April 18, 2014
I noticed that as a music teacher, it is always challenging to turn off my critiquing ears and mind when listening to live music, as it is my job on a daily basis to make constant assessments of the music I hear. 

Recently, one of my students was playing a piece and for the first time in a very long time, I got lost in her music making; enjoying her sounds, her ease of playing, her musicality, her confidence. When she was finished playing, I was totally unprepared to be the "teacher" I was supposed to be, as she left me feeling quite amazed and completely speechless. For the first time in a long time I was simply the "listener" getting lost in her music. 

After I collected my thoughts, told her about my goosebumps, the tears forming in my eyes, and the standing ovation she received from the hairs on my arms, she was beaming, just beaming with pride. She held her cheeks and said, "I am so happy right now!" This moment was such a beautiful moment for both her and I. 

This is why I teach, so I can be a part of creating these incredible moments with my students that will definitely last forever in our memories!

While many-a-musical moments have occurred here at the studio since it's inception, I have just decided to begin documenting them here on my blog.  This will be a great way to share with you the awesomeness that happens at JMM, all while helping me remember these unforgettable moments!

January 2, 2014
Student: Little X (4 years young).  Super bright, loves superheroes, and is a tad bit nervous about performing in his first piano recital.

During his lesson today we spent lots of time practicing performance and talking about his nervousness regarding his first ever piano recital.  I shared my feelings as well, as I too can relate to having the case of the jitter bugs before a performance.  This made him smile; I guess he felt that he wasn't alone.  He played his piece, practiced, and bowed over and again until finally, lesson time was up.

At sticker time, one of his stickers ripped.  I told him that I am a Sticker Superhero and I will save his sticker.  He said, "You're not a Sticker Superhero. You're a Performance Superhero. You help people who are scared to perform."  I asked him if I helped him today and he said "Yes!" with a big smile on his face!

I have now officially reached superhero status and "Yes!" it feels awesome!