Performance Opportunities
Importance
Performance opportunities provide students with a goal. They are an important part of the learning process.
Video Recordings
Most people now own a phone with the ability to record video. As a result, I have removed recitals and other performance opportunities and now have all students record a mock live performance of themselves.
The video is then discussed during the student’s lesson. Rather than just remembering the performance, video allows students to see and discuss how preparation influenced their performance.
A mock live performance means that the student is to only have one opportunity to record themselves. The video should be in a raw format and not be edited.
Please do not send me video. The video should be brought to the lesson on a device owned by the student or the student’s family.
Scheduling
By changing to a format where students record video of themselves in place of other performance opportunities, it allows students to have as many or few performance opportunities as they wish.
Expectations for Students
Students should plan to participate in two (2) performance opportunities each year. Any student who wishes to participate in more than two (2) performance opportunities may do so if they are well-prepared.
Performance opportunities will be assigned to students if they have not participated in two (2) performance opportunities and the student is available at the scheduled time.
Piano students may be asked to memorize their music.
Violin and viola students may be asked to memorize music.
Students should start using the following practice strategies two (2) weeks before a performance opportunity:
Play your piece at least once a day without stopping.
Have someone distract you while you perform your piece. Your goal is to not stop playing until you’ve finished the piece. This helps prepare you for possible distractions during performance.
Ask family or friends to be a practice audience. Practice announcing your piece and performing.
Perform your piece in the same clothing you plan to wear for the performance. This clothing should be nicer than your everyday clothes.
Record your performance on the date you chose. This is a mock live performance so you only have one chance to record.