As the Chopin Academy of Music concludes its 20th Anniversary Season, we invite our community to a special weekend of concerts and masterclasses—a celebration of artistry, education, and the next generation of exceptional pianists.

This milestone season has brought internationally acclaimed performers, distinguished faculty, and rising artists to the Seattle area. Now, we close the series with a dynamic weekend that captures the heart of what the Academy represents: high-level performance and meaningful musical mentorship.

A Weekend of Piano Masterclasses

In addition to Sunday’s featured concert, the weekend includes three piano masterclasses, offering students and audiences a rare opportunity to experience the artistic process up close.

Masterclasses are a cornerstone of the Chopin Academy’s philosophy—bridging performance and pedagogy, and giving young musicians invaluable insight into interpretation, technique, and musical expression.

These sessions provide:

• Direct interaction between performers and students
• Real-time musical problem-solving and refinement
• A deeper understanding of how great artistry is shaped

Whether participating or observing, masterclasses are among the most inspiring and educational musical experienceswe offer.

Final Concert: Award-Winning Artists

The weekend culminates in a special concert featuring Sean Terada Yang and Cezary Karwowski, two outstanding pianists who represent the next generation of international artists.

Both were top prize winners in the 2024 Seattle International Piano Competition (Collegiate Division):

• Sean Terada Yang — Gold Medal
• Cezary Karwowski — Silver Medal

Their performances promise an afternoon of virtuosity, depth, and compelling musical storytelling, bringing this anniversary season to a powerful close.

Celebrating 20 Years of Musical Excellence

For two decades, the Chopin Academy of Music has been dedicated to cultivating technical mastery, artistic depth, and a lifelong connection to music. Our students have gone on to achieve recognition in competitions, perform on major stages, and develop into thoughtful, expressive musicians.

This anniversary season has been both a reflection on that legacy and a forward-looking celebration of what is still to come.

Event Details

📅 Date: Sunday
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM Concert
📍 Location: Sacred Heart Chapel
Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart (Bellevue, WA)

🎟 Admission: $20 at the door
🎓 CAM Students: Free (with up to two accompanying adults)

Join Us for a Weekend of Music

From the interactive energy of the masterclasses to the polished artistry of the final concert, this weekend offers a complete musical experience for students, families, and audiences alike.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you.

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As the Chopin Academy of Music approaches the final months of its 20th Anniversary Season, we find ourselves reflecting on what has truly been an exceptional and inspiring year. From guest artist residencies and masterclasses to award-winning student performances and faculty collaborations, this season has highlighted the depth of artistry and commitment that defines our musical community. We’re about more than just music lessons in Issaquah.

While many memorable events have already taken place, several important performances and masterclasses remain — each offering students and audiences the opportunity to experience live artistry at the highest level.

These closing events also serve as an important reminder of what distinguishes a comprehensive music education: not only weekly lessons, but exposure to professional performance, thoughtful repertoire, and the living traditions of classical music.

March 29: Kaminska & Bowlby in Concert

On March 29 at 2:00 PM, Chopin Academy founders Dr. Ivona Kaminska and Dr. Christopher Bowlby present a program centered on the imaginative world of Robert Schumann, one of the most poetic voices of the Romantic era.

A unifying artistic idea behind this program is the concept of the Davidsbündler — an artistic circle envisioned by Schumann representing individuality, imagination, and artistic integrity in response to the musical culture of his time. The program explores this spirit through works that balance introspection, lyricism, and virtuosity.

For students of piano, violin, cello, flute, and chamber music, concerts such as this offer valuable insight into interpretation, tone production, collaboration, and musical structure. Observing professional musicians communicate musical ideas in real time deepens understanding in ways that cannot be replicated through practice alone.

Live performance remains one of the most powerful educational tools available to developing musicians.

April 25–26: Guest Artists, Masterclasses, and the Anniversary Finale

The anniversary season culminates in a concentrated series of guest artist events on April 25 and April 26, offering students multiple opportunities to observe and participate in high-level musical exchange.

On April 25 (4:00–7:00 PM), guest artists Cezary Karwowski and Sean Terada Yang will lead a joint masterclass at the Chopin Academy, providing students with individualized feedback and insight drawn from international performance experience.

On April 26 (11:15 AM–1:15 PM), we welcome Dr. Yi-Yang Chen, Assistant Professor of Piano at the University of Kansas, for an additional masterclass exploring advanced interpretive and technical topics.

Later that afternoon, the 20th Anniversary Concert Series concludes with a guest recital by Cezary Karwowski and Sean Terada Yang, presenting a program that reflects virtuosity, stylistic depth, and artistic individuality.

Together, these events provide a rare opportunity for students to experience multiple artistic perspectives in a short period of time. Exposure to varied interpretive approaches strengthens musical flexibility and deepens understanding of style and technique.

