Hello Studio Families!
I hope you are all doing well! We had a wonderful Summer Break since Amanda and her family were able to visit. I finally got to meet my very first granddaughter, Anya! Here is a picture of all of us on the 4th of July.
As a music studio, we have been doing a great job learning Music Theory and Scales and Arpeggios, especially as many of us continue distant learning. There are a few books that I would like to suggest everyone get if you are at the end of Book 1 or in Book 2 or above (about 5th grade or above in school). One is a music theory book called Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory This book will teach everyone important rules and theories of music as they go beyond beginner and get into more advanced levels.
Also, I always start out teaching scales, arpeggios and chords as part of our warm-ups. I think it is great ear training to learn them by rote. But as students learn the three minor scales of each key signature and need to know all the chords involved in each key things get a little more complicated learning it by rote. So another great book to have as a reference is The Complete Book of Scales, Chords, Arpeggios and Cadences. This one is for piano students but it is good knowledge for all instruments.
Some other book ideas for when we need a change from the main book:
Let me know if you find any other interesting books!
Recitals: Students have begun asking me when the next recital will be. I have decided to continue with Zoom Recitals at this time. I don't know when the Retirement Homes will be ready for us again. I have looked into renting out the park across the street from my house. Would anyone be interested in doing a recital in the park? Does anyone have any other ideas? I'd love to do an outdoor recital if anyone has any ideas of a large enough place for us! I'm open to suggestions so let me know what you think!
For now we will plan on these dates for Zoom Recitals and I will let you know if anything changes.
Saturday, August 21, 11 am
Saturday, September 18, 11 am
Saturday October 30, 11 am
Saturday, December 11, 11 am
Winter Break : December 20-31, Lessons will resume January 3.
Thank you all for being such great families, dedicated to your students' education. I appreciate all of you!
Sincerely,
Ms. Tonya
