-229 and Louise.

Summer Lessons are now underway and some students have taken a few lessons while others have yet to start.  Summer is a time where the curriculum is open.  Often times I ask students and families what they would like to study.  Some students opt to continue along the current curriculum, while others like to learn popular songs.  The South Dakota Music Teacher's Association will be holding its conference in Spearfish this Fall along with competitions open to ages 10 and up; summer is a great time to begin those competition pieces.  I have also had a few students request more music theory and sight reading.  The student of the month award goes to the student who not only requested more music theory, but also texted a music theory question to me on a Friday evening of a holiday weekend!  Whoa!  That is dedication! 

The question...
What is the difference between a chromatic half step and a diatonic half step? 

Answer:
A chromatic half step is a half step that does not change its key name - C to C#, B to Bb, E to E#. 
A diatonic half step is a half step that does change its key name - C to Db, B to A#, or E to F.   

If you have a preference concerning summer lesson curriculum, please let me know soon so that I may plan lessons accordingly.  Have a great summer!

Our Recital is this Saturday!!!

Recital Information

1. The Recital will be Saturday May 12 at 3:30 at in the Chapel at Dow Rummel.
2.  Please arrive at least 15 minutes early. Please be respectful to all families and performers and plan on staying for the entire recital. Students may sit with their families. Please make sure the students sit near an aisle so that they may be able to get to the piano quickly.
3. If you would like to bring cookies, please email me how many you would like to bring.

For the students: 

Try to run through your recital piece(s) everyday this week.

1. BRING YOUR MUSIC. Even though you may have had your piece memorized for weeks, a fluke in your memory may occur and you may need your music. When you are performing from memory, set the music (closed) on the side of the piano. You do not need to have your music open on the music stand if it is memorized.
2. Before performing, adjust the piano bench so that it is in the best place for you (not too close and not too far away). If your piece uses the pedal, you will want to find the pedal before you begin.
3.  Before you play take a moment to calm your nerves and think about your first few measures. If you are playing a duet check to make sure the other performer is ready to begin.
4.  Do your best!
5. End your piece gracefully. Do not stand up when you are still holding notes. Do not take your hands off the keys until the sound is done (especially when using pedal).
6. When you are finished, SMILE and acknowledge your audience’s applause with a bow. Then return to your seat.