But alas, we are here to work and work we do. I had six hours of teaching today including four hours of masterclasses, one duet class and one repertoire class. Then the honors recital. Then a faculty dinner to honor two of the esteemed faculty. I have 29 kids ages 8-14 in Suzuki Books 2-5. I have seen many kids from Texas institutes and some from the Twin Cities. That was cool.
When I talked to Mary on the phone this afternoon, she wanted to know the names and ages of all the kids I am teaching. "What are they playing, Mama?" She wishes she were here to make friends with all of them. That is a great part of these institutes.
The students are all very well prepared and anxious to learn--what a pleasure. The piano faculty has been so welcoming, there is a very nice vibe here--we are all on the same team and I truly appreciate that. I am the rookie here and I am fine with that. My roommate actually walked me to the location of my afternoon classes--no small favor as it was uphill all the way and we were gasping for air in this altitude. Then she had to walk back down. . . but I didn't get lost and waste any time.
A couple of my focuses today were getting down to the bottom of the key for a beautiful sound, and looking for clues in the pieces--to make decisions about phrasing. Also many kids worked on sparkly leggiero scales--using the combination of active fingertips and relaxed arm weight. Pluck and drop. Try saying that several times in a row.
If you have never been to an institute, you are really missing out. What an awesome thing to have time with your family and learn music at the same time.
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