Walker duo here Sunday
Although the temperatures still seem like summer, the fall music calendar is kicking in. The Black Hills Chamber Society starts their concert season this Sunday, Sept. 13, with a piano duo performance at 7:30 p.m.
Dr. John Walker and his wife, Mary, will be playing at the First Congregational Church, 1200 Clark Street, in Rapid City. Dr. Walker has been a Professor of Music and Director of Keyboard Studies at South Dakota State University for a number of years. You may have read about his performance cycle of all 32 piano sonatas by Beethoven. Mary has just joined the SDSU piano faculty, but maintains her private studio in Brookings as well.
I hope all the Piano Pals members can make it to this concert for a bit of inspiration.
Speaking of Piano Pals, here’s a photo of my duo partner Anita Paige (far right) at the CONNECTED art exhibit last week. Anita is showing some of her original jewelry work and her pals came up to take a look and have some fun.
This photo exemplifies what a great time we had. The “connections” continued throughout the evening as more folks came to see the artwork and were surprised to find that they knew so many other people. The exhibit continues at the Bay Leaf Cafe in Spearfish throughout the month of September.
Meanwhile, back at the piano studio, I have just completed my first week of teaching for the Autumn Session. The choice spots are filling in quickly, so if you are looking for piano lessons after school, you’d better call soon. 342-3328.
Hope you are having a great season and getting ready to practice this year.
I welcome your comments and suggestions for future blogs.
Thanks for stopping by. mlt
September 12th, 2009 at 4:59 pm
Marie,
I wasn’t sure where to put this information, but I will try here. Thank you for allowing me to give a brief description of goals, philosophy and myself. Please edit if you wish.
Hello. I am new to the Black Hills area and I would like to give piano lessons to both children and adults on Saturdays.
My primary goal of teaching is to make learning to play the piano engaging, fulfilling and fun. It is an opportunity to enhance and expand other life skills: good communication, patience, confidence, and joy. I also believe that students should learn with proven, research-based methods designed so that they are able to reach their own goals.
My philosophy is that learning is a lifelong endeavor and when we learn that which causes enjoyment and fulfillment we become well-rounded individuals who are capable of building healthy relationships and contributing to our communities.
To accomplish this I draw upon what I know about learners, both children and adults. As a former piano teacher, classroom teacher (K-12), and university instructor, I know the importance of each lesson meeting the needs of the individual student. Together, the student and I will determine the best course of study and jointly pursue it. It is essential for me to discover what the students’ interests are and what they wish to learn. During each lesson I pay close attention to my students to ensure that what we are doing is understandable and clear while meeting their needs.
I hold a Master’s of Science in Guidance and Counseling and an Agency Trainer Certification for the Center for Cognitive Coaching. I have had extensive training in learning styles and personality traits. Utilizing my education with my experience helps me to create an optimal learning environment.
Please call if you would like to visit about lessons.
MaryLou McGirr
12177 Washington Loop
Sturgis, SD 57785
347-5270