Studio Weekly Information
Week of October 8th
Cancellations: No Cancellations at this time
Group Lesson October 15th and 16th: Watch your email for group times and sign up information!
New Year Begins! Welcome Students!
As much as I hate to say goodbye to summer, I do love fall! I'm praying that God graciously gives a nice LONG fall before snowflakes fly.
This year, the blog will be used to remind you of upcoming events, which can also be accessed on the calendar page. Also, I will do my best to post any cancellations. The schedule was very tight this year. No openings at all which would allow a shift for a conflict. So please be especially grace-filled this year as you are asked to do swaps to help accommodate those unavoidable conflicts that arise! Thanks!
This Year's Practice Incentive: Misterioso Mansion!
Though the board is the same as one I used a couple of year's ago, the game is completely different! This summer I wrote a program that is very close to how you play the game of clue. The students this year will have to discover what composer stole an antique instrument and switched it with a reproduction, what instrument is the reproduction, and what room has the composer hidden the instrument, waiting for an opportunity to sneak it out of the mansion and steal! Motivating the students to discover the answers are door prizes that will be awarded at the end of the year. Once students have discovered the solution to the mystery, they will have opportunity to earn getting their names in the drawing more than once by traveling to other locations outside of the mansion! I hope this will be a lot of fun!Cancellations: This is where I'll post any schedule openings. None this week....I think!
Studio Weekly Information
Week of April 16th
There WAS a blizzard! Little did I realize! I am late getting this post out as I was in Denver (where it was 60-75 degrees!) trying to get back to Minneapolis.
Cancellations: None
Week of April 9th
Cancellations: Assuming there are no more blizzards, etc., everything and everybody seems to be on schedule!
Week of April 2nd
Cancellations: There is a Monday morning 8:00 am cancellation (30 minute slot)
Week of March 26th
Spring Break month is almost over. Now we do our final push with piano, which ends in mid May. Most students (except younger ones) have received their music. Please help them stay disciplined in their practice. As the warmth of spring hits, its hard for all of us to stay inside and practice! Just a little bit more please!
Cancellations: There is a Monday morning 8:00 am cancellation and a Tuesday 4:30 pm cancellation. Both of those are 30 minute slots.
February 26th - March 13th
Spring Break! See everyone the week of March 19th!
Mystery Composer Hints: Mystery Name to Unscramble - nitantoocs raracar. This month's Mystery Composer apparently is a tough one, so I'm giving LOTS of hints to help out! Super easy if you follow these clues.
Week of February 19th
This is it! This is a BIG week for students participating in the National Federation of Music Clubs Piano Festival! I'm so proud of each of you! You've worked hard and have put in much effort to be at your peak for this event. For me, this week is all about celebrating your work. I have a fun week ahead listening to beautiful and exciting music!
Group Lessons will be held next week. An email has been sent out and most of you have responded. I'll send an email this week with assigned times. Thank you for your prompt responses! Remember that this replaces your student's normal lessons.
Spring Break will be the weeks of March 5th and March 12th. Therefore next lessons will be the week of March 19th! Almost Easter!
Cancellations: None
Week of February 12th
Cancellations: No cancellations
National Federation Festival: Just TWO weeks left to the Festival. Memorization is important at this point, so please check and encourage them in their memory work.
Week of February 5th
Cancellations: No cancellations
National Federation Festival: Just THREE weeks left to the Festival. I continue to be so happy with the kids!
Cancellations: Last week was a wild ride between weather and illnesses. I'm hopeful that both of these have improved! I have one cancellation on Monday at 4 pm (30 minute slot)
National Federation Festival: Just FOUR weeks left to the Festival. I am pleased with student progress, so keep encouraging them. Especially encourage them in memorizing their pieces. The sooner the better!
Week of January 22nd
There WAS a blizzard! Little did I realize! I am late getting this post out as I was in Denver (where it was 60-75 degrees!) trying to get back to Minneapolis.
Cancellations: None
Italian Intrigue
Photo #4
Cancellations: Assuming there are no more blizzards, etc., everything and everybody seems to be on schedule!
Italian Intrigue
Photo #3
Cancellations: There is a Monday morning 8:00 am cancellation (30 minute slot)
Italian Intrigue
Photo #2
Spring Break month is almost over. Now we do our final push with piano, which ends in mid May. Most students (except younger ones) have received their music. Please help them stay disciplined in their practice. As the warmth of spring hits, its hard for all of us to stay inside and practice! Just a little bit more please!
Cancellations: There is a Monday morning 8:00 am cancellation and a Tuesday 4:30 pm cancellation. Both of those are 30 minute slots.
Italian Intrigue
New and Final City - Photo #1
Spring Break! See everyone the week of March 19th!
Mystery Composer Hints: Mystery Name to Unscramble - nitantoocs raracar. This month's Mystery Composer apparently is a tough one, so I'm giving LOTS of hints to help out! Super easy if you follow these clues.
- He's a pianist from Italy that is currently alive! Not a dead composer.
- He mostly does arrangements of popular songs and has become known mostly because of YouTube
- Look for cover songs of "A Sky Full of Stars" (Coldplay) or "Wherever I Go" (OneRepublic) or "All of Me" (John Legend)
There you go! And the final 2 photos below should make it easy for you to discover the city if you haven't already!
Italian Intrigue
Photo #5 & #6
This is it! This is a BIG week for students participating in the National Federation of Music Clubs Piano Festival! I'm so proud of each of you! You've worked hard and have put in much effort to be at your peak for this event. For me, this week is all about celebrating your work. I have a fun week ahead listening to beautiful and exciting music!
Group Lessons will be held next week. An email has been sent out and most of you have responded. I'll send an email this week with assigned times. Thank you for your prompt responses! Remember that this replaces your student's normal lessons.
Spring Break will be the weeks of March 5th and March 12th. Therefore next lessons will be the week of March 19th! Almost Easter!
Cancellations: None
Italian Intrigue
Photo #4
Week of February 12th
Cancellations: No cancellations
National Federation Festival: Just TWO weeks left to the Festival. Memorization is important at this point, so please check and encourage them in their memory work.
Italian Intrigue
Photo #3
Cancellations: No cancellations
National Federation Festival: Just THREE weeks left to the Festival. I continue to be so happy with the kids!
Italian Intrigue
Photo #2
Good luck!
Week of January 29th 
Cancellations: Last week was a wild ride between weather and illnesses. I'm hopeful that both of these have improved! I have one cancellation on Monday at 4 pm (30 minute slot)
National Federation Festival: Just FOUR weeks left to the Festival. I am pleased with student progress, so keep encouraging them. Especially encourage them in memorizing their pieces. The sooner the better!
Italian Intrigue:
New City This Week
Photo #1
Good luck!
Cancellations: The weather forecast seems to allow for the possibility that tomorrow will be snowy windy day making travel difficult. At this point, I am planning on teaching as scheduled and we'll see how the day progresses before making changes. Should weather make travel dangerous, I will arrange for make up lessons for your kids. Also, there are no known cancellations, but keep checking if you have conflicts. The flu/cold season has hit and I could get last minute changes.
National Federation Festival: Fees for this event were due on the 16th. If you have not paid, please do so this week.
Italian Intrigue:
Photo #5
I'm feeling sorry for students who have not been able to figure out our Mystery Italian City. A few complaints have been voiced, and I have listened! So besides the photo posted on January 9th, I am including an additional photo that should make it easy to figure it out! Here you go!
Welcome Back!
Week of January 8, 2018
New Swap List: There have been a few changes in my schedule, so check your student's binder for the new swap list. There are no cancellations for this coming week. Stay healthy!
National Federation Festival: For those participating in this event, this week will begin the big push/practice leading up to the Festival on February 24th. Some students have already chose their pieces (higher levels), but the rest will be choosing their pieces and begin their practice regiment on these pieces. Please check your student's binder to make sure they are staying on task with their weekly goals. Thank you!
Italian Intrigue:
Photo Clue #4
Two weeks left on this Mystery City. Many students have figured it out and are covert and hiding in Italy! Can you identify this landmark?
Week of December 11th
This will be our last week of piano until January 8th, 2018. Have a wonderful Holiday Season!
Christmas Recital: Wednesday, December 13th, 5:00 - 6:30 pm. Check email for further details
Cancellations: No cancellations at this time.
Week of December 4th
Christmas Recital: The recital is in 2 weeks. More information will be sent via email this week.
Cancellations: No cancellations. Thankful for good health!
Week of November 27th
Here we go.....Christmas season! Love it!
Christmas Recital Duets: This year for the Christmas Recital, each student will be playing a duet with another student in the studio. This means a little extra work to try and get the duet partners together to practice. I tried, as best as I could, to put duet partners together that would have an easier time making extra rehearsals. It is my hope that these partners will practice outside of the studio and then come together to practice with me one time.
Cancellations: No cancellations
Week of November 20th
Week of November 13th
Cancellations: None at this time, but keep checking back.
Italian Intrigue:
Road Hazards brought groans to a few students this week! And I've changed the location of hazards and detours, so I know I will hear more groans this week! Travel Passes have become coveted items. Let students know that they will have opportunity to earn travel passes at Group Lessons. There is hope!
Two more photo clues to arrive at this months city. This week's clue should make it easy to find this month's Italian city. Good luck!
Week of November 6th
Cancellations: None at this time, but keep checking back.
Group Lessons: Group Lesson #2 will happen the week of Thanksgiving, November 20th & 21st. More information will be coming out later.
Italian Intrigue:
So........you have very intelligent children! A couple of students have identified this month's city! They have much more computer savvy than I (of course!) and have found short cuts to discover this month's city. Good for them!
But, of course, I wanted to up the game. So I've introduced "Road Hazards" this week to build more realistic travel for the students. I mean, who hasn't incurred delays because of road construction, flat tires, etc? So this week students will have to work around those problems. A few lucky students have Travel Passes that allow them to "fly" to the city of their choice! They won't be impeded! Ok, this week's photo:
Week of October 30th
Question about Halloween: Halloween falls on Tuesday this year. Many of you have asked about lessons. I will be teaching my normal schedule on Tuesday. I hope all of you can work around that and still enjoy the evening.
Cancellations: I have an opening on Monday at 5:30 pm
Italian Intrigue:
This week we start discovering a new city. So the photo this week is:
This is our final week for this particular Italian city. Did your student discover the answer? It was Naples and our mystery composer was Antonio Vivaldi
Next week we will start another city and there will another mystery musician for them to discover
Cancellations: There is a cancellation on Monday, at 7:00 pm
Week of October 16th
Group Lessons: No regular private lessons this week. If you are unsure of your assigned time for Group Lessons, please email me. See you tomorrow for some fun!
Cancellations: No cancellations
Week of October 9th
Sorry! The photo for this week is delayed because..... our granddaughter was born early Sunday morning! Photo of this added delight to our lives. We've been watching our precious 2 year old Quinn!
So....
Italian Intrigue: Here's this week's clue.........
Week of October 2nd
Cancellations: No cancellations known at this time. However, there is one swap list change. Monday, 4:30 pm slot is now open and the Tuesday 8:00 pm slot is taken.
Italian Intrigue: Here's this week's clue......... There should be action after this clue! Two more clues still left!
Week of September 25th
Cancellations: No cancellations this week. I hope good health continues!
