Sara Rasmussen's Piano Studio

Wednesday, August 22, 2018 by Sara Rasmussen | Uncategorized

Welcome back, students!

It's always a bitter-sweet time in the fall, when we are sad to see the summer go; but also happy to have a routine. At least that is how we are feeling at my house this week. I hope all my existing students are excited to get back to their lessons--I know I am excited to see you all and hear all the fun things you did over your summer. To my new students- I hope you are excited to begin this journey with me and are ready to work hard and have fun!

It's been a tradition with me (or maybe just my personality) over the years that I don't like to keep my piano studio stagnant. Each year I try to incorporate something new, whether it be new music, new games, new sticker, new goals, whatever it is. I believe that a good teacher, especially piano teacher, never quits learning and applying new things. So, this year is no different.

The first new thing in our studio this year, is a quarterly group theory class. Theory is the biggest asset any musician has. It is what joins all the instruments together. So, in order for me to properly train my musicians to someday spread their wings to any other instrument, theory needs to be a priority. So, we will be starting at the basics this year, so to some it might be a severe review, but to others it might be a great push to finally iron out some kinks in their progression. We will play games, compose music, and learn together- each student being able to shine and learn at the same time. I hope you will all take these opportunities to jump in to our theory classes. 

Second, as a music teacher, there are many avenues out there to help my studio and my students become the best they can be. Federation is one of those programs. This program is through the Utah Federation of Music Clubs. I have decided to jump in and see where this can take my students this year. More information will come to explain this program more. 

Don't forget that when you come to lessons next week, those that have completed my Summer Piano Challenge, bring back your form to receive your reward! I hope you found this challenge to help keep you interested through the summer, while also keeping you creative!

Anyway, I can't wait to see you all in a few days and get going on this awesome year!!

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Tuesday, May 1, 2018 by Sara Rasmussen | Uncategorized

Parents and Students: MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS!

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Tuesday, May 1, 2018 by Sara Rasmussen | Uncategorized

Happy May Day Parents and Students!

We are quickly approaching the end of the school year as well as the end of our piano season. It has been so fun to teach your awesome kids! They have made some great progress this season, and I hope they will continue to play the piano through the summer months. As for the remainder of the season, here’s the low-down:

Piano Recital: We are in full “recital prep” mode. Which means that we do not continue in our method books, so that we can give all our focus and effort to our recital pieces. Each student has been assigned 2 recital songs to prepare, memorize and perform. Parents- PLEASE give extra assistance and encouragement to your students during this time. It can prove to be quite stressful and difficult for each student. If you need help at home, please let me know- I have tips and tricks!!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Invite friends and family! Our Spring Performance Recital will be held on Thursday, May 24 @ 7 p.m. at the LDS Church (Primary Room) on 3548 MacGregor Lane, Saratoga Springs. All performers are to wear their Sunday best! Light refreshments will be served afterwards. 

During our recital prep, I like to give all my studio a challenge to keep things fun and also help motivate them to rehearse their pieces more fully. This challenge is based on steps to preparing their recital pieces. Each week they accomplish those goals, they will receive a sticker. The first student who prepares and memorizes their songs will receive a grand prize of a gift basket at the recital. All students will receive a gift from me at the recital- they deserve it! So, please parents, encourage your students to get practicing!!

LAST WEEK OF LESSONS: The week of our recital, May 22-24, will be our last week of lessons. Each student will come prepared to finish up any last minute recital prep. PARENTS: please make sure that all tuition is up to date and personal information (email addresses) are correct this week. I will use these emails for correspondence in July for scheduling for the next season of piano lessons. 

SUMMER TIME: I have found that it is not productive for me to teach during the summer months, due to family vacations and other changes in schedules- so I am planning on taking the summer months (June, July and 1/2 of August) off. I will be handing out some theory packets and practice games for each student to use during the summer months to keep up with their progress. I will be contacting all my existing students in July via email to schedule the fall lessons. ALL EXISTING STUDENTS GET FIRST DIBS ON DATES AND TIMES! After that, I will fill my time slots with new students. Please make sure you schedule your lessons within the time frame given. 

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