"The Sad Story of Veronica who Played the Violin" with introduction by Mrs. Lowe. You DON'T want to miss this one!!

This is last year's end of the year video that I play before our final concert begins. I thought your kids would enjoy seeing it- and if you send me pictures, I can make a new video for this year's students!

Dear Parents,

Musicians have a unique opportunity to soothe and comfort.

During this uncertain time, do not underestimate the power of music and use it as a way to center yourself and your children.

We will navigate all of this together and I'm sure we will learn a lot!

I've included a few quotes that students recently shared with me. They provide great evidence of the effect that practicing and playing music has on children.

Claire: 9

When I’m really stressed out, I play cello and I feel better. It makes me relaxed and calm.

Allison: 8

The way that I feel when I play the Violin is, Relaxed because I allow the song to get into my head.

Calm because I let the tune to the song basically take over my body.

Lastly I feel excited because I never know how it will end up and if it will sound good!

Grace: 9

Viola lets your heart sing out!

Information for my students:

Now that you are at home you will have all the time in the world to practice!!!!! Yippee!

I am making pages for first and second year violin, viola and cello students. I have also just added a messages from Mrs. Lowe page.

To get to each page, click on the Primary Suzuki Strings tab and then look for the tab for the instrument you play- and first or second year. That brings you to the online information you need.

This will give you directions about what to practice, how to practice, how long to practice and includes the music with fingerings.

This will be a great chance for you to polish and memorize pieces you already know and learn new pieces! I'm excited!!

For now- I will post weekly on the Victor Music Distant Learning page. That doesn't mean that you will be able to learn any of the new songs in a week. You know it takes time. I just want to check in and see how you are doing.

Just keep working and you'll succeed!!

Information for Parents:

Thank you for helping your children navigate this uncertain time. If we all work together, not only will we get through this, but your kids will learn that they can make it through something hard and succeed. That's a great lesson for them. This is new to all of us!

If you put practicing on a schedule it be much more likely to happen. This is what I recommend during the normal school year and now, you may have to have a schedule for the entire day.

A 15 minute time slot is all that they need to maintain their playing skills.

I will be do my best to answer any questions by email that you may have.

If you send me video clips of your child, I can give you practice advice. I'm not sure exactly how well I can keep up with this since I have 150 students, so please be patient while we figure out the most efficient way to handle this new way to connect with students and families. I will do the best I can!