Italian Intrigue: Here's this week's clue.........
Week of September 18th
Christmas Recital: Wednesday, December 13th, 5:00 - 6:30 pm. Check email for further details
Cancellations: No cancellations at this time.
Italian Intrigue:
Photo Clue #3
(This Italian city will be continued into the New Year)
(This Italian city will be continued into the New Year)
Week of December 4th
Christmas Recital: The recital is in 2 weeks. More information will be sent via email this week.
Cancellations: No cancellations. Thankful for good health!
Italian Intrigue:
Photo Clue #2
Christmas Recital Duets: This year for the Christmas Recital, each student will be playing a duet with another student in the studio. This means a little extra work to try and get the duet partners together to practice. I tried, as best as I could, to put duet partners together that would have an easier time making extra rehearsals. It is my hope that these partners will practice outside of the studio and then come together to practice with me one time.
Cancellations: No cancellations
😀Ha! Ha! Kids!
So...you kids (& parents) were so computer savvy, that last month's clue
was discovered in one day! So, I'm trying a new photo challenge. Its a puzzle. There will be
one photo, divided into pieces like a puzzle. Can you discover this Italian City with just this piece? Maybe!
Group Lessons: All should have received an email with an assigned time. No regular lessons will be held this week.
Italian Intrigue:
Here is the final clue for this month's Italian City! Did you figure it out??
Photo Clue #4
Many throng to Juliet's wall, hoping that in love they will fall.
Cancellations: None at this time, but keep checking back.
Italian Intrigue:
Road Hazards brought groans to a few students this week! And I've changed the location of hazards and detours, so I know I will hear more groans this week! Travel Passes have become coveted items. Let students know that they will have opportunity to earn travel passes at Group Lessons. There is hope!
Two more photo clues to arrive at this months city. This week's clue should make it easy to find this month's Italian city. Good luck!
Photo Clue #3
Cancellations: None at this time, but keep checking back.
Group Lessons: Group Lesson #2 will happen the week of Thanksgiving, November 20th & 21st. More information will be coming out later.
Italian Intrigue:
So........you have very intelligent children! A couple of students have identified this month's city! They have much more computer savvy than I (of course!) and have found short cuts to discover this month's city. Good for them!
But, of course, I wanted to up the game. So I've introduced "Road Hazards" this week to build more realistic travel for the students. I mean, who hasn't incurred delays because of road construction, flat tires, etc? So this week students will have to work around those problems. A few lucky students have Travel Passes that allow them to "fly" to the city of their choice! They won't be impeded! Ok, this week's photo:
Photo Clue #2
Week of October 30th
Question about Halloween: Halloween falls on Tuesday this year. Many of you have asked about lessons. I will be teaching my normal schedule on Tuesday. I hope all of you can work around that and still enjoy the evening.
Cancellations: I have an opening on Monday at 5:30 pm
Italian Intrigue:
This week we start discovering a new city. So the photo this week is:
Photo Clue #1
Week of October 23rd
Italian Intrigue:This is our final week for this particular Italian city. Did your student discover the answer? It was Naples and our mystery composer was Antonio Vivaldi
Next week we will start another city and there will another mystery musician for them to discover
Cancellations: There is a cancellation on Monday, at 7:00 pm
Week of October 16th
Group Lessons: No regular private lessons this week. If you are unsure of your assigned time for Group Lessons, please email me. See you tomorrow for some fun!
Cancellations: No cancellations
Photo Clue #5 (and the last one!)
Sorry! The photo for this week is delayed because..... our granddaughter was born early Sunday morning! Photo of this added delight to our lives. We've been watching our precious 2 year old Quinn!
So....
Italian Intrigue: Here's this week's clue.........
Photo Clue #4
Cancellations: One opening has occurred for tonight (Monday)....5:30 pm slot, 30 minute lesson.
Cancellations: No cancellations known at this time. However, there is one swap list change. Monday, 4:30 pm slot is now open and the Tuesday 8:00 pm slot is taken.
Italian Intrigue: Here's this week's clue......... There should be action after this clue! Two more clues still left!
Photo Clue #3
Cancellations: No cancellations this week. I hope good health continues!
Italian Intrigue: Here's this week's clue.........
Photo Clue #2
Week of September 18th
- Keep swap to a minimum
- Please notify me of any lesson swaps
Cancellations: This is where I will let you know of any cancellations due to illnesses. You are more than welcome to grab a slot that has been cancelled. No cancellations this week! 😊
Italian Intrigue
This is our Incentive Program for this year. For those who were with me in 2012, you will remember this program. I loved this and so have decided to bring it out again.
Each month, at the beginning of the week, I will post a photo clue on this blog and on the bulletin board in the entryway in my studio. Students are to try and figure out, from these photo clues, in what Italian city a mystery musician is hiding. They then will travel, using coins that they will be earning each week in the studio, to that city and will unscramble a name to discover the Mystery Musician. **For students who are younger (Grade 5 and under), it will be good for parents to be involved and help your student figure out the City Clues. Every 5-6 weeks, new photo clues will be posted for a new city and a different Mystery Musician!
Lots of fun with many opportunities to earn coins and to complete challenges to help further their musical studies.
Buon Viaggio!! ⛵
Photo Clue #1
Welcome Back Students!
Fall 2017-2018
Welcome to another year of piano and musical studies! I think you will find that while we still have many expectations that you would find anywhere (like practicing!), I try to incorporate fun and creative ways of achieving our musical goals. I look forward to every year!
September 2017
GROUP INTRODUCTORY LESSON
All students should attend one of our Introductory Group Lessons on Monday, September 11th, either from 4:15- 5:15 or from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at my home. Contents of each student's planner will be handed out and I will introduce and explain this year's incentive program. As time allows, we will a fun game to get everyone interacting together. If you have questions, please feel free to email or call me.
All students should attend one of our Introductory Group Lessons on Monday, September 11th, either from 4:15- 5:15 or from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at my home. Contents of each student's planner will be handed out and I will introduce and explain this year's incentive program. As time allows, we will a fun game to get everyone interacting together. If you have questions, please feel free to email or call me.
Final Week of Lessons
Its hard to believe, but we've reached the end! This is the last week of our normal private lessons. The week of May 16th & 17th is our Year End Celebration Party. All should have received emails about when and where.
Its been a great year and I'm so appreciative of the hard work of the students and of the diligence of you parents to see them through each week. We've accomplished so much!
So our final week includes:
Spring Recital: Thursday, May 12th, 7:00 pm; Bethlehem Baptist Church, 5151 Program Avenue, Mounds View. See you there
No Computer Labs
Lessons Cancellations: No known cancellations at this time
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Its done! The tour bus has returned home and there will be no more traveling opportunities. Most students have completed all of their countries. Good job! I have posted the reports that students have done all year on my studio wall. The countries that were traveled to were: Iran, Austria, Spain, Israel, Russia, Nigeria, Native American culture and China. Many different sounds were enjoyed as we listened to the musical styles from many of these countries/cultures. Good job students!
Group Lesson Sign Up were emailed out this week. If you have not received an email, please contact me. Thank you!
Final Computer Lab!
Lessons Cancellation: There is a Monday, 7:00 pm opening (30 or 45 min.), and a Tuesday, 4:15 opening (30 min) slot
Spring Recital: A mailing was sent out to everyone on Friday with all the information needed. Please contact me if you have not received anything.
Final 2 weeks for student's to accomplish all their global travels. Awards will be given to all, but special awards go to those who have completed their journey to all 8 countries. Check with your student. There are a few students who have not yet completed the world tour.
Final Group Lesson: Look for an email this week with sign up times for our final Group Lesson/Award Party on Monday May 16th or Tuesday, May 17th. Lots of fun things planned!
No Computer Labs this week. The last lab will be the week of May 2nd.
Lesson Cancellations: The Wednesday 7:00 pm slot is taken this week.
Week of April 18th
Computer Labs are this week. The week of May 2nd will be the final lab for the year.
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations
Road Construction: Well, it's spring and time for road construction, and this year Harper Street will be affected. Beginning Monday, Harper's Street will be closed. The detour is easy. You will go 1/2 mile east of Harper to Legacy Creek Parkway and turn north. When you come to the roundabout, you will go left on 126th Avenue which will take you straight to Harper Street and on to my house. It should go smoothly, EXCEPT this will be the only exit and entrance into this whole housing area, so it could get backed up. If possible, plan a few extra minutes to get here.
GROUP LESSONS will be held on May 16th & 17th and is our final piano week for the year.
Spring Recital: Thursday, May 12th 7:00 pm
Week of April 11th
No Computer Labs this week
Lesson Cancellations: There is a 7:00 pm opening on Wednesdays until the end of the year. The 8:00 pm slot on Wednesdays is taken.
Spring Recital: Thursday, May 12th; 7:00 pm
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Final few weeks of our global travel. Four students completed their tour and are headed for their favorite vacation spot in the world for the final few weeks. It looks like most students have accomplished the goals this year. Good job students!
Week of April 4th
Computer Labs are this week.
Lesson Cancellations: There is a Monday; 4:00 - 4:45 slot open
Week of March 28th
No Computer Labs this week
Lesson Cancellations: There is a Monday, 2:00 pm (30 min), 6:00 pm (30 min) and Tuesday, 8:15 pm cancellations
With just a few weeks left of our piano year, students should have only 2 countries or less to finish up their world tour. They have done quite well at pursuing clues and getting to countries and accomplishing their challenges. Remember there is a prize for those who get to all 8 countries awarded at our final Group Lesson the week of May 16th & 17th
Spring Recital Reminder: Thursday, May 12th; 7:00 pm; Bethlehem Baptist Church
Week of March 21st
I'm having problems with the blog site recently. I keep working on it and communicating with the site, but please bear with any "odd" layouts, colors, etc that you might see!
Forward! After coming back from Spring Break, it always feels like we're on the home stretch, which we are! Students will begin receiving music and working on songs for our Spring Recital, which this year will be on Thursday May 12th. Practicing gets tougher as spring schedules (concerts, sports, plays, etc) kick in AND as the weather warms. Please keep encouraging your students to practice
Computer Labs will be this week.
Lesson Cancellations: There are 2 openings today (Monday) One is at 2 pm (30 minute slot) and the other is at 2:30 pm (45 min slot). The 7:45 pm slot tonight is filled.
Week of March 7th
Computer Labs will be held again this week
Lesson Cancellations: Spring Break has begun which means some changes in the week's schedule. There is an opening on Monday at 6:30 pm (30 min) and a Wednesday opening at 3:45 (30 or 45 min)
Spring Break for the studio is the week of March 14th. Lessons will resume on March 21st.
Week of February 29/March 1
After a brief break for the students, lessons resume! We will be in our final push for the our Spring Recital, which will be held on May 12th. For now, note the following:
Computer Labs are scheduled for this week AND for next week (March 7th)
Lessons Cancellations: There is a 30 minute lesson opening this week on Monday at 6:30 pm. The Monday 7:45 slot is taken for this week.
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Students have 2 and half months to complete their world tour. I'll be checking each student's notebook to double check that they've completed their requirements (learn 2 global songs) and are well situated to finish discovering the 8 countries/cultures we were touring this year. Parents, you are welcome and encouraged to help the students solve their country's clue card!
