Sunday, April 5, 2020

April Announcements

Welcome to April. Wow what a year. Here are several recaps, updates, and announcements.

Lessons are being held remotely for the time being. Once things get back to normal, I'll let you know when we're ready to move back to lessons in my classroom. I can't wait for that day. =)
Here are some things you can do to help to make these lessons successful.
1. Set up the camera off the piano. If you don't have a tripod, try setting it up on an end table on books. It is best for me if the camera is at a side shot of the piano. This shot is preferred.
Online Piano Lessons: comparing FaceTime, Skype, and Hangouts ...

2. Have all your books, flashcards, and a pencil ready at the piano before the lesson starts.
3. Keep a quiet atmosphere in the room. I know. We're all at home with the kids. But for that lesson time, you can help me by reducing noise.
4. Students will need to fill out their assignment sheets.

Spring Recital
I have no answer right now. If we can have one, I'd love to of course. But I just don't know. I'll update you when I do know.

Student Day
Our state is moving forward with Student Day, however it will be through video submission.

Written Theory Tests: It is expected that the student would take this test without any help beyond clarifying instructions.

Aural Theory Tests: A link to a video will be provided to teachers. This can be shared with students. It is expected that the student would take this test the first time they watch the video, would only watch the video once, and would not have access to a keyboard or other helps while taking the test.

Playing Audition:
1. The student should clearly state their name and the level they are entering at the beginning of the video. DO NOT HAVE THEM SAY THE TEACHER’S NAME 2. The audition must be one continuous video.
2. Technical skills should be completed first. You will receive a list of which 10 skills to complete on the video. A parent or teacher may assist with this portion by reading the questions for students in lower levels.
3. The student should state the name of each piece before playing.
4. The camera should be focused on the student and instrument throughout the audition. For pieces that require memory, the camera should clearly show the student is not using music. The video does not need to show the musical score at any point during the audition. Accompaniment is not required.

Uploading the Audition:
1. The teacher will be provided with a link to the upload location. This can be shared with students.
2. The file must be named “instrument-level-lastname-firstname”
3. Submitted files will be shared with judges for evaluation and a portion of the video may be cut to be included in an Honors Recital video.

Sonata Contest Recap
Congratulations to the following students for their participation in the PMTA Sonata Contest

Alek Agustin - Honorable Mention
Hadassah Cowart - 1st Place
Jackson Cowart - 3rd Place
Sophia Cowart - 1st Place
Clark Dunham - Participation
Rachel Hedaria - 3rd Place
Reena Lin - 1st Place
Landon Varela - 1st Place
Olivia Varela - 1st Place