January begins

I've had the opportunity to talk to many of my student's parents and I am thrilled to hear that their children are 'playing' the piano. Having access to the keys, hearing them, singing to simple melodies is all great at creating a real love for music. This week pay attention to the left hand as it learns how to walk up the keys, fingers 54321,321. Don't let new concepts frighten you or your child. Remind them of different things they have already learned this year and with each week they will continue to learn with baby steps! If you are concerned that they already know more than you, ask them if you can 'practise' with them. Children love to teach their parents!

Compositions - The first step is to have a motive, now we are learning tricks like repitition. Be sure the motive is 4 beats, and starts on C. (Their song will end on C too.) Some children might feel they're creativity is being stifled but it's kind of like grammar. There are rules in grammar and when you fully understand and accept them you can really push your writing; same with music. By the end of January they will learn 3 tricks and can use these in creating their own song - one that they can play!