Week of February 22nd
What a week it was! Below I've posted a few pictures of the week. I was so proud of the students as they played for residents of the Scandia Shores Senior Community on February 18th. Scandia graciously hosted my students in a beautiful dining room setting. Around 30 residents came to listen to the students, who all played wonderfully (even with a sticking F note!) Following the recitals, the students gave cards and a flower and talked with many of the residents, making new friends. Such a fun evening!
Saturday, February 20th, was The National Federation of Music Clubs Piano Festival. Eleven of my students participated in this event and they all made me so proud! Seven of them participated in the Honor's Recital. Congratulations! Here are a couple of pictures of the day.
Now onto our week! Remember
Group Lessons will be held on Monday and Tuesday in place of your student's normal private lesson. Emails have been sent with your assigned day and time. If you have not heard from me, please contact me and I will give you the information.
Have a great week!!!
Week of Febrary 15th
BIG week in the studio! First there is:
Scandia Shores Piano Recital
Thursday; 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Scandia Shores Senior Community, 418 Hwy 96, Shoreview
This is my FAVORITE recital of the year, hands down! Students are well prepared and we get to give the gift of music to the people at Scandia Shores. You will find them delightful and will come away with new friends and just feeling good down to your toes! Remember! Bring one card per student to share with a resident. Plan to spend an extra 20 minutes chatting with the folks. They have interesting stories to tell and will want to hear about you too!
Then:
National Federation Of Music Clubs Festival
Saturday, February 20th
Our Saviors Lutheran Church, East Bethel
Eleven students will be participating in this event this year. All of them have worked hard at preparing their 2 pieces which will be judged on memory, expression, articulation, etc. I will be cheering you on! Get a good night's sleep and remember to bring your music to the event (and eat a banana! It helps calm the nerves!)
No Computer Labs this week
Lesson Cancellations: No sneezes, sniffles or stomach bugs reported so lessons are as scheduled...so far!
GROUP LESSONS will be held next week (February 22nd and 23rd) instead of private lessons. Check your email for schedule.
Week of February 8th
Computer Labs this week
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations currently. Last week, I needed to cancel lessons due to weather. I will try to post on the blog when there are weather related cancellations, but I also will email to make sure I reach everyone.
Scandia Shores Recital: Our recital is a week and a half away. Please remember to bring one card per student to share with a resident following our recital. They love these simple gifts! Also, please plan on staying an additional 20 minutes following our recital to talk with residents. They will enjoy meeting your delightful student! It will be a bright spot in their day...I promise!
National Federation Of Music Clubs Festival
Only TWO more lessons before we play at the Festival. I am very happy with the level of work and preparation that students are applying towards their pieces. They need to keep persevering, so please add your encouragement as they near the Festival.This week, I will hand out all original copies of their music to them. Please keep track of these. I will not have duplicates, and it would add such stress and anxiety to their performance if we would have to try and locate a copy.
Week of February 1st
No Computer Labs This week
Lesson Cancellations: None at this time
National Federation of Music Clubs Festival
3 weeks to go!
Week of January 25th
Yes! Computer labs are this week.
Lessons Cancellations: No cancellations at this time.
Scandia Shores Piano RecitalWhen? Thursday, February 18th
Time? 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Where? Scandia Shores Senior Community; 418 Highway 96, Shoreview
What to bring? Music and one card per child to share with a resident following the recital
How to Dress? Dressy casual. No t-shirts with graphics, dressy jeans are fine
National Federation of Music Clubs Festival
4 Weeks to go! I'm very proud of the hard work that each student is doing towards this event. All is well, but they need to keep pressing on. Scheduled times along with other information will be sent in the mail this week.
Tour of the World!
Travel continues and there should be some fun music happening in your homes. Students are winding down their travels and those that get to all 8 countries will be receiving a special reward at our end of year party in May.
Week of January 18th
No Computer Labs this week
Lesson Cancellations: There is a cancellation for Monday night at 6:00 pm and one for Wednesday at 7:00 pm (30 min slot)
Lesson Cancellations: There is a cancellation for Monday night at 6:00 pm and one for Wednesday at 7:00 pm (30 min slot)
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Most students are working on their 5th country. Global explorations have allowed students to hear videos of beautiful cultural instruments, learn songs and some have done reports where they learned about composer and/or instruments from other countries. Keep going students. Our Global Destination will be here soon!
5 Weeks until our National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) Festival. Students are doing a great job as they practice their pieces. Keep encouraging.
Scandia Shores Piano Recital
Everyone is invited to participate in one of my favorite events, our Scandia Shores Recital. This is a new location and I think students will enjoy the beautiful environment and friendly residents of Scandia Shores. This is a service recital, meaning we are coming to give joy to the residents at Scandia Shore. Besides playing one piece, each student is asked to bring one card to give to the residents at the end of our recital. Following our recital, I ask that each student take time to talk with the residents and give them your card. Please do include a personal note, a drawing, etc., as the residents there will greatly enjoy that!
When: Thursday, February 18th
Time: 7:00 pm - 8:15 pm (approx)
Where: Scandia Shores Senior Community, 418 Highway 96, Shoreview
Week of January 11th
A frosty week is ahead! But with it comes a lot of beautiful Arctic Sunshine!
Computer Labs are this week. Plan accordingly
National Federation of Piano Festivals
When: Saturday, February 20th
Time: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, East Bethel, MN
Swap List A new swap list is in your student's binder this week. Please use this for any unavoidable conflicts in your schedule. Both email and phone numbers are listed for your convenience. Any slots marked "open" are available to be used as well
WELCOME BACK! WELCOME 2016!
Lessons will resume this week, January 4th. There are no Computer Labs this week.
Tour of the World Incentive Program We'll start our travels again this week. Watch out for Detours!
National Federation of Piano Festivals: Many of your received letters for application in the NFMC Piano Festival. Please let me know ASAP if you are interested in your student participating in this event. Fees are due January 8th
Swap List: A new swap list will be coming out as soon as I firm up a couple of schedules. Monday's 7:15 pm slot is now taken.
Merry Christmas! Final Week Before Christmas Break
No Computer Labs this week
Student Christmas Recital
Our Student Christmas Recital is this coming Wednesday, December 9th from 5:00 - 6:30 pm. This is a favorite recital for students. Its hard to beat playing Christmas music, enjoying games and eating lots of yummy food! Thank you to all you parents for helping provide a feast for the students.This recital will conclude lessons for the Fall Session 2015. Students with Monday and Tuesday lessons will have their normal private lessons this week. Wednesday students will not be able to have private lessons due to the recital
Lessons will resume again on Monday, January 4th
May you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year Holiday with people you love!
Week of November 30th/December 1st
Computer Labs will be held this week.
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations or changes
Student Christmas Recital:
When? Dec. 9th; 5:00 - 6:30 pm
Who? Students from beginner through 8th Grade
What to Bring? Christmas Music and food (see email for information)
Final recital before our Christmas Break (see calendar page for specific dates)
Students have done well this semester with their tour of the world and its music. Next semester, they need to make 4 to 5 stops by the end of year, which will include Detours! as well as their country visits. Keep encouraging them to practice and achieve their country goals!
Have A Very Merry Christmas!!
Week of November 16th
Computer Labs this week
Lesson Cancellations/Opening: The Monday 7:15 pm slot has been taken for this week. That means that the Tuesday 7:30 pm slot is available.
Group Lessons: November 23rd & 24th
Sign ups will be done through the email. Please RSVP so I know how to respond.
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Students are making good progress in our world travels. Some have completed Detour Cards and other will have their cards coming. Remember. No challenges will be completed until the Detour Card is completed. Yucky detours!
No Computer Labs this week.
Lesson Cancellations/Opening: No cancellations this week.
GROUP LESSONS: November 23rd & 24th:
As this is the week of Thanksgiving and often families head out of town or are busy with hosting family gatherings, Group Lessons, work well for that week. I again will be sending out an email with sign up options.
Week of November 2nd
This will be a normal private lesson week. However note that:
There are Computer labs again this week. Next Computer lab will be November 16th
Lesson Cancellations/Opening: Monday's 7:15 pm slot has been taken. Wednesday's 2:30 pm slot is now available.
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Last week, a few students received Detour Cards, which means they have to complete the detour before they will be allowed to continue in finishing their country challenge. These were designed to reinforce some skills in a fun way (reading music upside down, drawing, etc) Ask to see if your students has one to complete. Encourage them on the game. You might find that you, as parents, have something that you will have to do.
Week of October 26th
What a fun & crazy week we had last week. Group lessons and our Fall Musicale made for an eventful week. Below are a few pics from the week:
The last picture shows that the party was a success! Food in their tummies and a mess on the table from our craft project! Thanks for everyone's happy participation!
Computer Labs are this week
Lesson Cancellations/Changes: Monday's 7:15 - 8:00 slot is filled. There is an opening this week on Wednesday at 4:30 pm (30 minute lesson)
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Back to our travels this week. But watch out! I expect that there will be some Detour possibilities!
Week of October 12th
Thank you to everyone for such a delightful fall! Teaching piano to your students has been such a joy! I love seeing each and every student and feel blessed 22 times over as I have the privilege of teaching piano to these wonderful kids. Thanks for being such good sharers!
Lesson Cancellations: There is an opening on Wednesday, October 14th from 7:00 to 8:00. The open slot on Monday at 7:15 is filled this week
No Computer Labs this week
GROUP LESSONS: October 19th & 20th An email was sent out on Friday with sign up times for those days. If you did not receive that email, please contact me and I will get it out to you immediately. These Group Lessons take the place of your usual private lesson and last for one hour. Snacks are provided...so plan dinner accordingly!
Saturday, October 24th
10:00 - 11:30 am
My Home
Students, Grade 6 and down, are invited to my home on Saturday, October 24th at 10:0 am for a fulfilled Fall Recital. We will enjoy Autumn themed music, play Autumn themed games, have a Autumn themed craft and eat yummy Autumn themed food. Who wouldn't want to come?! And, though I don't ban parents, this is really for students only. Its a great way to gain some performance experience in a less stressful atmosphere. All are encouraged to come in costume (I will have one!), but costumes are not necessary if your child prefers not to wear one.
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Onward and upward! Students are working on 2nd Country Clue Card. I expect to see new locations for many of our Tourists. I wonder what challenges they will choose? Will the paths to their country stay straight? Or could there be rough seas for some? Hmmmm!
Week of October 5th
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations at this time.
Computer Labs this week.
Tour of the World Incentive Program
This past week, a few students completed their challenge and earned the 35 points needed for their next Country Clue Card. Good work! I'm enjoying some varying "country's" music along with 2 reports done by students for their challengeStudents will learn this week that they should watch out for "Detours", unexpected route changes, anytime during the next 2 months. They will need to follow the Detour route before they can continue their current country challenge. Sorry! Just like real travel, you never know when things may go awry!
Week of September 28th
Computer lab week
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations at this time
Tour of the World
Incentive Program
Most students solved their first country clue and now are working on the first challenge. Please ask your student about their challenge and make sure they are working to complete this. They have 2 to 3 weeks to complete their challenge. In order to receive their next clue, they must earn 35 points (easy if you practice) and they must complete their challenge.
