CONCERTS

Through my experience as a teacher I have realised the value of public performances for my pupils.

Through these gatherings students gain self esteem and praise from family and peers, who acknowledge their efforts.  It is important that students are encouraged to partake in the opportunity to perform from a young age.  This helps to minimise performance anxiety and allows students  to think of performance as the enjoyable part of their studies for which it is intended.

Each year pupils of In Tune Music academy are invited to perform at an annual presentation concert.  During these concerts pupils are invited to perform one of their favourite pieces that they have learnt throughout the year.  These concerts are a great opportunity for students to display their talents amongst family & friends.  All students at these concerts take home an award of merit acknowledging their yearly achievements.  Each year a trophy & perpetual award is presented to the pupil that has shown the greatest progress during the course of the year.  This award is named the “Student of the Year “award & never fails to inspire the newcomers.

It is important that each and every student receive some form of praise.  This may be in the form of a  simple recognition award, encouragement award or simply the applause of a supportive audience.   Everyone enjoys being praised and a student is more likely to continue studies if the overall experience is gratifying and enjoyable.  Many students gain a great deal of experience and knowledge through public performance by listening to and observing other musicians.

EISTEDDFODS

It is important to understand each student’s personality and needs before deciding to enter a student in an eisteddfod.

Each year Marymount Primary students & selected external students are given the opportunity to participate in the Festival for Young Performers held at Somerset College on the Gold Coast.  This festival although run in an eisteddfod style format, is aimed at encouraging students in their musical pursuits.  Eisteddfod sections accommodate students of varying age & ability & are a great opportunity for students to perform & be inspired by their peers.  The Gold Coast Eisteddfod is also available to the more serious students.

Eisteddfods enable students to compare themselves with others of a similar level, while receiving an adjudicators report.  This report offers students advice on how to further improve their musical performance and provide encouragement at the same time from another musician other than their teacher.

Some students benefit greatly from these experiences, particularly those students that are competitive and gifted musicians look forward to these events striving to meet a certain level of proficiency.  However,  it is important for every student to strive towards achievement on a personal level.  The degree of achievement and expectations should be based on the individual, derived from their own personal desires and not from the pressure of others.

Competition can be a healthy stimulus for some, but for others it can be a daunting experience.