A Year of Artistic Growth

Throughout the academic year, Chopin Academy students have benefited from an unusually rich sequence of artistic experiences — opportunities that support not only technical development, but also musical maturity and confidence.

Serious study of music involves more than learning notes. It involves:

• understanding stylistic traditions
• listening critically
• performing regularly
• engaging with the broader artistic community
• learning from multiple artistic perspectives

These experiences form the foundation of lasting musicianship.

The breadth of activity during this anniversary season has created an environment in which students can connect weekly lesson work with real-world artistic practice.

Looking Ahead

As the 20th Anniversary Season draws to a close, these final events highlight the values that continue to shape the Chopin Academy of Music:

careful teaching, disciplined practice, artistic curiosity, and meaningful engagement with the musical tradition.

We invite students, families, and members of the community to join us for these concluding performances and masterclasses, and to share in the musical dialogue that has defined the Chopin Academy of Music for the past twenty years.

We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years ahead.

The post Closing the 2025-26 Season appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

If you’re ready to unlock your full potential, don’t wait—when there is talent, there is no time to waste! Simply fill out our contact form to be placed on the waitlist, indicate your preferred lesson time, and we’ll notify you as soon as an opening becomes available.

Why Choose Chopin Academy of Music?

As a leader in classical music education in Sammamish and Issaquah, we are dedicated to advancing the future of classical music through inspirational teaching and creative expression—one aspiring student at a time. Studies show the demand is booming for high quality private music lessons Here’s why families in Sammamish and Issaquah continue to choose us:

🎵 A Recognized Name in Classical Music Education – Our school has built a legacy of excellence since 2005, helping students achieve their highest musical potential.

🏆 Award-Winning Students – Each year, our students collectively earn over 250 top awards in prestigious music competitions.

📚 Proven Programs for Success – Our unique, results-driven curriculum including our Exam Track Program ensures every student reaches their musical goals.

🎭 Top Performance Venues – Students perform at some of the world’s most prestigious halls, including Carnegie Halland Benaroya Hall.

🎓 Comprehensive Programs – From our Exam Track final certificate to college portfolio music supplement preparation, we offer the tools for future success.

🌟 Exclusive Masterclasses – Students gain invaluable insight from renowned guest artists through regular masterclasses and special events.

…and so much more!

Secure Your Spot Today

With high demand and limited availability, the best way to ensure your place is by joining our priority waitlist. Openings will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the most respected classical music education in Sammamish and Issaquah.

📩 Reserve your spot today! Fill out our contact form to join the waitlist, and we’ll keep you updated on upcoming openings.

Your musical journey starts here—don’t wait! 🎶

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A rare Pacific Northwest snow day can be more than just a break from routine—it can be the perfect opportunity for meaningful snow day music practice. For students taking piano lessons, violin lessons, cello lessons, or flute lessons at the Chopin Academy of Music, a quiet winter day at home can become valuable time for listening, reflection, and musical growth.

At the Chopin Academy of Music, we often remind our students that musical progress rarely comes from a single dramatic moment. Instead, it grows from many small sessions of thoughtful practice. A day when schedules slow down can become a gift for musicians who want to deepen their work.

So if you find yourself at home today, consider embracing the moment.

Practice once. Take a break. Have something warm to eat, take a short nap, listen to a recording or two—and then return to practice again.

Whether you study piano, violin, cello, or flute, snow days provide the perfect opportunity to spend extra time with your instrument.

Listening for Inspiration

One of the most powerful ways to improve as a musician is simply to listen to great artists. Hearing master performers interpret the same music you are studying can reveal phrasing, tone, and musical ideas that might not be obvious from the page alone.

For inspiration today, we encourage students to listen to the legendary Martha Argerich performing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 with conductor Charles Dutoit. Her electrifying performance is a reminder of how expressive and powerful classical music can be when technique and imagination come together.

After listening, return to your own pieces and experiment. What musical ideas can you bring to your interpretation? How can tone, phrasing, articulation, or timing change the character of a passage?

Snow outside often means quiet inside—perfect conditions for focused listening and thoughtful practice.

Why Consistent Practice Matters

As teachers, we frequently observe that the students who progress most quickly are not necessarily those who practice the longest hours in a single sitting. Instead, the most successful students build consistent habits.

Two thoughtful practice sessions in a day—especially when separated by rest and reflection—can be more effective than one long session.

Snow days offer a natural opportunity to experiment with this rhythm:

• Practice in the morning
• Listen to recordings or study the score
• Rest or enjoy family time
• Return to your instrument in the afternoon

Small adjustments like this can lead to meaningful improvement.

A Reminder for Exam Track Students

For families participating in the Chopin Academy Exam Track, this is also a good moment to review the requirements for the academic year—especially for students hoping to perform in the Honors Recital at Benaroya Hall on June 14.

