Beginners
Beginning a musical instrument can be exciting but at the same time anxiety producing. I’m thinking about this now because in just a few weeks I will be starting a whole new group of students on their string instruments. There usually is at least one student who can barely sit down with many questions and concerns making it difficult to get through a lesson.
Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE)
“SECE” embodies the purist presentation of Shinichi Suzuki’s philosophy of education for children ages 0-3. After having worked as an assistant teacher in a SECE class and then completing stage 1 training, what stuck with me the most was the importance of teaching students of all levels how to focus.
The focusing skill
Learning how to focus is essential when engaging in any high level activity such as working on a degree, playing a sport, writing a book, or learning a musical instrument. Deep learning is greatly facilitated by a quiet mind. When one enters into a hypnotic mindset, it becomes possible to put aside distractions and self-imposed limitations. Start out by sitting calmly and quietly and then focus on the task at hand.
Violinist Linda Beers is the creator of the Inspiration for Violinists, a 50 card deck. Each card has a unique image and text inspiring musicianship, mindfulness and spirituality.