Week of September 21st
No Computer Labs This Week
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations at this time. There are a few open slots on the Swap List that you are welcome to use for unavoidable conflicts if needed. Otherwise, use the contact information on the back of the Swap List to help you solve schedule conflicts.
Tour of the World Incentive Program
Students received the first Country Clue Card last week. Everyone should come to this week's lesson with the clue solved if possible. Its ok for parents to help and to use the computer! The students will then be choosing a Country Challenge Card from which they must choose one challenge. Ask your students what challenge they will be working on and encourage them as they achieve this goal.
Week of September 14th
Lessons begin on Monday, September 14th. Please check your student binders and read through this year's incentive program, Tour du World. Also, please proofread the current Swap List which is in your student's binder. On the back I've listed names, phone numbers and emails. Please let me know if anything is incorrect. Thank you!
Tour of the World
Incentive Program
This year our incentive program is little bit of Amazing Race and Clue combined. Students will need to solve Clue Cards for 8 different countries/cultures. After solving their clue, they will be given a Challenge Card and need to choose one challenge to complete before they can get the next clue card. Along with the challenge, students must also earn 35 points in order to receive the next clue card. Points can be earned through practice, performance, etc. Check your student's binder to see what the rules are for the this year's program. Vroom! Vroom! They're off!
Computer Labs will be held this week.
WELCOME BACK STUDENTS!
Week of September 7th
Welcome to another year of piano and musical studies! Especially I want to welcome the new students and their families. I think you will find that while we still have many expectations that you would find anywhere (like practicing!), I try to incorporate fun and creative ways of achieving our musical goals. I look forward to every year!
GROUP INTRODUCTORY LESSON
All students should attend one of our Introductory Group Lessons on Wednesday, September 9th, either from 4:15- 5:15 or from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at my home. Contents of each student's planner will be handed out and I will introduce and explain this year's incentive program. As time allows, we will have a video and maybe a game to get everyone interacting together. If you have questions, please feel free to email or call me.
Week of September 7th
Welcome to another year of piano and musical studies! Especially I want to welcome the new students and their families. I think you will find that while we still have many expectations that you would find anywhere (like practicing!), I try to incorporate fun and creative ways of achieving our musical goals. I look forward to every year!
GROUP INTRODUCTORY LESSON
All students should attend one of our Introductory Group Lessons on Wednesday, September 9th, either from 4:15- 5:15 or from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at my home. Contents of each student's planner will be handed out and I will introduce and explain this year's incentive program. As time allows, we will have a video and maybe a game to get everyone interacting together. If you have questions, please feel free to email or call me.
Week of April 27th
The time is going by so fast! There will be many things happening in the studio. Keep checking the blog for reminders, updates, etc.
No Computer Mission Labs this week. Our final labs will be the week of May 4th. Students should expect a theory exam to help me evaluate what progress was made this year.
Lesson Cancellations There is a Wednesday, 4:15 open this week
SPRING RECITAL is just 2 weeks away! With the weather so beautiful, it can be hard for students to find the motivation to stay inside, sit at the piano and practice. But please make sure that they are encouraged to do so. There's just a couple more weeks and then they can be released to be outside and free from piano practice!!
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC
The final 2 weeks to earn coins to return to earth are upon us. Extra points will be added for well prepared recital pieces, as well as points for playing at our recital and participating in the group lessons. But practice still matters! 5 days = $5, 6 days = $10 and 7 days = $12 Having Mom sign off on your assignment sheet gives you $5. That's easy money!!
Week of April 20th
Spring Recital: After students' lessons this week, there will be just two more lessons before our recital. Because this year we will be performing an all-studio project, attendance at this is critical. This is the only required recital I have each year. (see policy sheet)
Lessons Cancellations: None
Computer Mission Labs ARE this week. Final computer labs for the year will be the week of May 4th.
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC
All students participating in this year's incentive program will need to be back on Earth by May 12th or 13th to receive the EGOM award. Keep practicing! Remember extra points can be earned by perfecting pieces to performance level, playing in recitals, talent shows, church events, etc. Ask me for additional ways that you can earn points if needed.
Week of April 13th
Lesson Cancellations: There is one opening on Monday, at 3:45 (30 or 45 min lesson). The Tuesday 3:45 slot is filled for this week.
No Computer Mission Labs This Week
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Spring Recital:
Just four weeks left until our May 7th Spring Recital!
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC
We have astronauts back on earth! Good job! Keep working on completing your planet explorations and collecting fuel points to get you back to Earth. Four weeks left!!
Week of April 6th
I had a wonderful spring break, but am ready to get back into lessons. We have just Five weeks lift to our Spring Recital. Practice, practice, practice. There's just no other way! :-/
Yes. This is a Computer Mission Lab Week. We have focused on chords and compositions in our labs lately. Many of the students are working with lead sheets. Look for a special "project" in our Spring Recital in May that has come out of all of their hard work!
Lesson Cancellations: Nothing known at this time
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC
is coming to an end. Just 4 weeks left to get to all the planets and then return to earth. All students who have made the full galaxy tour and returned to the earth under their own power (all astronauts will gathered from space and brought back to earth via special teacher transport) will receive a special reward at our end of year party. I expect some earth landings this week!
Week of March 23rd
No Computer Mission Labs This Week
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations. Please look at the Swap List in your student's binders. I've added several new students this spring, so many of my open slots are now filled.
SPRING BREAK will begin on Monday, March 30th and go through Friday, April 3rd. Regular lesson schedule will resume on Monday, April 6th
Recital Countdown: There are now just Six weeks left to our final Spring Recital. Keep encouraging your students and try, as much as possible, to give consistent regular practice time. It gets tough in this beautiful weather that we've had!
Exploring The Galaxy of Music: There are just a few weeks left for astronauts to finish exploring all planets and return to earth. Several students will make their earth landing in the next week or two. Remind your students that they can earn extra Cosmic Coins by being willing to work a song to recital level and/or playing at other venues (school talent shows, etc.) Please let me know if your student has played at other venues.WEEK OF MARCH 16th
Computer Mission Labs This Week
Lesson Cancellation and Schedule Changes: No cancellations know at this time. The Monday 3:45 slot is now filled! Welcome Mackenzie!
Lesson Cancellation and Schedule Changes: No cancellations know at this time. The Monday 3:45 slot is now filled! Welcome Mackenzie!
Week of March 9th
NO COMPUTER MISSION LABS THIS WEEK
LESSON CANCELLATIONS: There are two cancellations this week on Wednesday. One at 3:00 pm (30 or 45 min lesson) and one at 3:45 (30 min lesson)
RECITAL WEEK COUNT DOWN: We have Eight weeks until our final Spring Recital on Thursday, May 7th. More information will be given out in the coming weeks
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC: Astronauts, you should be in your final leg of planetary exploration. In about 4 weeks, your goal should be earth. Practice practice practice!
WELCOME MARCH!
CONGRATULATIONS to all participants of the National Federation Music Clubs Festival. I was so proud of each student. They played so well and worked so hard to get to the Festival. I celebrate all rewards from the growth of the musical study to the ratings earned on their judges sheets! I'm so proud of each of you!
COMPUTER MISSION LABS THIS WEEK
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC:
Astronauts have been making steady progress as they go from planet to planet. Over the next weeks, their Cosmic Challenge will be working on lead sheet playing, which means studying chords and putting simple melodies with chords. Practicing at this time of year can dwindle, but its important that astronauts not neglect their spaceship! Encourage them to work hard at practicing as we head towards our final destination...earth and Spring Recital!
LESSON CANCELLATIONS: No cancellations this week. Look at Swap List, located in your student's binder for help with lesson swaps for schedule conflicts.
Week of February 16th
NO COMPUTER MISSION LABS THIS WEEK
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF MUSIC CLUBS PARTICIPANTS: This is our final week of preparation before our Festival. Students are doing so well, but as I've said before, continued regular practice is so important. Please note that our Lake Johanna Shore recital is an important recital for all Festival participants. This gives you a chance to do a run through before you play on Saturday and correct any glitches that a performance can reveal.
LESSON CANCELLATIONS: There are 2 cancellations on Tuesday this week at 4:30 and 5:00 pm.
LAKE JOHANNA SHORES RECITAL:
When? Thursday, February 19th
Time? 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Where? Lake Johanna Shores Presbyterian Homes, 3200 Lake Johanna Blvd., Arden Hills, MN
SEE YOU THERE!
GROUP LESSONS: There will be no private lessons next week, but I will be doing Group Lessons (a.k.a. Briefing Sessions) on Monday and Tuesday. Watch for an email listing time choices.
SEE YOU THERE!
GROUP LESSONS: There will be no private lessons next week, but I will be doing Group Lessons (a.k.a. Briefing Sessions) on Monday and Tuesday. Watch for an email listing time choices.
Week of February 9th
COMPUTER MISSION LABS THIS WEEK To accommodate the upcoming recital and Festival competition, I've moved labs one week earlier.
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF MUSIC CLUBS PARTICIPANTS: We now have 2 more lessons before the Festival competition. By now, all students should have their songs memorized and be working on final details of polishing and performance. I am so pleased with where the students are in their work of preparation, but it is important that regular disciplined practice be continued.
LAKE JOHANNA SHORES RECITAL: This year marks the 10th year that my studio has gone to Lake Johanna Shores Presbyterian Homes and put on a wonderful recital for the residents there. I LOVE this recital as not only are the students well prepared and polished, but we have the privilege of talking with and sharing a card with residents who are in their final season of life. How precious are the smiles and conversations between students and residents.
When? Thursday, February 19th
Time? 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Where? Lake Johanna Shores Presbyterian Homes, 3200 Lake Johanna Blvd., Arden Hills, MN
LESSON CANCELLATIONS: No cancellations this week. However, please look for an updated Swap List in your student's folder. Welcome to new students Natalie, Eliana and Kaitlyn!
GROUP LESSONS will be held the week of February 23rd. I will send out an email next week for sign up times.
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC:
Students are flying through space! Some students have explored 6 or 7 planets and are ready to make landing on a new planet. Cosmic travelers have explored rhythms, note reading, sight reading and now they are working hard at cosmic chords! Keep those rocket tanks filled with fuel by practicing hard!
Week of February 2nd
COMPUTER MISSION LABS ARE THIS WEEK
Lesson Cancellations: There is now an opening at 3:45 pm and 5:30 pm on Monday. No cancellations for this week as of today (Feb. 1st)
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF MUSIC CLUBS: Those students who are participating in the National Federation Music Competition are in their final 3 weeks of preparation. I'm very pleased with their progress, though there is still a lot of hard work and discipline ahead of them. Keep encouraging them as they practice and make sure they have consistent quality practice time.
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC:
Keep earning your rocket fuel coins kids! There is a lot more of the galaxy to be explored. Don't stall out in outer space. Keep those rocket tanks full! Currently, for Cosmic Challenges, the students are working on chords and will be completing a unit on lead sheets. Now is a great time to get to as many planets as possible. Cosmic Challenges are being interwoven in your computer lab times!