To be considered for participation, students must complete several program standards under the guidance of their instructor, including:

• Learning representative repertoire from at least three stylistic eras
• Completing the Winter Technical Exam
• Performing from memory in at least three group events (recitals, performance classes, or masterclasses)
• Attending a minimum of two full-length professional CAM anniversary concerts
• Participating in at least two Seattle International Piano Festival (SIPF) festivals

The remaining qualifying festival opportunities this year include:

• April 15 — Classical Viennese Festival International
• June 14 — Virtuoso Artists Festival International

Families are encouraged to check progress regularly with their instructor to ensure students remain on track for spring evaluations.

Upcoming Concerts and Masterclasses

The 20th Anniversary Season of the Chopin Academy of Music continues with several exciting events in the coming months:

• March 29 – Kaminska–Bowlby in Concert – A recital of solo and duo works including music by Schumann.
• April 25 (Afternoon) – Masterclasses at Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart with guest artists, Sean Terada Yang and Cezary Karwowski, distinguished laureates of the Seattle International Piano Competition.
• April 26 (Morning) – Guest Masterclass with Dr. Yi-Yang Chen (University of Kansas)
• April 26 (Afternoon) – Concert with Sean Terada Yang and Cezary Karwowski.

These concerts not only celebrate the Academy’s artistic community but also count toward the concert attendance requirement for Exam Track students.

Making the Most of Winter Practice

Snow days will not last forever. Before long, the sun will return to the Pacific Northwest and it will become much harder to stay indoors to practice.

For now, however, the quiet of winter offers musicians something rare: uninterrupted time to think, listen, and practice.

So enjoy the snow, stay warm, and when the moment feels right—sit down with your piano, violin, cello, or flute and make some music.

Your future self will thank you.

The post A Snow Day for Musicians appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

If you thought our 20th Anniversary season started strong with Dominic Doutney’s electrifying performance, get ready—the celebration continues with another world-class artist. On Sunday, October 19, 2025 at 2 PM, the Chopin Academy of Music proudly welcomes Sara Davis Buechner, one of North America’s most compelling concert pianists, in a live recital at Sacred Heart Chapel, Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart (4800 139th Ave SE, Bellevue).
Free parking is available, and admission is $20 at the door—CAM students attend free with up to two accompanying family members.

A Rare Artist, A Remarkable Career

With performances hailed as “fascinating and astounding virtuosity” (Philippine Star) and “intelligence, integrity and all-encompassing technical prowess” (New York Times), Sara Davis Buechner stands among the foremost pianists of our time. Her artistry has captivated audiences at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center, and the Hollywood Bowl, and she has appeared as soloist with the world’s leading orchestras—from New York and Philadelphia to Tokyo and Shanghai.

A prodigious competition winner, Ms. Buechner earned top honors at the Queen Elisabeth, Leeds, Salzburg, Sydney, and Vienna international piano competitions, as well as the Gold Medal at the Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition. This year, she performed duos by personal invitation from Martha Argerich at the Argerich Festival in Hamburg—an honor reserved for the rarest few.

Sara Davis Buechner’s Program: Impressions from America and France

For this special Sara Davis Buechner piano concert, audiences will enjoy an evocative program titled, “Impressions from America and France,” featuring masterworks of elegance, wit, and color:

• John Alden Carpenter – Diversions (1923): A witty, jazz-tinged suite evoking early American modernism.
• Dana Suesse – The Cocktail Suite (1942): Sparkling vignettes—“Old-Fashioned,” “Champagne,” “Bacardi,” and “Manhattan”—that channel the glamour of 1940s Manhattan.
• Claude Debussy – La Plus Que Lente: A lush waltz that breathes the smoky perfume of Parisian salons.
• Francis Poulenc – Les Soirées de Nazelles: Nine sparkling character sketches that dance between nostalgia and wit—a perfect showcase for Buechner’s lyrical and mercurial touch.

Experience It Live

This concert is not to be missed. To witness Sara Davis Buechner in person is to experience both a virtuoso and a storyteller—one whose performances have been praised for their “thoughtful artistry in the full service of music” (Washington Post).

Online ticket purchases for non-CAM guests (or for additional invited friends and family beyond the two free family members) can be made securely here:
👉 Purchase Tickets Online
Simply show a screenshot of your receipt at will call to receive your ticket.

The Celebration Continues

The 20th Anniversary Season is just beginning. Upcoming highlights include:

• Oct 20 – Sara Davis Buechner Masterclass (2:30–6 PM, CAM)
• Nov 8–9 – Alexandre Dossin Masterclasses
• Nov 23 – Dr. Zeru Wang in Recital
• Jan 25, 2026 – CAM Faculty in Concert
• Mar 1, 2026 – Alumni Recital
• Mar 29, 2026 – Drs. Ivona Kaminska & Christopher Bowlby in Concert
• Apr 25–26, 2026 – Sean Terada Yang & Cezary Karwowski Masterclass and Recital

For CAM students enrolled in Exam Track, attendance at two professional concerts during the anniversary season counts toward the Honors Recital requirement—but we encourage everyone to attend as many as possible. The lessons you’ll gain from hearing artists like Sara Davis Buechner are immeasurable. Live performances can ignite a student’s imagination in ways that lessons and recordings never can.

