Below is a link to a 3.25 minute piece played by Emmanuel Pahud, one of the foremost flute performers of our time.  I would like for each student to view this at least once before our next lesson, with these observations in mind:

1.  What is the setting?  (orchestral solo)
2.  Describe Mr. Pahud's flute
3.  Would you describe the piece as lyrical or technical?
4.  Make note of Mr. Pahud's embouchure and hand position
5.  Listen carefully to his tone.  How would you describe it?
6.  What other instruments do you see, and what are they doing?

For bonus work, students may research Emmanuel Pahud, listen to more videos of his playing, or listen to more of the Carmen opera.  Students may use part of their practice time to complete this assignment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eChLCFAGyx0

​My students do a great job with their music, but they also excel in other areas of their lives as well!  Here are a few highlights:
Sandra, Emma, and Roshni successfully performed solos in the All-State auditions.  Emma and Roshni advanced to All-County Band, and Roshni also advanced to Region band.  Good job, girls!
Hanna, Chloe, and Gabrielle all participated in their school talent shows recently.  Hanna performed a flute solo, and Chloe and Gabrielle danced.  This is such good performance experience!
Maureen's poem was published in last week's edition of Greenville Online, a weekly news publication.  Her poem was about fingers, and included how her fingers play flute :)
 
Upcoming Flutes-Only Recital is scheduled for 2pm on Saturday, May 21 at Musical Innovations (150-G Tanner Road, Greenville).  It will last about an hour, and will include flute solos, duets, and group flute ensemble pieces.  There is no recital fee, but there is a $10 accompanist fee for students needing an accompanist.  This fee includes a rehearsal and the performance.  Commitment forms will go out in April, at which time the non-refundable accompanist fee will be due.  During lessons, all students will be studying pieces that can be used in recital, whether they participate or not.
 
Summer Lessons: Yes!  I teach through the summer :)  Summer lessons benefit students in many ways:
*they have more time to focus on musical progress because they don't have academic homework, thereby accomplishing greater milestones, faster
*they don't regress in their skill.  It normally takes at least 6 weeks of remedial work in the fall for students who don't study in the summer to catch up
*the student's lesson spot is reserved for the fall (my studio is full and still growing!)
*the student's tuition typically stays the same.  New and returning students pay a higher tuition rate which increases in August.
Summer lessons are flexible and pro-rated in June, July, and August due to family vacations and summer activities.
 
I'm proud of my students and their accomplishments, and I like to post student photos and videos on my website and studio Facebook page.  When I do, only the student's first name and last initial are mentioned, for safety's sake.  Many parents have already given their consent, but if for any reason you do not want your student's photo on the internet, contact me and I will respect your wishes.  :)
 
I encourage all my students to share your music!  We learn these skills to benefit not only ourselves, but others as well.  Take opportunities to bring pleasure to others and build performance experience by playing for your family, at nursing homes, in church, or any place you can find to share.  :)