Recital Affect

Dear Parents,
It was wonderful to see the twinkle students at the recital.  I noticed this week that all of them came in very eager to come to the piano.  This is the power of environment!
It is good to have "recitals" at home too so they can practice taking a bow, playing, bowing in a fun way.  You may enjoy making a video of them doing this. 
The upcoming holiday is an especially good time for them to put on a recital.
At the Christmas party they may be ready to come and take a bow.  Since the party is in the studio it will feel familiar to them and we can practice it each week until the party.

In practice, please continue to focus on the ready position, on each note in twinkle, and at the beginning of each piece, phrase, or spot.  This is where the most essential learning is taking place.  Please make sure that there is no tension in the ready position.  If they are overarching their back, or holding their arm to high it will be difficult for them to hold the position, stay still, or play with good tone.  So, in a balanced position the body can easily become still, and it feels comfortable.  Children do have to develop the ability to find this balance, but please dont have them over exaggerate by holding in a stiff way.
When the body is in balance, the fingers are flexible and can move easily.  By watching carefully you will see when the body is in the right balance and thus be able to help them find it.

By coming to the recital you are able to see how the students posture creates the balance for them to play well. It's good to observe this, but also to keep this in balance with the joy of watching each child come to the piano and play from their heart.

Have a great holiday!
Leah Brammer