The post A Legend at the Keyboard: Sara Davis Buechner in Concert appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

When families search for piano lessons in Issaquah or Scottsdale, they often focus on the teacher, the program, or the schedule. And that is certainly important. But there is another factor just as crucial to a student’s success: the instrument itself.

At the Chopin Academy of Music, we regularly work with students transitioning from home practice instruments to major concert stages. One of the biggest differences between casual study and serious musical growth is the quality and responsiveness of the piano a student practices on every day.

A piano isn’t simply a tool; it’s a partner in artistry. The touch, tone, and responsiveness of the piano you practice on every day directly influence how a student learns to play, to listen, and ultimately, to express music.

Why Concert Instruments Are So Challenging

Whether studying in our Issaquah location near Seattle or through our expanding Scottsdale programs, students encounter a wide variety of instruments throughout their musical development. Learning to adapt to different piano actions, tones, and acoustics is part of becoming a mature musician. However, students consistently progress more efficiently when their home instrument encourages proper technique rather than limiting it.

Students often discover that performing on a concert grand feels entirely different from practicing at home, and to a parent they can sound very, very different on the stage. Even advanced pianists can be caught off guard by how heavy the action of a fine (or not so fine) concert instrument feels beneath their fingers. There are several reasons for this:

• Even respected halls don’t always have perfect instruments. Many concert pianos have decades of history—what technicians affectionately call “city miles.” Though well-maintained or even rebuilt, time and constant use change how they respond.
• Each concert piano is voiced for its own purpose. Some are bright and penetrating to project over a full orchestra; others are intentionally muted for chamber or vocal work. A pianist must constantly adapt.
• Neglect is common. Many otherwise fine instruments are stored in overly dry halls, exposed to sunlight, or inadequately serviced. Without regular maintenance, even the best pianos lose sensitivity and depth.

So when a young performer finally sits down at one of these instruments, it’s no surprise that it feels foreign—especially if their home piano is light, uneven, or digital. Part of a pianist’s skill set is being able to quickly size up an instrument and adapt on the spot. Still, optimizing a student’s at-home practice situation can be an extremely important part of the equation.

Why Digital Keyboards Don’t Prepare You for the Real Thing

Digital keyboards are convenient, space-saving, and affordable, but they create long-term challenges. In our experience, students who practice exclusively on digital instruments often learn to play with fingers only, never developing the use of arm weight—the fundamental technique that produces tone, color, and contrast on acoustic pianos.

When such students encounter a grand piano, they struggle to project sound or control dynamics. Their tone becomes flat and non-projecting, and no amount of practice on a digital keyboard can replace the tactile feedback of felt hammers, a concert-length lever action, a tension-weighted damper pedal, and soundboard resonance.

A good acoustic piano, on the other hand, trains strength, coordination, and musical sensitivity—skills that carry naturally to the concert stage.

This is one reason families seeking high-level piano lessons in Issaquah and Scottsdale often begin upgrading from entry-level keyboards to acoustic pianos as students advance.

The Problem with Upright Pianos

Even quality vertical pianos can limit a student’s growth. Their actions are inherently lighter and shallower than grands, and with age they lose regulation and tonal balance. The sound grows bright and uneven; keys feel unpredictable; repetition is unwieldy.

This inconsistency forces students to compensate with finger pressure rather than whole-arm motion, resulting in tension and restricted expression. Over time, the instrument itself becomes a barrier to progress.

Building a Better Practice Environment

If you’ve already taken the time and effort to seek out the best piano lessons in Issaquah, you’ve done your research. You’ve found expert faculty, performance opportunities, and an inspiring community. But there’s still one vital question to ask:

Is there more you can do to help your child reach their full potential?

The answer begins at home—with the piano itself.

• Get the best piano you can afford. Reputable brands like Steinway, Yamaha, Kawai, Baldwin, and Mason & Hamlin have earned their reputations through decades of craftsmanship and consistency. At our Issaquah and Scottsdale programs, students frequently encounter professional-quality instruments during masterclasses, recitals, and performance opportunities, making familiarity with a responsive acoustic piano increasingly important as study becomes more advanced.
• Keep your piano voiced and regulated.
  • Regulation ensures every key feels uniform and responsive.
  • Voicing adjusts the shape and density of hammer felts where they strike the strings. Over time, these felts harden and deform, producing harsh tone and limited dynamic range. Proper voicing restores balance and allows a pianist to shape sound—from the softest whisper to the fullest fortissimo.
  • Regular tuning is also key to preserving piano longevity and ensuring tone stays pleasing. Twice a year is recommended for students who practice an hour or more per day. Once per year is a minimum, even if a piano sees less use, ensuring the strings are able to move easily between friction points.
• Heavier and slightly muted is better than light and loud. In the home, pianos naturally sound louder than in concert spaces. A slightly “voiced down” instrument encourages healthy arm use and projection, preparing students for the larger halls where sound must travel.