Week of January 12th
NO COMPUTER MISSION LABS THIS WEEK
Lesson Cancellations: There are no cancellations this week! (If you read this earlier, the 5:30 slot was NOT cancelled for this week.) Reminder: Tuesday 4:30 & 5:00 pm slots are filled permanently
Week of January 5th
Welcome 2015 and welcome back students! I've missed you! I hope all of you had wonderful Christmas and New Year celebrations. I look forward to seeing you again and getting back into our piano routine
COMPUTER MISSION LABS ARE THIS WEEK
National Federation of Music Clubs Festival competition is approaching. The dates for this are Saturday, February 21st at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Cedar, MN (new location!). Students have been working on their pieces before Christmas and hopefully they were working on them over Christmas break. Families with students participating in this event should have received a mailing last week. Please call if you did not receive a mailing or have any questions
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations known at this time. However, I welcome the Schmitz family into our studio. The Tuesday 4:30 and 5:00 pm slots are now filled. Welcome Schmitz family!
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC
We have have 18 weeks left to travel to all the planets and complete your Cosmic Challenges. Many have landed (and survived!) on the Sun and so they will be moving much more quickly now. Look for a new chart that shows where each astronaut has been. I hope that will encourage others to press on!
Week of December 8th
This will be a big week in the studio. Students will all have their normal lessons this week, but we also have our annual Student Christmas Recital. Let's see.....I think this is Christmas Recital 14 or 15 since returning to the Cities!
Student Christmas Recital
Thursday, December 11th
5:00 - 6:30 pm
Mrs. Onufrock's home
Beginners - 8th Grade
This student only recital is a fun filled hour and a half of music, eating and fun games aimed at building camaraderie and music theory review and celebrating the Christmas season. An email has been sent asking for help making this recital a success. Thank you for all your wonderful support and help through this fall! I greatly enjoy all of your kids!
NO MISSION COMPUTER LABS THIS WEEK
LESSON CANCELLATIONS: No lesson cancellations known at this time. Keep checking for any updates.
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC:
Kids have done well this fall. Many of them took on the task of getting to the Sun, which was the most expensive planet to get to. Cosmic Challenges were completed and some are off to their 3rd and 4th planets! Way to go Astronauts!
Week of December 1st
Welcome December and welcome back students. I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving. Its hard to believe, but we are down to just 2 weeks of piano lessons before we begin our Christmas break. Time is flying by! As a reminder, here is the schedule for the next couple of weeks:
December 1st - Regular piano lesson schedule
December 8th - Regular piano lesson schedule
December 11th - Student Christmas Recital (see calendar page for details)
MISSION COMPUTER LABS ARE THIS WEEK
LESSON CANCELLATIONS: Monday opening at 6:45 or 7:15. Tuesday lesson slots from 7:30 - 8:30 are taken.
Week of November 17th
LESSON CANCELLATIONS/OPENINGS: This week, I have Monday, 5:00 & 5:30 slots open (both are 30 minute slots). Tuesday evening slots are taken this week.
MISSION COMPUTER LABS ARE THIS WEEK
Does your child have a Cosmic Challenge to complete? Cosmic challenges are designed to help me to do a little theory review with each students. They are necessary to complete before they can "take off" to a new planet. Ask your student if they have a Cosmic Challenge to complete
IMPORTANT DATES: Our first Briefing Session (aka Group Lesson) will be held the week of Thanksgiving. I will be sending an email from which you may sign up. Also, our Student Christmas Recital is on Thursday, Dec 11th from 5:00 - 6:30 pm and is for all students up through 8th grade.
STAY WARM!!
Week of November 10th
Winter Weather Warning:
Here we go again! And so soon!! It looks like we will be getting nailed with snow tomorrow, but the meterologists are unsure of how much we will actually get. (It doesn't sound promising!) I am planning on doing lessons as normal, but will switch out lessons if the weather is too dangerous to drive in. If you are comfortable, and want to keep your Monday lessons as normal, I will be here. However, if you are uncomfortable driving in this first snowfall, drop me an email. I put an updated Swap List in your student's binders last week. There are openings on Tuesday. Unfortunately, this coming Thursday is overflowing with commitments, so I am unable to teach that day. I will post if I decide to completely call off Monday lessons. At that time I will contact each Monday lesson to see when we could do a make up. A possibility for me is Saturday, November 15th.
LESSON CANCELLATIONS: The weather may cancel a lot. But otherwise, I do have an opening on Monday from 7:30 to 8:45 pm. Tuesday 8:00 & 8:30 slots are filled.
Tuesday 3:30 to 4:15 slot has been filled
Tuesday 3:30 to 4:15 slot has been filled
NO MISSION COMPUTER LABS THIS WEEK
Week of November 3rd
After a couple week of computer woes, I think I'm back up and running. I apologize for not posting last week, but after 4 tries, all of which failed, I quit!
LESSON CANCELLATION: Monday's 4:30 empty slot is taken for this week. But Wednesday's slot from 3:45 to 4:15 is open. Otherwise, there are open slots on Tuesdays that you are welcome to use if needed.
MISSION COMPUTER LABS ARE THIS WEEK
MISSION COMPUTER LABS ARE THIS WEEK
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC
Several astronauts, though their hard work and diligent practice, made it to the sun this week! Good job kids! (Yes, in our world we can explore the sun.....special astronaut suits!) Some astronauts are on their 2nd planet exploration and are working to complete their Cosmic Challenge. I'm so proud everyone and you should hear some of the music in my studio. Phenomenal!!
HALLOWEEN RECITAL PICTURES; What a lot of fun we had at our Halloween Recital Party. I'm posting a few picture of the morning. There was much I didn't get!
Our "witches brew" for our snack !
Creative costumes and bright smiles. Even Molly joined us....relunctantly!
HALLOWEEN RECITAL PICTURES; What a lot of fun we had at our Halloween Recital Party. I'm posting a few picture of the morning. There was much I didn't get!
Our "witches brew" for our snack !
Creative costumes and bright smiles. Even Molly joined us....relunctantly!
Week of October 20th
What a beautiful time of year and what beautiful colors popped over this past year. This season is why I love living in Minnesota.
MISSION COMPUTER LABS THIS WEEK
HALLOWEEN RECITAL: Saturday, Oct 25th; 10:00 - 11:30 am
All students through Grade 5 are invited to our Halloween Recital. Come wearing a costume and be ready to play your Fall/Halloween Music. Games, food and crafts are included as well. We always have a lot of fun! Call if you have questions.
STAYING HEALTHY: We have entered the season of flus and colds. Remind students to wash their hands before playing the piano. I always have hand sanitizer by the piano and in the office as well. The piano and computer keyboards are great places to carry germs, so please be sensitive to others and keep clean hands when using them. No sharing allowed in these locations! Thanks!
Lesson Cancellations:
EXPLORING THE GALAXY OF MUSIC
Most students have paid the landing fee for their first planet exploration. Their mission on each planet is to choose and complete one Cosmic Challenge. Check your student's binder to see if they have a Challenge to complete. No astronaut can leave the planet to soar to other worlds without completing these challenges. Questions? As always contact me to help with any confusions! We don't want you lost in space!
Week of October 6th
FALL BREAK NEXT WEEK: NO LESSONS OCTOBER 13th - 15th
Mission Computer Labs? Yes, this is a lab week.
Lesson Cancellations: There is an opening on Wednesday from 3:45 - 4:15. This week, Monday's 4:30 slot is filled.
EXPLORING THE GALAXY: All space travelers are doing fantastic. Some are working on their first Cosmic Challenge and collecting more funds to travel to other planets. Practice times have improved tremendously! Thank you! Progress is phenomenal! Keep it up!
Week of September 22nd
Mission Computer labs? Yes! This is a lab week.
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations. Keep checking for any changes.
EXPLORING THE GALAXY: All astronauts have made it off the landing pad and are on Earth ready to launch to their first planet. The space travelers are collecting their cosmic coins so they may pay landing fees required at each planet. As all astronauts need to be carefully prepared, keep encouraging diligent practice. REMEMBER THAT READING YOUR MISSION DETAILS (assignment sheet) IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR SPACE TRAVEL!
Week of September 15th
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations. Look at Swap List in your student's binder for open slots that you can use for schedule conflicts.
No Mission Labs this week
Exploring the Galaxy of Music
2014-2014 Practice Incentive Program
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This year students will be working to earn Cosmic Coins in order that they may travel to 8 different planets. Once they've landed, they pay a landing fee and complete a Cosmic Challenge so they may continue on to a new planet. Each week they will earn coins through Mission Details (assignments), number and quality of practice days (Mission Ratings), and other options from which they can choose. The goal? To get back to earth by the end of the year and enjoy a Space Themed party with awards. Get ready! We're blasting off to a great year!
Mission Labs (Computer Labs) are this week. September 8th - 10th
Have you looked at your student's binders? Please take a peek at your student's binder so you will know what we are trying to do each week. This week, every student should receive a Swap List and a current Piano Calendar. The swap list is there to help you make needed "swaps" when you run into unavoidable conflicts. Remember, as stated in the policy sheet, I only do make up lessons for illness or family emergencies. My hope is that the swap list will help with the other conflicts that happen in all of our lives
Open Lesson Slots: This year, I have several open slots for new students. I appreciate any referrals for potential piano students. Thank you!
WELCOME TO 2014-2015
Grace Notes Music Studio
Its been a great summer, but I am excited to welcome back returning students and to extend my welcome to the many new students this year. While our main goal is always to learn to play the piano beautifully and with skill, I also want to incorporate fun and competition into our yearly schedule. Our first fall lesson, which is a Group Introductory Session, will introduce this year's theme. I'm not yet ready to reveal this year's Practice Incentive Theme, but come to the group session and you will hear about our theme as well as other important information to make piano a success. See ALL of you Wednesday, September 3rd!SUMMER LESSONS
Welcome to students who will be continuing on with their piano studies this summer! I take a more laid back approach to our summer studies as I know in between lessons families will be enjoying the lake, camps, vacations, etc. That makes practicing abit more challenging....understandable with our short summers in Minnesota!
So, to help motivate students in their summer piano studies, I've developed a little incentive program that can flex with each student's schedule. So welcome to
A Star Is Born!
Students will earn stars by the number of minutes they practice. These stars will eventually land them on "Star Challenges" which will allow them to earn tickets towards prizes that will be chosen on their last lesson. Some of the possible "Star Challenges" include Celebrity Composers and Reel'y Great Rhythms. Students will choose their "Star Challenges" from my list.
Along with these challenges, students will be working on a solo piece and one ensemble piece. We'll use the summer calendar to choose out favorite songs. Movie themes, worship choruses or fun pop songs are just some of the possibilities. Its going to be a fun summer!
Lessons begin June 11th. See you then!
Welcome to the 2013-2014 Grace Notes Music Studio!
Final Group Lessons/Awards
Our final Group Lesson was a fun time to be together, to celebrate the students accomplishments and to award everyone who solved our Misterioso Mansion Mystery. Many worked hard to come up with our Mystery Composer - Charles Gounod; our Mystery Song - Funeral March of a Marionette and our thief - Chef Chopin who hid the mystery song in the kettle in the kitchen. Awards were composer statues from the Romantic Era.
After good food and our award ceremony, we still had time for a few games before saying goodbye. Below I've included some photos from our time together. Thanks to Liz Johnson for helping me out with the photos!
