Allegretto 2 Endings

A group class activity helps students recognize the differences in the endings in Allegretto 2 and is a good introduction to form.

Summer Updates and Learning Harmony

Newest Pictures from FaithSlaker Music Studio

Performers in the Summer Studio Recital, June, 2016.

Newest Videos from FaithSlaker Music Studio

Harmonic Change Practice for Suzuki Book 1 Kids, August, 2017

Getting Ready for a Performance

Suzuki Book Graduation Recital, Anyone?  As there are several of my students coming up on this momentous event, I thought I'd share with you the performance descriptors as set up by the Suzuki Association of the Americas so you know exactly what it is that I am looking for in a graduation performance:

SAA Performance Descriptors

For use in Evaluation of Teacher and Student Performances

1. Repertoire
• Technical and interpretive demands of the selection(s) are commensurate with performer’s technical and musical abilities.

2.   Physical aspects:

*    Demonstrates balanced, erect posture.

*    Demonstrates ease of movement, efficient motion (e.g., no unnecessary tension evident).

*    Appears physically comfortable.

3.  Tone production

*    Tone is pleasing, resonant and full.

*    Tone varies when appropriate.

*    Volume is even but varies when appropriate.

4.  Technical accuracy

*    Plays correct notes.

*    Intonation is accurate.

*    Tempo is appropriate.

*    Musical pulse is steady, yet varies when appropriate (e.g., rubato, ritard).

*    Rhythm is accurate and precise.

5.  Musicianship

*    Dynamics are varied to create expressive effect.

*    Notes are articulated appropriately and consistently.

*    Creates motion in melodic line (phrase shape, rise and fall).

*    Phrases end gracefully (e.g., tapered dynamics, ending notes sustained).

*    Performance is consistent with (within the bounds of) stylistic convention.

*    Interpretive choices are consistent.

*    Performance conveys the character of the piece (e.g., march is march-like).

*    Performance demonstrates voicing of melodic lines and accompaniment.

6.  Stage presence

*    Demonstrates appropriate poise and bearing.

*    Acknowledges fellow performers (if applicable).

*    In the event of error, continues without pause.

*    Bows when appropriate.

7.  Focus of attention

*    Performance conveys sense of concentration.

*    Performance conveys sense of confidence (little hesitation or timidity evident).