The “Wait and See” Trap

Many parents say,

“We want to wait and see if my child is really interested before investing in a good piano.”

It’s an understandable sentiment—but one that often leads to missed opportunity. The early years of piano study are when the foundation for proper touch, tone, and technique is formed. Waiting too long can have lasting consequences.

Here’s why the “wait and see” approach rarely works:

• It reinforces poor technique. Students practicing on light keyboards or neglected uprights develop “finger-only” playing habits that are extremely difficult to correct later.
• Critical growth years are lost. By the time a parent commits—often when a child is 13 to 15—schoolwork, sports, and other activities limit practice time. The crucial window for technical development has passed.
• A better piano sustains interest. A responsive, rich-sounding instrument rewards effort and keeps motivation alive. Students stay interested because the piano itself feels inspiring.
• Inferior instruments cause frustration. Sticking keys, squeaky pedals, and uneven tones make it hard to enjoy playing. It’s often not the child’s lack of interest—it’s the piano’s lack of cooperation.
• Delaying often costs more. Parents end up buying twice: first an inadequate instrument, then the one the student really needed. Investing early saves money and years of frustration.
• Confidence comes from control. When a young pianist hears beautiful sound emerge from their own playing, it builds pride and emotional connection—fueling long-term commitment to the instrument.

Rather than waiting to see if a child will be interested, providing a proper piano helps create that very interest.

Buying Smart: Why a Reputable Dealer Matters

A piano purchase is both a musical and financial investment—and, like any investment, it requires informed guidance. Unfortunately, online marketplaces and classified ads are full of pianos that appear fine on the surface but hide costly problems beneath.

Common pitfalls include:

• Gray market pianos—instruments built for climates abroad (especially in Asia) that warp or crack in North American conditions.
• Worn or unstable parts, such as compacted felts, cracked soundboards, or loose tuning pins.
• Structural instability, affecting the case, pedals, or action regulation.

Before purchasing any used piano, always consult a Registered Piano Technician (RPT) certified by the Piano Technicians Guild (www.ptg.org).

At the Chopin Academy of Music, your primary instructor can also advise you on reputable local dealers, technicians, and piano models suitable for your level and goals. We’ve learned from experience—sometimes the hard way—that professional advice makes all the difference.

The Long View

A fine piano isn’t a luxury—it’s the foundation for lasting musical growth. The right instrument cultivates control, expression, and confidence in ways that no digital keyboard or aging upright can match. Many of the finest made instruments collect dust in the drawing rooms of many Northwest elite homes. However, they should really be put to use in the home of a young learner who will benefit from a great piano.

In a vibrant musical community like Issaquah—filled with recitals, competitions, and concert opportunities—owning a responsive, well-maintained piano bridges the gap between home practice and the concert stage.

Families investing in quality music education often discover that the right piano can dramatically influence motivation, confidence, and long-term progress. Whether a student is beginning lessons in Issaquah, preparing for advanced study in Scottsdale, or pursuing serious classical piano training elsewhere, a responsive acoustic instrument remains one of the most important foundations for success.

The post Keys to Success: Why Your Piano Matters appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

While others talk about excellence, we deliver it—week after week, concert after concert. As the Chopin Academy of Music celebrates its 20th anniversary, we’re not just looking back at two decades of student success, top competition results, and transformative education—we’re raising the bar for what a music school can and should be.

No Other School Does This. Period.

Let’s be blunt: no other music school in the Pacific Northwest presents anything close to what CAM offers its students. In the 2025–26 season alone, we’re hosting a jaw-dropping lineup of international guest artists, including names who perform in the world’s most prestigious venues and conservatories. These are not livestreams or distant dreams—these are live, in-person events, held in professional venues, for the benefit of our students and families.

Just last weekend, we welcomed Dominic Doutney, 2024 Professional Gold Medalist of the Seattle International Piano Competition and winner of the Washington International Competition. With breathtaking lyricism, poignant poise, and fearless virtuosity, he filled the Sacred Heart Chapel to the rafters, earning a standing ovation in one of the most stirring guest artist recitals in recent memory. This was not just a concert—it was a glimpse into the future of piano artistry.

There is no substitute for the visceral energy of a live performance—what students learn from the nuances, presence, and unpredictability of a concert cannot be replicated in recordings or the classroom.

This kind of shared musical experience doesn’t just elevate artistry—it strengthens community. As a recent article from the University of Oslo puts it: “Concerts bind people together… music may have offered an advantage for survival.” The study found that live audiences feel greater connection not only with the musicians, but with one another—something livestreams simply can’t replicate.

→ Read the full article: The miraculous effect of music: Concerts bind people together

What’s Next? World-Class, On Repeat.