Spring Recital Photos and Video
Students, I was so proud of all your performances at our recital. You worked hard and it was a joy to sit and listen to you perform. You have been a joy to my heart this year! Here is a picture of the studio and another of me with seniors Makayla and Anna. I will miss you! Week of May 5th
SPRING RECITAL WEEK:
This Thursday, May 8th at 7:00 pm, is our end of the year recital. This recital is held at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Mounds View. The students have worked very hard to prepare pieces to play for you. All family and friends are invited to attend. A light dessert reception will follow the recital. Directions for the church are at this link:
If you have further questions, please email or call me. I look forward to seeing each of you and expressing my gratitude for allowing me the privilege of teaching your kids! See you Thursday!
All students will have their normal private lessons with me this week.
FINAL Music Labs This Week
Lesson Cancellations: There is an opening on Monday, at 3:45 pm.
MISTERIOSO MANSION
Our game has ended, and now the students have all the clue and suspect cards in their hands (well, hopefully in their pencil pouch!) Now they must answer our mystery questions:
- Who is our mystery musician?
- What time period did he live in?
- What is the name of our mystery song?
- Who stole the mystery song?
- Why did they steal it?
- Where did they hide the music?
All students who solve the mystery will recieve an award at our Group Lessons the week of May 12th. Parents have permission to help their students solve the mystery. Students have permission to ask me if they get stuck. I want everyone to succeed!
NEXT WEEK IS GROUP LESSON/AWARDS WEEK.
NEXT WEEK IS GROUP LESSON/AWARDS WEEK.
WINDING DOWN - Week of April 28th
We are less than 2 weeks away from our 2014 Spring Recital. It has been a great year. Despite the hard long cold winter weather, the students have faithfully shown up for lessons and warmed my heart! Thank you for the honor of teaching your students!
There are some final detail that need to be attended to.
- Recital Information was mailed out last week and each of you should have received that information by now. If you have not received a packet, please call or email me so I can send you the needed information. Recital is Thursday, May 8th; 7:00 pm at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Mounds View.
- Misterioso Mansion mystery is drawing to a close. All students should work on solving their mystery clues and finding out who the culprit was that stole the music (questions being solved are at the front of their assignment planners). If you have questions or feel stuck, again, please email or call me for help.
- Group Lessons/Awards will be the week of May 12th. Look for an email this week of sign up options.
- FINAL BILLINGS were sent out last week with recital information. Final payments are appreciated by May 15th. Thank you for your promptness in payments this year!
- SUMMER LESSONS: I will be doing summer lessons and a sign up sheet has been sent out. Morning or afternoon slots are available.
Lessons cancellations: This week and next week, I have a Monday at 3:45 open slot
NO MUSIC LABS THIS WEEK
Week of April 21st
We have only 3 weeks until our spring recital on May 8th, at Bethlehem Baptist Church, in Mounds View. I am so grateful for my church's willingness to give us such a beautiful place to hold our recital! The students are doing a great job in working hard on their pieces. This will be a wonderful way to celebrate all their hard work this year.
THIS IS A MUSIC LAB WEEK: After this week, there is only one more lab left. My focus on these 2 lab times is testing and evaluation. This will help me know how students progressed in their music theory studies and will help me set the course for the next year in what and how I do computer labs. Thank you for your help in all of this
MISTERIOS MANSION:
By now, the students should have a couple of clues in their hands that give them answers to part of our mystery. They should know that they are finding out the name of our mystery composer, the title of our mystery song, who stole the song and why they stole it! I will try to help out students, but some may still need parental help to solve the mystery.
NO LESSON CANCELLATIONS AT THIS TIME
Week of April 14th
TUITION REMINDER: This month is your final tuition payment for our 2013-14 Piano Year. April's payment will cover April and May's piano lessons. I will be sending a final statement out for any remaining book fees owed. Thank you for your prompt payments throughout the year!
LESSON CANCELLATIONS: I am not aware of any cancellations at this point. Continue to check here for any openings.
NO MUSIC LABS THIS WEEK
MISTERIOSO MANSION: We are in the final stretch to solve our musical mystery. These last few clue cards will provide many needed answers. Please help your students to solve this mystery so they can earn the end of the year reward! Let me know if I can help
Week of April 7th
Spring has arrived! Anybody else jumping up down like me! It has been a long grueling winter, but I think we're over the glacier now!
No Lesson Cancellations known at this time
THIS IS A MUSIC LAB WEEK so plan for the extra time.
GROUP LESSONS last week were a blast! We played a musical version of "Minute to Win It" games to review musical concepts that students have been working on all week. This game will definitely reappears again! Below are a couple of snapshots of the craziness! Thanks to Liz Johnson who helped me get a few photos! I didn't get the 2nd group because I forgot. Anyone who wants to help take photos is always appreciated! Sorry group #2
The favorite game BY FAR was "Whole Note Chomp"! Messy but fun to be the first to eat your whole note! Preston excelled at "Suck It Up" - Interval identification!
Week of March 25th
No Music Labs This Week
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations as of today
Group Lessons: Group lessons will be held March 31st and April 1st (really! Its not a joke!) Look for an email listing group lesson sign up options.
Misterioso Mansion: Many of the kids have reached some of the final clues for our mystery game. They should be able to identify the first name of the mystery composer, what country he is from and part of the title of the mystery song. There has also been some information given on the clue cards that will help students identify the nasty culprit that stole the song! Though I try to help students solve their clue cards, it is VERY helpful if you can work with your student towards the solutions.
Week of March 17th
Happy St Patrick's Day! I'm a little late in posting, but here is this week's calendar schedule
THIS IS A MUSIC LAB WEEK
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations known at this point
Week of March 3rd
THIS IS A MUSIC LAB WEEK
Lesson Cancellation: Beginning this week, my Monday 2:30 pm slot has become available. No other cancellations or changes at this time
SPRING BREAK REMINDER: Next week (March 10th - 15th) is my studio spring break. There will be no lessons that week. Lessons will resume on Monday, March 17th
Week of February 24th
Final week of February and "its beginning to look a lot like Christmas!" Whew! What a winter! But we are still "plowing away" in piano.
LESSON CANCELLATIONS One cancellation for today at 4:00 pm. Thank you for helping each other out by swapping out lesson times. That is often the best way to accomodate those inevitable conflicts that happen in your busy schedules.
MISTERIOSO MANSION
LOOKING AHEAD: Spring is coming! And so is my spring break, which is scheduled for the week of March 10th. No lessons will be given that week. March 31st and April 1st is our next Group Lessons. I will send an email out later with sign up times.
Week of February 17th
Though many schools are off today, my normal teaching schedule will be in place.
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations this week.
Misterioso Mansion: On schedule and no news to report
This week is amazingly routine. No cancellations due to weather, illness, etc. Enjoy the warm weather and hopefully, quiet week!
Week of February 10th
For the first time since DECEMBER, we will have a normal teaching schedule. No school closings due to cold weather. No holidays. Hopefully no illnesses!
TECHNIQUE ASSIGNMENTS: Last week at Group Lessons, we focused in on reviewing basic piano techniques and began working on new techniques for the hand. Beginning this week, every student will have exercises that will be part of their weekly assignments that they should practice daily. I'm after getting those pesky 5th finger abuses........."karate chop pinkie", "pancake pinkie" and "avoid using the pinkie" are common practices for many! Also, there will be finger strengthening exercises for them to do to help build muscles, yes muscles, in those fingers!
MISTERIOSO MANSION: I will be taking a couple of minutes with each lesson to help make sure the kids have solved important clues in order to find out who our mystery composer is! Make sure all clue cards are in their binders! Thanks!THIS IS A MUSIC LAB WEEK. PLAN ACCORDINGLY.
Week of February 2nd
Group Lesson Week: Instead of our normal lesson schedule, this week I will be holding group lessons. Check your email for the times. Each session will be one hour in length. I will be working on ear training within context of a piece of music, music analysis and technique. Of course, as always we will throw in a game or two!
Misterioso Mansion:
Each student is to copy any music that is on their clue cards onto the manuscript paper included in the assignment book. This song is one of the mysteries they are to solve and it will also help them solve the mystery composer's name. I have been helping younger students with this task at lessons. We also will begin to start sifting through suspect cards to see who stole the music and why! Keep track of those suspects! Is it Chef Chopin? Or Mrs. Brillante? Thanks for your help in all of this!
Week of January 27th
Another Cold Snap, More School Closings!
By now we should have a rhythm going! I will be teaching my normal schedule tomorrow, but due to the cold windy weather, the following times are available during the day tomorrow: Morning 11:00, 11:30; afternoon 12:30, 1:00, 1:30, 2:00
If interested in any of those slots, email me. It will be first come first serve basis.
HEALTH UPDATES: Recently there has been a significant increase of sickness in the studio. I want you to know that I try hard to keep my piano as clean as I possibly can. Encourage your kids to wash hands after they play the pianos as well as before to help the friendly sharing of all those germs! As stated in my policy sheet, I will do make up lessons for illness. If I have not done that with anyone, please make sure that I work with you to find a times that is good for your family and myself
NO MUSIC LABS THIS WEEK
National Federation Of Music Clubs competition is this coming Saturday, February 1st at Coon Rapids Methodist Church. Ten of my students will be participating in this event. I am hugely proud of each of them as they have worked so hard towards this goal. I am confident of their ability to perform well as they play 2 memorized pieces.
Presbyterian Homes Recital this year will be for Festival (NFMC) students only. The recital will be held at Lake Joahnna Shores Presbyterian Homes in Arden Hills at 6:30 pm. This newly renovated facility provides a beautiful place for the students to perform their pieces. This year they will be playing on a Steinway grand in the Village Court, a special treat for all of us!Week of January 20th
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations this week
MUSIC LAB WEEK
Misterioso Mansion:
Students are doing fabulously in their practice. As many of them have accumulated 7 or 8 clues, it would be wonderful if you could help them in any way that is needed. Particularly hard for younger students is the copying of the music into their planners. Each week I try to help them with pieces of clues, but its great if you can assist me!
Week of January 13th
Lesson Cancellations: This week, I have an opening on Tuesday at 4:45 (either 30 min or 45 min lesson). My Wednesday 3:30 pm open slot is filled for this week.
MUSIC LAB WEEK: Everyone has a lab this week. Thirty minute lessons will have a 30 minute lab, 45 minute lessons will have 15 minute lab. If you do not remember your child's lab times (they are either before or after their lesson), please email me and I'll give you that information
Presbyterian Home Recital: This year, due to the earlier piano competition dates, we will be doing our Pres Home Recital on January 30th at 6:30 pm. Because of this earlier date, only the students in the piano competition will be ready to play. I am so sad that not all students will be able to do this, as it is, hands down, my favorite recital. But it felt unfair to the other students who would have had very little time to get something ready.
For NFMC students, the recital is held at Lake Johanna Shores Presbyterian Homes in Arden Hills. This is where we have been each time. This year the music therapist told me they have moved the STEINWAY piano into that area, so we will have a wonderful piano to play your pieces on!
MISTERIOSO MANSION: Within the next month, students should begin to have a few answers to the mystery solved IF they've solved the clues. I'll try to take a few minutes each lesson to help, but greatly appreciate your help with this as well.
Happy New Year! Welcome Back! Week of January 6th
WEATHER ALERT: Schools have been cancelled for Monday of this week. After listening to the forecast, I have decided to go ahead with lessons for Monday as scheduled. However, I completely understand if some of you feel uncomfortable with going out in the wind and cold. I am willing to make accomodations for make up lessons on Thursday, when I hope the weather will be warmer!! If you would like to make that switch, give me at call (763-862-9632) or email me (dawnharp55@yahoo.com).
