Recently, I noticed quite a few students who were talking about their plans for the break mentioned how they were excited to see their former teacher when they returned home. I realized that when I'm home, I too am always trying to set up lessons with my former teacher, Joan or visit some of my school orchestra teachers.
And it's not just because I REALLY need/want a lesson.
I want to see my teachers because they were, and are, and will continue to be a major influence in my life!
Joan not only taught me *how* to play viola. She taught me how to be a good musician, she inspired me to always want it better and she was/is the perfect role model of a great orchestral musician and mother. She showed it was possible and gave me the confidence to pursue a career in music!
Other teachers who I like to visit are Ms. Ellis and Dr. Kempter. Ms. Ellis was my orchestra teacher in the 6th grade. Of course when she was teaching me, I had NO idea then that I wanted to study music to be my career, but if she had not inspired me and made me LIKE orchestra, I may not have continued through the next few years. Dr. Kempter was my high school orchestra director. In addition to being an excellent musician and person, honestly, if he had not cut me so much slack about skipping rehearsal to go practice, I may not have made it through my senior year auditions!
Basically, what I'm trying to say is this: we ALL have teachers. Maybe there is one, maybe there are a few that have greatly influenced or changed your life!
So why not take the time to tell them these two special words that can mean a lot if you say it like you mean it:
THANK YOU!
I would not be anywhere without them :)
Love,
Violamad
Great ! There are many important teachers in my life too ...
ReplyDeleteDear sweet Marie. What a lovely blog entry. My kids were at home and asked me if it was good or bad news as I sat at my computer with tears in my eyes! You are a remarkable young woman. I feel lucky to have had you as a 6th grade student and I am honored to still be part of your life. I have fond memories of playing Canon in D with you and Tara almost every day after school. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteYes, it's really good to have all that special teachers, but... what to do when your teacher is REALLY bad?
ReplyDeleteMy viola teacher isn't a good teacher. I really love viola, but I'll never be a good violist becouse of this :(
My orchestra teacher is good, but he plays the flute. He cannot help me with the viola!
Everything I can do is play at home, what I can. It's almost a good hobby, when you can't dedicate your hole life to music!