pianist, teacher – lessons, recitals, performance

New Student

Welcome to new student Andreas Shaefer, age 7, to the studio.

Summer Recital June 26

Registration deadline: May 15
see April newsletter for details

Piano Journal

Adalee's Piano Journal page 1

Adalee's Piano Journal page 2

Adalee's Piano Journal page 3

Recently I was very impressed by a new student, Adalee Koshiol (6th grade), when she showed me her Piano Journal. I had mentioned to her that she should write down the things we do and talk about in her lessons as soon as she gets home, while they are still fresh in her mind. The next week she came to her lesson and showed me these pages.

I am inspired by how detailed her notes are. She tried to put into her own words what I had explained to her in her lesson. I myself kept a piano journal when I was a student. I hope this inspires all students to do the same.

Temecula Music Festival

Shania Jin

Shania, age 4, played at the Temecula Music Festival on April 24. You can hear a recording of her pieces on the studio Facebook page. She received a certificate and will get an evaluation report from the judge. She had a great time! Shania began lessons in October 2009.

update:

Shania got a “Double Gold” – both her pieces received Superior Rating (29 points out of 30). Judge’s comments: “Great Warmth of Tone. Wonderful dynamics and balance between the hands – that isn’t easy to do! Occasionally your rhythm isn’t quite steady, and rushes a little ahead. Superb use of arm and wrist. Excellent foundation for the future. You can achieve a lot in the years ahead!”

National Piano Guild Auditions

This will  be held from June 4-6. Specific times for individual students are yet to be notified. The following students are participating this year:

Caleb Patrick, Riley Wright, Aubrey Mitschang, Catherine Howard, Katie Ocampo, Olivia Melton, Ameerah Wells, Meijke Balay-Mickelson

All programs must be memorized. Parents, please ensure students are doing extra practice at home.

Buying a Piano

If you are looking at purchasing a used piano, Yiyi can give advise on brand and if the asking price is fair for the age and condition of the piano, based on pictures and verbal description. If you need an onsite appraisal, Yiyi can recommend a registered piano technician. If you are looking at purchasing a new piano, Yiyi can recommend a shop and give suggestions in regards to brand and what is best for your price range. Many shops offer affordable rental options also. Perhaps in the summer we will organize a studio trip to one of the shops!

Summer Break

June: Yiyi will be teaching in week 1 and will not be available to teach for the rest of June. Our recital date remains June 26. For July and August, If you are planning to be away, please notify the studio. You may adjust your tuition for these three months accordingly. If you would like extra lessons before Yiyi goes away (particularly if you want to play in our recital), we can schedule double lessons in May. Please contact Yiyi if you have any concerns or questions.

Group Class

Remember to sign up for monthly group class when you come to your lesson. Dates and times are posted at the studio.