MUSIC LABS: Due to the severe cold weather, I will be moving computer labs to next week.
TUITION REMINDER: Tuition is due on the 10th of January. Due to weather, you may bring a check the following week with no late fee.
Week of December 9th
Student Christmas Recital: There are no private lessons for beginners through Grade 8. On Tuesday, December 10th at 5 pm, students from beginner through Grade 8th will come to my house to play some favorite Christmas music, enjoy games and yummy treats. This will be the final week celebration before our Christmas Break. This recital is for students only, but we occasionally sneak in a parent or two! Our recital will end at 6:30 pm.
High Schoolers: I will be doing normal private lessons for all high schoolers this week.
Lessons Resume: I will resume the normal lesson schedule the week of January 6th.
Have a wonderful Christmas season. May it fill your lives with beautiful memories of special friends and family and the true joy and peace given to us through the birth of Jesus Christ. See you in January!
Week of December 2nd
Welcome December. Fasten your seat belts as we zoom through this very busy month.
MUSIC LABS THIS WEEK
Lesson Cancellations: No open slots this week.
Christmas Recital: Tuesday, December 10th from 5:00 - 6:30 pm. Further details coming in the mail this week.
Misterioso Manor:
Last week at Group Lessons, I worked with the kids on the solutions to the mystery. Everyone should be up to date on their solutions. There is a reward for students solving the mystery by the end of the year, and its okay if they seek your help on clues that are difficult or stumping them. Some of the clues require writing music in their book which can be hard. Its not cheating to help them copy or to find creative ways to get that music in their notebooks!
Week of November 25th
Group Lessons this week. Students should bring their binder, assignment planner and all clue cards they've collected. Regular piano lessons resume next week.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Week of November 18th
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations at this time
Music Lab Week
Misterioso Manor:
Students are progressing through the manor. As they enter each room, they receive a clue card which they need to solve and then enter the solution into their assignment planners on the "Solution Page". We will be looking at the solutions at the next group lesson, but it would be great if you could help them with those solutions before that time. Thanks!
Week of November 11th
Lesson Cancellations: No cancellations as of today (Monday AM)
No Music Labs This Week
Misterioso Manor:
The students are doing a great job traveling through our manor. Feel free to either help the students solve the clues if they are stuck. We will be going through the clues at our next group lesson at the end of the month.
Week of November 4th
I think winter is coming this week! I'm not looking forward to it, but it does give me the chance to remind you of weather policy. If it looks like the weather is hazardous to driving and getting to lessons safely, I will send out an email to let you know that I will cancel lessons for that day or part of that day. If you do not get that email I will be doing lessons. Lessons cancelled due to weather will be made up.
MakeUp Lessons: Unfortunately, this year has been filled with colds and fever from the outset! I hope things will go uphill from here, but you never know. I want to remind everyone concerning my policy for makeup lessons. If your child is ill, I will arrange a make up lesson for that missed time. If your student misses lessons due to sports, concerts, vacations, etc., I do not do make up lessons. However, because I know these events will occur, I provide a Swap List Schedule in each student's binder. That swap list gives you information on when other people have lessons. On the back of that sheet is listed contact information which is provided so you may call other families and try to arrange a "lesson swap" so you do not have to forfeit the lesson. In the past people have been so gracious to try and accommodate these inevitable conflicts and I am confident that this will continue. I do not arrange swaps. But, if I have cancellations for the week I post them on this blog, and you are welcome to contact me and arrange for your student to take that time. Also, if there is the word "open" on the swap schedule, you are welcome to call and have your student take that time. Please call, as someone may have already taken that time. Watch for new swap schedule to be put in your student's binder this week.
Lesson Cancellations: I have two cancellations this week on Monday at 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm.
Music Lab Week Allow the extra time at lessons this week.
Week of October 28th
Whew! Its been a busy couple of weeks in the studio, but its been so much fun! Below are some of the pictures showing what we've been doing. First, Group Lessons, where we incorporate peers into the learning of music:
Next, was our very fun Halloween Recital Party!
Its been a great couple of weeks! Thanks for helping these events come together. Now on we go towards Thanksgiving and Christmas!
Lesson Cancellations: My Wednesday 2:45 slot has been taken for this week. Other than this, I don't know of any other cancellations or open spots.
No Music Labs This Week
Misterioso Mansion
All the students have visited 3 or 4 rooms of our mansion. Check to make sure that students have solved the clues they receive when they arrive in a room. Some of them may need your help to solve each clue, which is fine. Please do help as needed! Group lessons gave them extra opportunities to move more spaces. There will be opportunities at other times to earn moves on the game board.
Week of October 21st
Lesson Cancellations: There are 2 cancellations on Tuesday night. I now have open slots from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm. Call if you would like to grab one of those slots.
Music Labs This Week Add an extra half hour to your student's lesson time (as previously assigned)
Misterioso Manor:
New! The highschoolers don't want to be left out of the game, so I've added an "older" addition to the game board. Highschoolers will be finding out the identity of the mystery pianists. More info at their lessons. Away we go guys!Halloween Recital Party
Saturday, October 26th
10:00 - 11:30 am
Grades K - 5th
Mrs. Onufrock's Home
Bring your Halloween music and wear a costume!
Spooky snacks provided!
Week of October 7th
Lesson Cancellations: No lesson cancellations at this time.
Music Lab: There are music labs this week, so allow the extra time
Group Lessons: Group lessons will be next week. Watch your emails for sign up information.
Misterioso Manor:
Everything is going smoothly as the students maneuver through the mansion. They are doing a great job practicing! If they've received Clue Card #1, they should be able to solve one of the mysteries on their solution page in their assignment planner
Week Of September 30
Lesson Cancellation: There is an opening on Monday at 2:45 for either a 30 min or 45 minute lesson. Wednesday at 2:45 pm is taken this week.
Music Lab: NO music labs this week
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Misterioso Manor:
More Goals & Rules of the Game: In order to receive the prize at the end of the year, students must answer the following questions:
1. Who is the mystery composer?
2. What is the mystery song?
3. When in time was the song composed?
4. Who stole the song
5. Why did they steal the song?
6. What room did they hide the song in?
For each room the students enter, they will receive one clue card with a clue on the back that they need to solve. (Parents, if your children are younger, you may help them with the solution. Its not cheating!) If students land on or pass over a space with a "?", they will receive a suspect card.
Week of September 23
Lesson Cancellation: One opening on Wednesday at 4:15 (either 30 minute or 45 minute lesson).
Music Lab: This week is computer lab week.
High School Theory Test: As promised, this next week high school students will be taking a theory test. All needed study material was sent home with them 2 weeks ago. I expect most of this test to be relatively easy for them. However, I'm sure there will be a couple of segments that will be tough. In order for them to progress to the next level, they must get 90% or higher in each section. Only areas that did not make the needed score will be retested. Results will be emailed to parents & to the student (if I have their email)
Parents, remember to sign assignment sheets of students through the age of 12 so they could move around the "Manor"!
Week of September 16, 2013
This week we begin our private lesson schedule. Remember this week is also Music Lab Week. As we begin a new year, please call or email with any concerns or questions at any time. I will respond as soon as I am able.
Misterioso Manor
To help you understand our new incentive program, Misterioso Manor, I have listed some of the rules for you below. It is important that you help your students follow these rules each week
1). In order for students to be able to move on the gameboard they have to:
- Have their assignment sheets signed by parent or guardian (this applies through age 12. If they are 13 years old, they do NOT need to have their sheets signed)
- Have all their music books, planner, etc with them at the lesson.
Lesson Cancellations
I am pleased to say that everyone is healthy and will be at their lessons this week! May the year be full of good health for all of you!!
Week of Sept 9, 2013
Welcome back to piano! It has been a total delight to see all the faces of my students again. I realize how much I've missed them and how blessed I am to have them in my life! Thanks for entrusting their music education to me.
Group lessons usher us into our new year, introducing our new incentive program, Misterioso Mansion, and explaining how the program works. Students through 8th grade will take part in the incentive program. The high school age students will be focusing more on their repertoire and theory skills, but not participating in the incentive program. Call me for any questions.
Swap List will be given within the next 2 weeks, once the schedules are settled. Until then, call me with any conflicts and I will give suggestions on whom you might contact for any swaps.
Week of April 29th
Final post of April - wow! The year has zipped by! I know life gets busy at this time of the year, so I do try and keep my extra rehearsal requests to a minimum. However, there are a few rehearsals that are needed. The main rehearsal to remember is the following group rehearsal being held:
Wednesday, May 8th; 6:15 - 7:00 pm
Please make this a priority. It is the only rehearsal scheduled to perform our full studio recital piece.
Labs: No labs this week. Final labs for the year will be next week, May 6th - 9th.
Cancellations: One cancellation of this date for Tuesday, April 30th, at 7:15 pm.
Week of April 15th
I can't believe I'm saying this, but we have 3 weeks left of private lessons followed by one week of group lessons to finish off this year. I think its especially hard to believe because we are still shoveling our sidewalks, which makes us think its January or February, not the end of April!!
Labs: We do have labs again this week. There will be no labs next week (week of April 29th)
Recital: I have mailed a letter to each of you today with information regarding our upcoming recital on Thursday, May 9th. Call if you have questions Included is the final billing for any miscellaneous music or other charges. Remember, your April tuition payment also covers May lessons.
Cancellations: No cancellations of lessons at this time.
Final City Photos: We won't have time to do a full city photo discovery. However, I am putting up 2 photo clues this week. For those students who can figure out the city and move their token to that city, I will have a small reward for them! Here are the photos:
Week of April 8th
Spring breaks are done and we now will be pushing towards the final spring recital on May 9th. Look on the blog calendar for more information, though I will also be sending out more information in a week or so. Whew! The years always fly by!
Labs: This month, due to a missed week in March, we will be holding labs each week in April. So labs will be the weeks of April 8th, April 15th, and April 22th. A few of you were able to have 2 labs in March, so you can opt out of doing the 3 weeks if you want. I'll plan 3 weeks for all.
Group Lessons: Group lesson the week of March 25th were fabulous!! I can't wait for you to hear the end product of what we worked on at our spring recital. The kids were able to accomplish far more than I expected and we didn't want to stop doing what we were doing!
Ensemble Rehearsals: We will be doing one rehearsal with the entire studio on a Saturday before recital. It will be kept as brief as possible - hopefully no more than 30 minutes. I will be sending an email to do some date checks once I know when the church will be open and available. Other smaller ensembles will also be contacted to do rehearsals here at my house.
Cancellations: As of today, I have no cancellations, but many of you have been using the swap list. Thank you for being so flexible and willing to work with other families who run into unavoidable conflicts that happen within busy family schedules.
City Photos: Ok, I missed posting last week's photo, so I will extend an extra week so students can go covert and earn extra points. Here are the final 2 photo clues. Only one family so far has got it figured out. What is this city?
Many throng to Juliet's wall
Hoping that in love they will fall.
The second largest of its kind
Sets the stage for operas fine.
Week of March 18th
Welcome back to all the travelers. The weather will give all the sunbirds a harsh reality check! But isn't beautiful!
