Socialization -- Musically Speaking

We just finished out our week of Idaho Suzuki Institute. This year we opted to participate very minimally by only participating in two afternoon classes. This is our 6th Suzuki Institute experience and we were all happy with the lessons learned, friendships made, and music played in spite of our abbreviated participation.

Isabelle took an elementary orchestra class with a fabulous local music teacher -- Debbie Hynes. In this class she learned a short little "circus symphony", had to sight read music and its corresponding rhythm, and learned to play with a group which wasn't necessarily playing the same notes that she was.

Josiah took an advanced Chamber Group class which involved learning a complicate song to prepare for an eventual performance on Thursday evening. His group was made of boys all within his age range which was a great experience for him. Although rhythmically challenged, Josiah played excellently and handled this new experience with maturity and a good attitude.

Isabelle also had the opportunity to take a Master Class with another local Suzuki teacher -- Katy Green. This is essentially where your student has one on one instruction from another instructor -- always a great experience for a student to hear new points of view and gain new perspective. There was one other student (a violist) in her master class, so Isabelle received nearly 30 minutes of instruction each day!

The final day, all of the chamber groups and orchestras (from beginning to advanced) played for an evening concert. Josiah's group (they named themselves the "Morning Guys") played beautifully. Josiah refused to wear a bow tie however, in spite of the peer pressure to do so! Oh well -- he's so rarely strong willed, I decided he could wear what he wanted!

Isabelle made it through the performance with a smile on her face. Her feet didn't touch the floor. I'm really glad she had on shorts underneath the skirt!! : )

Josiah played in the advanced orchestra which played AMAZINGLY!! It was incredible to hear what they were able to pull together in just 4 days of practicing. They played 3 songs from varying era's of history (the theme of the concert was "From Bach to Rock"). The Irish dance song they played was incredible and had the audience clapping and wanting to get up and do a jig! I'm always thankful for these experiences throughout the year where the kids have opportunities to use their musical talents and abilities in meaningful ways!

For more information on Idaho Suzuki Institute (for violin, viola, cello, piano, and flute), go to www.IdahoSuzuki.org.