 |
| SUMMIT PHOTO BY JESUSA CHRISTIANS
Waldorf College Professor Kristin Taylor works with “camper” Dean Safe on finger placement at last week’s Piano Camp. |
Waldorf camp a hit with pianists
A combination of improvement and enjoyment
By Jesusa Christians
Of The Summit
FOREST CITY - Upon entering the Odvin Hagen Music Center last week, one was instantly engulfed with piano music reverberating from the high ceilings.
The music enticed you to listen, as the piano camp students performed their pieces for Waldorf College Piano Professor Kristin Taylor.
“Professor Taylor helps everyone to realize their weaknesses,” said camper Dean Safe. “Piano Camp at Waldorf has been a great skill builder for me as a pianist.”
Piano Camp is for students entering grades 5-12. The camp was held on the Waldorf campus and ran from June 28 through July 2.
The camp allowed pre-college students a chance to take lessons that teach many aspects of being a pianist.
“They teach you ways to improve your playing, but also to enjoy your talents,” said Milianna Carlson, of Story City. “The teachers can relate to all the problems you may have with your playing, as well as tell you the background of the composers piece you are performing.”
During a master class on Tuesday, Taylor had her students focus on distinction of notes and finger placements. Taylor also lectured of the importance of having a strong musical foundation when performing one's piece and the importance of becoming familiar with the composers background.
“I enjoy being a teacher because I challenge my students to believe in themselves,” Taylor said. “I encourage them to achieve goals they never thought were possible and to further themselves as musicians.”
A recital was held on Wednesday, the last day of the camp, and followed by a small reception for the students.
Waldorf's Piano Camp is in its third year under the organization and direction of Assistant Professor of Piano/Music Department Co-Chair, Dr. Kristin Taylor. Other instructors included; Diane Stadtlander, a local piano teacher and piano instructor at Waldorf, Dr. Maira Balacon, a piano professor at Mount Union College in Ohio, who was a guest instructor for the Piano Camp.
Interested parties should visit the web site, www.waldorf.edu for details on next year's camp and registration fees.
Story created Jul 08, 2008 - 10:14:05 CDT.
|