Our next guest? The legendary Sara Davis Buechner—one of North America’s most compelling concert pianists—arrives in October for another masterclass and recital experience you won’t want to miss. Later in the year, we welcome Alexandre Dossin, Zeru Wang, Sean Terada Yang, Cezary Karwowski, combined CAM faculty, and more, rounding out a season that could rival the artist roster of a major university or festival.

All of this is part of our 20th Anniversary Celebration, a full academic year of special events that include faculty concerts, alumni showcases, and opportunities for students to perform, grow, and be inspired.

For Our Students, It’s Free—and It’s Required

Unlike other schools that charge steep fees for masterclasses or high-profile events, CAM students and their families attend these recitals free of charge (with up to two accompanying adults). For students in our Exam Track, attendance at two of these events is required in order to qualify for our annual Honors Recital at Benaroya Hall—but frankly, you’ll want to attend more.

Why? Because sitting just feet away from the artistry of international musicians changes how you hear, how you learn, and how you play. It elevates everything.

Come be a part of the Northwest’s most vibrant and ambitious music school. Whether you’re here to build a future in music—or simply want to experience the joy of high-level learning in a world-class environment—there’s no better time to be at CAM.

Visit chopinacademy.com for the full season schedule and join us as we celebrate 20 unforgettable years—with many more to come.

The post The Northwest’s Premier Music School Turns 20 appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

The Chopin Academy of Music proudly marks its 20th anniversary this season with a year-long series of concerts and special events. Since its founding in Issaquah, CAM has become a place where artistry and education meet, shaping hundreds of young musicians who have gone on to achieve success locally, nationally, and internationally. This milestone season offers our community an opportunity both to reflect on two decades of growth and to look ahead to the future of music-making.

All concerts take place on Sunday afternoons at 2 pm at the Sacred Heart Chapel, Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Bellevue. General admission is $20 at the door, and free for CAM students with up to two accompanying adults.

The 20th Anniversary Season at a Glance

• September 14, 2025 – Guest Artist Concert: Dominic Doutney
  British pianist Dominic Doutney, winner of the 2024 Washington International Competition and the Seattle International Piano Competition (Professional Artist Category), opens the season with a recital of profound artistry and technical brilliance. This event is free of charge and made possible in part by the Seattle International Piano Festival and Classic Pianos.
  Masterclass: September 13.

  
  

• October 19, 2025 – Guest Artist Concert: Sara Davis Buechner
  Internationally celebrated pianist Sara Davis Buechner joins the season with a landmark recital. A Steinway Artist with a career spanning major world stages and acclaimed recordings, Buechner is recognized as one of today’s most compelling and original performers.
  Masterclass: October 20.

  
  

• November 8–9, 2025 – Guest Artist Clinic: Dr. Alexandre Dossin
  CAM welcomes Dr. Alexandre Dossin, Steinway Artist and Professor of Piano at the University of Oregon, for a two-day residency. Praised by Martha Argerich as an “extraordinary musician” and hailed internationally as a “master of contrasts,” he leads a series of masterclasses and performances for our students.

  
  

• November 23, 2025 – Guest Artist Concert: Zeru Wang
  Dr. Zeru Wang, pianist, scholar, and CAM faculty member, shares a recital featuring both known and lesser-known repertoire. His artistry combines technical mastery with historical insight, offering a performance that reflects his reputation as both performer and pedagogue.

  
  

• January 25, 2026 – Joint Faculty Concert
  Our distinguished faculty, recognized both as gifted teachers and accomplished performers, present an afternoon of solo works for piano and cello. Featured performers include Maxwell Adkisson, Isaac Berglind, Chelsea Bloomberg, Chen Liang, and Ross Salvosa.

  
  

• March 1, 2026 – Alumni & Honors Students in Concert
  We welcome back CAM graduates alongside our rising stars. Distinguished alumni Robert Yan and Shichu (David) Liu join top Honors Students for a celebratory concert that showcases both legacy and the future of CAM talent.

  
  

• March 29, 2026 – Founders’ Concert
  As founders and directors of CAM, Dr. Ivona Kaminska and Dr. Christopher Bowlby share the stage in a rare joint performance. Their program combines solo and four-hand works, highlighting both beloved repertoire and hidden gems.

  
  

• April 26, 2026 – Guest Artist Concert: Sean Terada Yang & Cezary Karwowski
  Closing the anniversary season are Sean Terada Yang (Collegiate Gold Medalist, SIPC 2024) and Cezary Karwowski (Collegiate Silver Medalist, SIPC 2024) in a joint recital of virtuosic solo works. Together, they promise a finale filled with dazzling technique and inspired artistry.
  Masterclass: April 25.

  
  

Looking Ahead

The 20th Anniversary Season is more than a celebration of the past—it is a launchpad for the future. Through guest concerts, faculty and alumni recitals, and an extraordinary series of masterclasses, we reaffirm our mission: to nurture artistry, inspire passion, and build a community of musicians prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

We invite you to join us for this extraordinary year of music.

