About arioso7: Shirley Kirsten
Private piano teacher, recording artist, composer, piano finder, freelance writer, film maker, story teller: Grad of the NYC HS of Performing Arts, Oberlin Conservatory, NYU (Master of Arts) Studies with Lillian Freundlich and Ena Bronstein; Master classes with Murray Perahia and Oxana Yablonskaya. Studios in BERKELEY and EL CERRITO, California; Member, Music Teachers Assoc. of California, MTAC; Distance learning
at POWHOW: http://www.powhow.com/classes/shirley-kirsten and Skyped instruction available plus exchange videos: SKYPE ID, shirleypiano1 Contact me at: shirley_kirsten@yahoo.com OR http://www.youtube.com/arioso7 or at FACEBOOK: Shirley Smith Kirsten, http://facebook.com /shirley.kirsten TWITTER: http://twitter.com/arioso7
Private fund-raising for non-profits as pianist--Public Speaking re: piano teaching and creative approaches
I am an adult student–69 y.o–who took lessons for a few years as a child and when I retired wanted to REALLY learn to play. My lessons are often the most important thing I do all week and I care deeply how well I am able to meet the expectations of my excellent teacher.
Having said that, however, I am unsure as to whether I am being held to the same standards, and even whether I am able to meet the standards, of some of her serious younger students. I love the wide variety of repertoire, the fact that my teacher allows me to choose to a certain extent, but also the fact that she pushes me to learn music I would/could never have attempted on my own.
I often feel insecure–maybe am unable to play as quickly (rapid noteplaying) as younger students and often wonder whether I am hindered by my age in other ways. One way I am certain I am the equal of any student is in my drive to accomplish and my commitment to my lessons.
I’m impressed with your enthusiasm about lessons, and dedication to your musical growth and development. Certainly age is no hindrance to joyful piano playing. Why compare yourself to any other students, when each musical journey is unique and valid unto itself? All my adult students are special and give so much to me through their personal adventures and awakenings. One is in her 70s and hungry to learn and take patient, baby steps in the process. It sounds like you have a quality teacher and are moving forward. I commend you for all of this. Shirley K