“SOUNDS GREAT!” MUSIC EDUCATION CONFERENCE, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
The organizers said that participants described the sessions as “sensational,” “unbelievable” . . .
Gina Wake, Hal Leonard Music Publishers (Australia) 2007
PEABODY CONSERVATORY
“Wonderful, upbeat – it is vital to keep coming back to the emotional center – what is actually being communicated – and you did it creatively, without being judgmental.”
– Marian Hahn, piano professor
YALE UNIVERSITY
“I think you are opening up a difficult area. Thank you for making us aware. More work like this would free up a musical society that sometimes feels emotionally sterile. Bravo!”
– participant comments
THE JUILLIARD SCHOOL
“Illuminating and useful – this should be done regularly, just to affirm that our souls are open to the music and the audience.”
– student comments
CHAMBER MUSIC AMERICA
“Superb – there was a great deal of excitement and ‘buzz’ around your session; the Un-Master Class was a big hit!”
– Vicki Roth, program director
NATIONAL FLUTE ASSOCIATION
“These are concepts whose time has come – what a wonderful way to help people; you are very insightful!”
– participant comments
CLEVELAND INSTITUTE OF MUSIC
“Reassuring – we often forget the real reason why we play/sing. Thanks for a refresher! It brought out so easily what I know is inherent in me.”
– student comments
ASPEN MUSIC SCHOOL
“Innovative and enlightening – something every musician should experience – opened up a whole new meaning of music. Refreshing to watch our inhibitions dissolve!”
– violin students
HOLLAND MUSIC SESSIONS (Alkmaar, Netherlands)
“With each young artist you turn the musical energy and the unlimited scale of human emotions and thoughts from the instrument through the player INTO the audience. And that is what music is all about. Thank you so much for reminding us.”
– Frans Wolfkamp, Director
UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON
“Fascinating and totally unique. Reinforced my thoughts that music isn’t some kind of science, it’s life! Possibly the most useful class I have ever heard (or played in)”
– student comments
THE AHN TRIO
“You had a profound effect on us; we feel as though we are better communicators as musicians and as people.”
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
“Your class was a wonderful success. The students and I benefited enormously from your innovative, inspiring presentation.”
– Paul Kantor, professor of violin
DENVER PIANO CELEBRATION
“I am an amateur pianist, and had not played in public for more than 15 years. I entered the contest simply because I love the D minor concerto and liked the idea of playing one of Mozart’s masterpieces in a nice hall!
When I was a teenager, I participated in some master classes and was deeply humiliated by comments that I remember to this day: “You play like a mouse” and “How very mediocre” are my personal favorites. I can laugh about it now, but it was upsetting at the time, and as an amateur who has moved on to a different career and a much healthier relationship to the piano, I did not wish to return to that type of experience. I was the worry wart who expressed great trepidation about the class.
I am so glad I decided to participate after all! I had a blast. From the liberating warm-ups to your unorthodox approach, I found the entire experience incredibly positive and helpful. I think the work you are doing to break down the traditional master class is valuable and exciting. I have the utmost respect for what you have achieved, and it is a comfort to me to know that you are helping to humanize music instruction.
Thank you so much.”
– Heidi Basarab, winner, Adult Amateur Concerto Contest