The post 20 Years of Music appeared first on Chopin Academy of Music.

Starting Lessons: What Parents Should Know about Cello

Private cello lessons in Issaquah and Sammamish with an experienced cello teacher can make all the difference. Many students begin on the cello through school orchestra programs, but often without individualized attention. Over time, self-taught or band-only cellists may develop unintentional habits—like tension in the shoulders, faulty bow grip, or improper finger placement—that become harder to correct later.

At the Chopin Academy of Music, our cello teachers in Sammamish and Issaquah help students establish solid technique and artistic confidence from the very beginning.

We also guide parents through instrument rentals and purchases, helping you find a properly sized cello that’s affordable and reliable. Not sure where to start? Check out Music & Arts in Issaquah for quality student rentals.

Why Take Cello Lessons in Issaquah and Sammamish at the Chopin Academy of Music?

Students enrolled in private cello lessons at the Chopin Academy enjoy a rich musical environment designed to nurture talent and confidence. In addition to weekly one-on-one instruction, we offer:

• Monthly student recitals for performance experience

• Group performance classes to build poise and artistry

• Optional exam and competition tracks for motivated students

• Prestigious performance opportunities at Benaroya Hall, Meydenbauer Center, and even Carnegie Hall in New York City

Our Academy in Issaquah welcomes students from Sammamish, Bellevue, and beyond. Whether your child dreams of pursuing music professionally or simply wants a creative outlet, our cello program offers the structure, support, and inspiration they need to thrive.

Ready to Begin? Discover the Cello Today

There’s never been a better time to explore the cello. From its emotional power to its flexibility across musical genres, this instrument continues to captivate students and audiences alike.

📍 Located in Issaquah and serving the Sammamish community, the Chopin Academy of Music is ready to help your child begin their journey.

👉 Learn more about our Cello Lessons
📞 Or Contact Us to schedule a trial lesson or speak with a cello instructor today.

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This summer marks a truly momentous occasion for the Chopin Academy of Music (CAM)—our 20th anniversary in the heart of Issaquah, Washington. From our humble beginnings to our evolution into one of the region’s most esteemed institutions for classical music education, we are filled with gratitude as we look back on two decades of artistry, growth, and unforgettable performances.

Whether you’re a current CAM family from Issaquah, a student traveling from Sammamish, or an alumnus who began your musical journey with us years ago, this is a celebration for our entire community.

🎶 A Year-Long Festival of Music and Inspiration

To honor this special 20-year milestone, CAM is preparing a full slate of special events and performances throughout the 2025–2026 academic year. Our goal is to make this anniversary not only a reflection on the past, but a launchpad for the next generation of musicians.

Here’s what you can expect:

• World-renowned guest artists performing exclusive recitals and leading masterclasses for CAM students.

• Opportunities to participate in student recitals at exciting new venues beyond our usual stages.

• Engaging events that unite our music community across Issaquah, Sammamish, and the greater Eastside.

These experiences will give our students access to inspirational performances and hands-on learning that go beyond the classroom. It’s a chance to celebrate not just how far we’ve come, but where our music can take us next.

🎹 A New Instrument for a New Chapter

In honor of this important anniversary, the Chopin Academy of Music has also invested in a brand-new, high-level concert piano that will become the primary instrument of the Chopin Recital Hall. This exceptional instrument will be available for use during:

• Performance classes

• Small recitals

• Special events

Whether you’re performing a polished sonata or presenting a work-in-progress to peers, this new piano will offer an inspiring platform for musical expression. For students from Sammamish and nearby cities who regularly attend classes in Issaquah, this is a meaningful upgrade that enriches every playing opportunity.

📅 Stay Tuned

We’ll be unveiling more details in the coming months—including the names of our featured guest artists, full event schedules, and exciting updates on venues. Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox and follow us on social media so you don’t miss a single note of this year-long celebration.

This 20th anniversary is more than a milestone—it’s a tribute to every student, parent, teacher, and music lover who has been part of the Chopin Academy of Music family. From Issaquah to Sammamish and beyond, thank you for making these past two decades extraordinary. Here’s to the next 20 years of music, inspiration, and excellence.

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We are thrilled to announce the details of the 2025 Honors Recital, one of the most anticipated events of the year for students enrolled in our Exam Track and Competition Track programs. This formal celebration of excellence will take place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the prestigious Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall in downtown Seattle.

Whether you’re a family of gifted musicans from Issaquah, Sammamish, or the greater Eastside area, this is a wonderful opportunity to see your hard work culminate in a performance on one of the finest stages in the region.

🗓️ Important Recital Day Details

The day will be divided into three programs to accommodate student performers:

• 1:00 PM

• 3:30 PM

• 5:30 PM

Each studio will be assigned to a specific recital time. More information about your assigned slot will be shared in the coming weeks, but please plan to reserve the entire afternoon so your family is ready for whichever performance window your student is assigned.

