It has been a cold start to the term! A reminder that Term 3 will finish on Sep 11 (one week before state schools finish) with Term 4 resuming Monday Oct 3.
Many students are booked for exams that will be scheduled anytime in October so I ask that you please assist your child in setting/maintaining a regular practice routine* throughout this term so that all requirements (pieces, scales, general knowledge, and sight-reading/aural tests) are thoroughly prepared by the end of this term!
* see Rachael's Notes below for recommendations
I have a new email address for all correspondence - [email protected]
Please change this in your email today so that I can keep all emails in the one place.
All future invoices will come from [email protected] - please add this to your Contacts list so you receive these directly into your Inbox.
I have started up my first group keyboard class on Saturdays and have another time available for which I am still taking enquiries. This could be a class for beginners, or for those who have already had up to 3 years previous tuition.
I can also run masterclasses for students already enrolled in private lessons (to work on harmony, ensemble and creative areas specifically), theory classes, or classes for adults - please let any interested friends and family members know about this availability.
Many students are booked for exams that will be scheduled anytime in October so I ask that you please assist your child in setting/maintaining a regular practice routine* throughout this term so that all requirements (pieces, scales, general knowledge, and sight-reading/aural tests) are thoroughly prepared by the end of this term!
* see Rachael's Notes below for recommendations
I have a new email address for all correspondence - [email protected]
Please change this in your email today so that I can keep all emails in the one place.
All future invoices will come from [email protected] - please add this to your Contacts list so you receive these directly into your Inbox.
I have started up my first group keyboard class on Saturdays and have another time available for which I am still taking enquiries. This could be a class for beginners, or for those who have already had up to 3 years previous tuition.
I can also run masterclasses for students already enrolled in private lessons (to work on harmony, ensemble and creative areas specifically), theory classes, or classes for adults - please let any interested friends and family members know about this availability.
CONCERT NEWS: The mid-year concert was a great success with 16 performers. The next concert will be scheduled for the end of Term 4. During Term 3, think about how you can encourage your child to 'practice' performing - in informal scenarios - to help build up their confidence. This may include playing for friends, family members, at a school assembly or soiree, or a masterclass. Positive experiences of performances go a long way towards reducing nerves around formal exams and concerts! | AMEB CORNER: I am pleased to report the following students successfully passed their exams in Term 2 with great results! Congratulations to all involved for their hard work and preparation. Armaan – Grade 3 Leisure (B+) Liam – Grade 3 Leisure (A) Exam Session 5 (3 Oct – 13 Nov) *If you become aware of a clash in the period e.g. camp, scheduled school exam, or excursion, please contact the AMEB immediately as rescheduling fees apply once exams have been scheduled. |
30 PIECE CHALLENGE
30 pieces in one year is the goal I have set my students so it is time to check in on progress! Have you reached at least 10 pieces in the first half of the year? If so, you are on track to reaching the Bronze level of 20 pieces in the year. If you need to add to your list, remember there are many ways to add in extra short pieces from earlier grade books, favourite pop or movie tunes (which can be learnt by ear or by reading), which all count as valuable learning!
30 pieces in one year is the goal I have set my students so it is time to check in on progress! Have you reached at least 10 pieces in the first half of the year? If so, you are on track to reaching the Bronze level of 20 pieces in the year. If you need to add to your list, remember there are many ways to add in extra short pieces from earlier grade books, favourite pop or movie tunes (which can be learnt by ear or by reading), which all count as valuable learning!
RACHAEL’S NOTES As your child progresses, have you considered how much time to dedicate to musical learning each week? As pieces become longer and the technical requirements increase, the amount of time required for daily practice also increases. On average I recommend on 5 days of the week: Preliminary - 20 mins Grade 1 - 25 mins Grade 2 - 30 mins Grade 3 - 40 mins Grade 4 - 50 mins Grade 5 - 60 mins. It is a good idea to split practice time into 15-20 minute chunks to maximise productivity, and remember to include time for theory, sight-reading, and listening to recordings of pieces and other piano works to develop musical style. | CURRENT LISTENING: Did you know that you can access recordings of the AMEB works online in iTunes? Perfect for purchasing single recordings of pieces that you may be learning from alternate books! Search under "AMEB Leisure" and discover even more fun pieces, such as 2 of my favourite ragtime style pieces Jelly Bean Rag, and Ragtime on the Typewriter. All available for just $1.69 per track. |