Hello Piano People!
As we enter the final month of a very unique summer, I would like to give you an idea of what fall term might look like this year, as well as share some announcements.
In March, after the pandemic was in full swing, the Community Music Center closed. Most of you know that I taught piano in group classes and privately for a long time. 22 years to be exact. It was like I was losing my home when I was laid off!
But compared to the alarming spread of the virus, it paled in comparison. My whole family self-isolated. I live in the basement of my daughter and son-in-law's home, where I set up a little music studio. I only have a digital electric piano at home, which is decent. But my preference is an acoustic upright. And for performance, there is nothing in this world like a Steinway grand piano.
Like the Steinway at the Music Center which sits in the auditorium on a stage. It is where I have held student recitals, solo concerts, chamber music concerts and where I have accompanied the Francis Street Singers in the weekly rehearsals and for performance. For over years.
Like everyone, the sudden changes in my life due to the pandemic cut deep.
But I made the best of it. I started teaching my students online via Skype and Zoom. Then the board of directors at the Community Music Center made a microgrant available for those of us who teach CMC students who are on scholarship due to financial hardship. I also cut my rates to make lessons affordable during this time.
And we are still here! Human beings, after all are highly adaptable. We are survivors!
Many of my students are actually thriving! Especially my intermediate to advanced students. It is challenging for beginners since I am not there in person to show them the notes and how to properly use their fingers.
But I have been making tutorial videos, which my students say are very helpful.
I want to thank all of you for being patient and flexible. Sometimes the internet signal is weak, and online lessons are challenging. Sometimes I am just not as organized as I could be due to my very cramped space.
But there is always learning, music, laughs and a deep bonding that can only come between a student and a teacher who really cares.
Looking ahead to fall term:
I still plan on creating performance groups via Zoom. But they will not happen until the first Saturday in October. I apologize. I also babysit my granddaughter full time. Her mom and dad had begun a little side photography business before the pandemic. And now, since they have more time on their hands, it is booming! I watch my granddaughter when they do photoshoots. Sometimes these involve long hours, especially weddings and out of town shoots.
So, I am a bit weary. My granddaughter (Grace) will be 3 years old in one month. She is a precious ball of energy! All the more reason for me to get back to the gym if it ever opens back up!
Anyway, please put piano performance classes on your calendars, beginning the first Saturday in October. (10/03/20) at 2 p.m. We will get to know each other and play pieces we are working on. You can even have treats in your own home. Ask your parents. 😀
I feel like the performance groups will provide extra motivation for regular practice.
Speaking of which, I hope all my students are practicing daily. Even a short session daily will prove successful!
Also, I have been talking to the assistant director of CMC about the future of the music center. It fate is sadly still up in the air. We are at the mercy of the City of Portland, which is struggling financially. They had hoped for an October opening, but this would still be online learning only.
However, if it does open in October, I would be able to stream my lessons online from CMC using their equipment and pianos!
YAY!
And that is my news for now. I will try to send you regular updates.
I so enjoy teaching and feel like my students are part of my family. Even when practicing is sparse, I enjoy visiting and talking about music with you.
If you have any questions, please let me know.
Be safe and healthy! And practice your piano!
🎹 Teacher Zita