Lab Week: This is a lab week for all students. Remember, 30 minute lessons receive a 30 minute lab, while 45 minute lessons will receive 15 min lab time. Due to difficulty in my ability to prep labs the week of March 4th, I am going to be doing labs for the 3 weeks we have lessons in April (Week of April 8th, April 15th, & April 22nd)
Group Lessons: Groups lessons will be held the week of March 25th. An email will be sent with information on times. As we will be working on a ensemble that will be performed for spring recital, please make every effort to have your student attend group lessons. Participation in the ensemble hinges on their attendance.
Cancellations: I have one cancellation at this time which is on Monday at 7:45 pm.
City Photo: Ok kids! What is the city? These next clues should make naming the city extremely easy if you do a little google work!
A concert to be held right here,
in Italia's northern sphere.
Week of March 11th
For many students, this week is spring break! I am jealous for those of you that are heading to warmer climates. Bring spring back home with you!
This weeks clue, which is #3
Welcome March!
Last week was a busy week as many students prepared to play for National Federation of Music Clubs Piano Evaluations on Saturday, March 2nd. I was very proud of all the students, as they played so beautifully and showed themselves to be first class musicians. Congratulations to Joshua, Elizabeth, Kaitlyn Nordling, Makayla, Rose, Anna V., Caleb V., Kathryn, Mitchell P. and Mitchell Z! You guys were amazing and brought joy once again to me! I hope many more will participate next year
Cancellations: No cancellations, but lots of swaps this week! Thank you for notifying me when you do swap lessons.
New City Photo #2
Have you figured out where we are?
Week of February 25th
Good morning everyone! I missed updating last week and it was a great week. My students performed beautifully for the residents at Johanna Shores Presbyterian Homes in Arden Hills. The facility offered us a beautiful space in which to perform, the residents were warm and engaging and the kids all played fantastic! Thank you for giving such a wonderful gift to these residents at Johanna Shores
This week is National Federation of Music Clubs Piano Festival!! After weeks of preparation it is here! Ten students have been working long and hard for weeks to perfect 2 pieces of music to be performed memorized in front of a judge and evaluated by that judge. I am so proud of these kids! Thanks for all your dedicated hard work towards this. I encourage more students to try this next year!
Cancellations: This week I have one cancellation on Monday, February 25th, at 4:15 pm.
New City This Week. Hmmmmmmmmm...where will I take you in Italy? North? South? On an island? The photo below is your first clue.
Week of February 11th
I have one lesson cancellation today for a 30 minute slot at 6:30 pm. Give me a call if you would like to grab that slot. Thursday make up slots are filled. If you have been ill and have not been scheduled for a make up lesson, please talk to me. (Remember that make up lessons are available only for illness or a family emergency.) For other conflicts, use the swap list to make arrangements for inevitable conflicts.
This is the final week for our Italian Mystery City. If you haven't figured it out yet, this week's clue will easily reveal the city. Help you student if they're stuck!
Welcome February!
January is gone and we usher in February which means more light!!! This has been a good year for the students in my studio with minimum illness. As of today, I have no cancellations. I hope everybody continues to enjoy good health. Again, remind them to wash hands when they come so germ spreading is kept to a minimum.
Students in the Festival: There are 3 weeks to our Presbyterian Home Recital where you will play one of your pieces and 4 weeks to the actual Festival. Keep practicing smart! Work those trouble spots, be consistent in daily practice and call if you need help!
Mystery City: MANY students have discovered the mystery city and have gone covert (meaning they earn double coins!) However, the students are also playing the game, which means some people have been turned back over and they'll need to travel back to the mystery city to get their covert status reinstated.
For those of you who are still working on what the city is, this week's clue should make it easy!
Week of January 28, 2013
This is lab week for all the students, so they will be staying longer for their lessons. As of today, there are no cancellations for the week.
Week #4 of our Italian Mystery City! Come on students....are you stumped? Here is clue #4
Week of January 21, 2013
Today we are celebrating the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. Though most schools are closed today (Monday), I will still be teaching my normal lesson schedule. There are no cancellations as of yet for this week.
The flu season is upon us, so I am asking everyone to wash hands thoroughly before playing any of the studio pianos. I know the keyboard could be an effective germ carrier and I want to avoid that as much as possible! Thanks!
Check the studio calendar for updated information. I have confirmed the February recital which will be held at Johanna Shores Presbyterian Homes in Arden Hills. More information will be coming shortly
Week #3 of our Italian Mystery City. Anybody guessing! Also, I'm encouraging kids to spend their coins and travel Italy!
Week of January 14, 2013
I have one lesson cancellation today (Monday, Jan. 14th) at 4:15 to 5:00 pm. Call if you would like to grab that spot. Thursday slots are full, unless you are able to come before 3:45 pm on Thursday.
Week #2 of Italian Mystery city. One student guessed correctly last week! Can you believe it? So they are off and running towards covert status and there are still 5 weeks left! They'll be able to accumulate a lot of challenge coins!
Clue #2:
Week of January 6, 2013
Welcome back students! I hope each of you had a rest-filled Christmas season and time away from normal activities. I look forward to seeing each of you
Normal private lesson schedule resumes this week. Look in your student's binder to see the newly updated lesson schedule/swap list.
We start a new Italian City this week! Below is the first photo clue....................
Happy New Year!
Week of December 3rd
Merry Christmas to each of you! We are finishing off our last 2 weeks of piano for 2012. Next week is our annual student Christmas recitals. This year we will have our normal student Christmas recital at my house for the younger kids on Tuesday, December 11th from 5 to 6 pm. Upper level students will be doing a concert for residents at Oakcrest Senior Community in Spring Lake Park on Wednesday, December 12th at 6 pm. Each piano family should have received information concerning the recital. If you have not received any communication from me, please email or call me.
Final photos for our Mystery City. Some, but not all students, have discovered the city. Has your student been able to find the city?
Week of November 19th
Due to the Thanksgiving holiday break, we will be doing group lessons on Monday, November 19th and Tuesday, November 20th. Contact me if you've not yet signed up for lessons. Otherwise,
Happy Thanksgiving!
Week of November 12th
No lesson cancellations this week, and due to a family event, this Thursday's slots are filled. If you run into conflicts, look at the swap list for possible switches and contact those families. A new updated swap list, dated October 31st, should be in your child's folder. If you don't have one, I have extras in the studio.
This is week #3 of this month's mystery Italian city. Some thought they knew the answer last week, but alas they weren't quite right! This week's clue should help everyone!
Week of November 5th
Whew! The weeks are flying by! Here we are in November already and in the 2nd week of our mystery city. This week's clue should help students travel to the new location! After some difficulty loading the photo, here it is!
Week of October 29th
The following lesson has been cancelled for this week:
Monday: 2:45 - 3:45
Halloween Recital
This past Saturday was our first Halloween Recital. Kids dressed in costumes and all came to play Fall themed songs for peers do a craft, play games and enjoy "Mozart's Bubbling Brew"! I was thrilled that the piano studio of Diane Thompson, Andover, was able to come and join my students in this recital. It was a fun morning. Below are pictures from the event
Now.......Florence is gone and a new city is to be discovered!
All covert status has been removed and students are now on to a new city! Hmmm............. First clue is on the door in the studio and below.
The following lesson has been cancelled for this week:
Monday: 7:00 - 7:45 pm
This is the final week of our "Mystery City". Most students have figured out the city, unscrambled the musician's name along with given me some facts on that musician and, therefore, are now earning double coins. Good job!
GROUP LESSONS
This past week in our group lessons, we focused on rhythm exercises. I had so much fun as I watched the upper level students help the younger level students understand and engage in the importance of steady beat, rests, holding notes for their full value, etc. Thanks to everyone for making this such a fun lesson!
Week of October 8th
No cancellations this week. If you have a conflict, there is an updated swap list in your student's folder.
Most students have discovered the mystery city and many are "covert" (earning double coins!) Parents, you may help your younger students discover the city if they have not done so already. Its not cheating! Really!
Group Lesson Times:
Monday: 5:00 - 6:00 pm (primer & level 1)
6:30 - 7:30 (all levels)
Tuesday: 4:30 - 5:30 (all levels)
6:30 - 7:30 (all levels)
Week of October 1st
This week, I have filled all open lesson slots with new students. Welcome to Ethan, Caleb, Lexi and Alesha! Use swap lists for any conflicts that you may have due to sports, band, etc.
Look down the River Arno,
flanked by aged homes,
Where artists great of yesteryear
were often know to roam.
Many of the students have figured out the city and a few have gone covert, earning double the coins! Good job! Keep going!
Week of September 24th
Behold the duomo at the center of town
A marvelous place of great renown
The following lessons are available this week:
Monday:
5:00 pm (30 min lesson) cancellation for this week
6:00 pm (30 min lesson)
7:00 pm ( 30 or 45 min lesson) cancellation for this week
Tuesday:
3:00 pm
5:15 pm
Week of September 17th
Open Lesson Slots:
Monday: 6:00 pm (30 min)
Tuesday: 3:00 pm, 3:30 pm & 5:15 pm
Photo Clue #2
Musicians, though silent, are everywhere
embedded in glorious archictecture!
Week of September 10th
This Year's Incentive Program: Italian Intrigue!
Last week at our Group Lessons, I unveiled this year's incentive program - Italian Intrigue. I am very excited about this year's program as it will incorporate our normal music studies, but also will encourage to students to learn more of our musical language (Italian), make a few choices about what they want to pursue in their studies, and play a little "scavenger" game through the year which will acquaint them with the geography of Italy. Along the way, they will choose challenges and earn "Conquest Coins" towards a prize at the end of the year. I think we're going to have a lot of fun!
Take a peek at your student's binders or drop by to see what we'll be doing this year. You are always welcome!
Photo Clue # 1
Photo Clue # 1
Riddle:
"On this famous bridge he sits;
Playing favorite songs and hits."
Playing favorite songs and hits."
Open Lesson Slots as of September 10, 2012:
Monday: 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 3:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:15 pm
If you want to use one of these open slots for any lesson conflicts, feel free to do so, but please call to make sure they are still available.
This week we will kick off our Fall 2012 season with Group Lessons where I will introduce this year's incentive program and explain how its works, introduce the students to the music lab and how to sign in to the different programs and will give out their 1st week's assignment. Group times are listed below. If you don't remember your time, give me a call or email me.
Group Lesson Dates & Times:
Tuesday, September 4th: 4:15 - 5:15 pm
5:15 - 6:15 pm
Wednesday, September 5th: 4:45 pm - 5:45 pm
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Current Openings:
By now, all of you should have received your lesson notification letter. The following slots are currently still open, so should you have a conflict, you are welcome to use any of the following to help out with the many schedule demands you face. Please call to confirm that these are still available. I will update each week and will also post if there are cancellations due to illness, etc.
Monday:
4:30 pm - 30 minute slot
Tuesday:
3:00 pm
3:30 pm - 30 minute slot
5:15 pm
5:45 pm
Wednesday:
3:00 pm
3:30 pm
4:00 pm
Thursday:
3:00 pm
3:30 pm - 30 minute slot
4:30 pm
5:00 pm
5:30 pm
Also, if you are homeschooling, I am available to teach during early afternoons on any of the days that I teach regular lessons.
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