Grooming Successful Students: Insights from the Happy Music Festival 2023 Workshop
Grooming Successful Students
Introduction
Recently, I had the honor of being invited as the chief violin judge at the Happy Music Festival 2023. As part of this event, I conducted a workshop on the topic of grooming successful students. In this blog post, I will share some key insights and discussions from the workshop, focusing on important factors such as talent vs. hard work, getting a good instrument, finding a good teacher, and the significance of practice and inspiration.
1. Talent Vs. Hard Work: Which is More Important?
During the workshop, I posed the question to the audience: "Talent vs. hard work, which is more important?" Though this may sound like a trick question and many members of the audience picked either one, the correct consensus was that both are crucial. While talent provides a natural inclination towards music for a child to thrive, hard work is essential for sustaining and honing that talent. Without hard work, even the most gifted individuals may struggle to reach their full potential.
2. Acquiring a High-Quality Instrument
During our discussion, we explored the important factors to consider when acquiring a good instrument. We examined budget considerations in relation to your specific needs and skill level. At Belcanto Violins, our most basic model BV1 Gloss is made of low density real maple wood not like some counterparts who use plywood at this price range. Though the price point is only about $100USD, we have handmade the whole instrument. Hence, we ensure that even the most basic violin, if your needs are at this level, will achieve a very good result if you had to use it for a performance or an examination. Many of our students have lasted to way past the intermediate levels of learning with this basic model with great results.
While assessing the quality of wood during a purchase may be challenging, there are ways to determine if the instrument meets your requirements. By listening and testing the violin in the higher registers, you can gauge if it possesses the necessary smooth tonal qualities, particularly crucial for advanced players.
I also provided insights into our workshop's team of skilled makers and their expertise in pricing and wood quality across our wide range of instruments as compared to many other music shops which may source their violins from multiple suppliers. This ensures consistency in our product range. Furthermore, we delved into the significant impact that the setup of the violin itself can have on the overall playing experience. Factors such as bridge height, string height, and tailpiece can greatly influence the sound and playability of the instrument. It is essential to find a violin that has been properly set up by a professional to ensure optimal performance.
Additionally, we emphasized the importance of trying out multiple instruments before making a decision. Each violin has its own unique sound and feel, and it is crucial to find one that resonates with you and suits your playing style, to find your own true musical voice.
Lastly, we discussed the significance of maintenance and care for your instrument. Regular cleaning, string changes, and adjustments are necessary to keep your violin in top condition. Developing good habits early on will ensure the longevity and performance of your instrument.
In conclusion, acquiring a high-quality instrument is vital for your musical journey. It can greatly enhance your playing experience and enable you to reach your full potential as a musician. By considering factors such as budget, wood quality, setup, and maintenance, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect instrument for your needs.
3. Finding a Good Teacher and the Role of the Parent
The role of a good teacher in grooming successful students cannot be overstated. We discussed the importance of a teacher who can correct posture, facilitate progress in terms of grading, and provide a well-rounded learning experience. It was emphasized that being fast-paced is not always necessary, and the frequency and quality of lessons matter more. We also touched upon the significance of curriculum and syllabus, including the renowned Suzuki violin method.
At our studio, i’ve had the privilege in nurturing some really young kids to each win a dozen or more competitions worldwide yearly. However, it cannot be overstated that parents would play a vital role in also nurturing the child; they have the responsibility in the first place to secure a teacher that is able to challenge their child musically. At any age under 16, the child needs much encouragement to be reminded to practise and some very young ones under the age of 9 may even need parents to be involved in their direct learning and practise.
4. Practice Vs. Playing
In this segment, we highlighted the distinction between practicing and simply playing the instrument. It was emphasized that practicing effectively is crucial for improvement. I encouraged the participants to have regular meetings with themselves, setting goals and evaluating their progress. We also had some live demonstrations in our masterclass segments where i helped to trouble shoot areas of weaknesses within the pieces and strengths that they could be more aware to convey more intentionally. We also discussed the importance of seeking inspiration and motivation through watching concerts, exploring YouTube videos, and actively performing in front of an audience. The audience also shared their own ways of staying inspired, including taking breaks and exploring different genres of performance to avoid burnout.
In conclusion, grooming successful students in the realm of music requires a holistic approach. It involves nurturing both talent and hard work, acquiring a good instrument, finding a skilled teacher, and maintaining a disciplined practice routine. Additionally, seeking inspiration and staying motivated are vital for long-term growth. I hope that the insights I have shared during the Happy Music Festival 2023 workshop has shed light on these important aspects, providing valuable guidance for aspiring musicians and educators alike.
Remember, success in music is not solely determined by talent or hard work alone, but rather by the harmonious combination of both, along with the right resources and a passion for continuous improvement.