My first recital!

[pizno]

I only had 5 kids playing, as one just started 2 weeks ago and couldn't come anyway.  It was fun - though I have a bad cold and felt a little spaced out and, well, nervous.  Even though the kids were the center of attention I felt like I was, but that's OK.  My husband did a great job conversing with the dads.  The kids did GREAT and I'm very proud of them.  I didn't end up doing anything fancy, no awards, no games, just some great families who came tromping through the snow to get here with plates of cookies in hand.  I think everyone had a good time, and it was nice for the kids to see what other kids are playing (and maybe a little inspiration for those who don't practice much?). 

Pizno

[brahms4me]

Thanks for letting us know how it went.  I'm sorry you didn't feel well but its great your husband pitched in.  You know, sometimes it's just nice to get together and socialize.  We get so busy with our teaching and trying to stay on schedule that there isn't time to visit.  I think you provided that opportunity and I'm sure all the students had a terrific time, too.  There will be planty other opportunities for more formal affairs and I'll betcha everyone will be looking forward to it with MUCH anticipation. 

Good for you!  (in spite of the weather conditions)

[pizno]

I got a call from a parent who was here yesterday telling me how absolutely delighted they were in the atmosphere of the event yesterday - and that they found me for a teacher!  That makes me feel great.  I guess they didn't notice that I was feeling kind of out of it!

[keyofc]

Hey Pizno,
That's great news!  I had my first recital a little over a year ago - and understand the nervous feeling.
But it's so true - the attention are on the kids anyway - not so much on us.
Some people are more naturally comfortable standing up in front of others directing events.
What are some of the songs your students played?

[pizno]

The very beginners did some Faber stuff, a little piece called Penguins at Play, and two kids did some Jane Tan music.  Now that it's over, it's nice to be able to sit down with them and reassess what their needs are and where we are going.  One girl is still not reading great.  She got through her little piece because her mom wrote in the fingerings on every note and she faked it.  Yesterday in her lesson I made a big deal about moving her reading up a notch so we could play even more fun pieces.  I had a talk with mom, too.  Another girl I have who started the same week in September is going great guns.  What a difference between attitudes. approaches, and the way they work.

They all did great at the recital, though.  I'm very proud.  And I'm proud of myself, too.  I've come long way in the past several months, as a teacher!

[keyofc]

Faber stuff is a lot of fun for them.
I don't think I know Jane Tan.
Melody Bober has some good stuff too.
I like to keep my ear out for repertoire suitable
for beginners.