🎓 Who Participates?

The Honors Recital is not open to all students by default—it is a privilege extended to students enrolled in the Exam Track or Competition Track, and only those who have met all the following requirements will be considered eligible to perform and receive their certificate of completion for the 2024–25 academic year:

✅ Requirements at a Glance

1. Fulfill all requirements set by the primary instructor
   Refer to your personalized Exam Projection Sheet located in your student profile.

2. Complete Exam 1 (Winter) and Exam 2 (Spring)
   Participation in both is mandatory for recital eligibility.

3. Perform in at least three group events throughout the year
   These include general student recitals, masterclasses, or performance classes.

4. Participate in at least one outside music festival or competition
   This must include at least one educational festival presented by the Seattle International Piano Festival (SIPF), such as the Bach Festival, Classical Viennese Festival, or Virtuoso Artists Festival. Additional festivals and competitions may supplement this requirement.

5. Attend at least one professional classical music performance
   Observing live performances is essential to artistic growth. Issaquah and Sammamish families are encouraged to take advantage of local events at Benaroya Hall and Meany Center to meet this requirement.

6. Audition and be accepted to perform in the Honors Recital
   Live audition takes place during Exam 2. No recorded auditions will be accepted.

🎵 Upcoming Concerts to Consider for Observation

Attending a professional-level concert is not only inspiring but required for Honors Recital qualification. Below are a few events ideal for meeting this goal:

Benaroya Hall – Seattle Symphony & Visiting Artists

• Saturday, April 5 – Los Angeles Guitar Quartet

• Thursday, April 10 – Tiffany Poon, pianist

• Saturday, April 26 – Evgeny Kissin: Performance & Discussion (Highly Recommended!)

Meany Center for the Performing Arts – University of Washington

• Tuesday, May 13 – Jonathan Biss, pianist

Students in Sammamish and Issaquah often find these events accessible and enriching. Consider organizing a family outing or studio field trip!

📌 Mid-Year Check-In

With June fast approaching, now is the perfect time for a mid-year tally of accomplishments. Many students discover they are short on group performances or haven’t yet attended a qualifying concert. Avoid last-minute scrambles—review your progress now and plan your remaining performances accordingly.

The 2025 Honors Recital isn’t just about celebrating talent—it’s about honoring the dedication, consistency, and growth each student has shown throughout the year. Families from Issaquah to Sammamish will be proud to see their students shine on the stage at Benaroya Hall.

For more information, including the full list of policies and requirements, consult the 2024–25 CAM Agreementavailable in your Shared Resources tab.

We can’t wait to celebrate your accomplishments in June—see you at Benaroya!

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At the Chopin Academy of Music, we strive to inspire our students to achieve their fullest potential, and part of that process means seeing and hearing the best musicians in action. After all, how can you know what’s truly possible on your instrument unless you witness a professional, in-the-moment performance? Music lessons and student recitals alone cannot convey the depth of artistry that we, as musicians, strive to achieve. That is why attending live classical music events is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Classical Music is an Endangered Species

It’s alarming to consider, but classical music, in many ways, is endangered. Unlike other forms of entertainment, it requires tremendous support—not just financial backing but also live attendance. Government funding is minimal, and without listeners filling concert halls, classical music simply cannot survive. While technology has made music more accessible than ever, recordings and online streaming platforms like YouTube or Spotify can never replicate the unique energy, emotion, and nuance of a live performance.

Music is a living art. It depends on an active relationship between performers and listeners, which can only exist when you’re sitting in the audience, witnessing it unfold before your eyes and ears. The question is not just about supporting the music financially, but showing up, being present, and participating as an engaged listener.

A Symbiotic Relationship: Performer and Listener

Classical music cannot exist in a vacuum. It relies on a symbiotic relationship between performers, audiences, and the greater artistic community. True artistry doesn’t happen for personal gain or glory, but as a shared experience. It’s not enough to perform for awards or college applications. What gives music its meaning is community support—whether that’s supporting a peer, attending performances, or celebrating those at the top of their field. Without live participation, classical music risks becoming a selfish, isolated activity—far from the communal experience it was meant to be.

Since COVID, we’ve noticed an alarming trend: concert attendance is way down. People have become more insular, more private, seemingly satisfied with online activities from the comfort of their homes. But this trend must change. The COVID pandemic itself was devastating to live music events, with nearly two years during which very little happened. Imagine that—an entire discipline or art form can simply vanish because it ceases to exist. That is how fragile classical music is. If we don’t return to live events, the fabric of our cultural society will slowly unravel. What’s left behind if we cease to actively support and attend live music performances? The truth is that nothing can replace the experience of being there—to hear the rise and fall of a pianist’s dynamics or to feel the swell of a live orchestra. The future of classical music depends on us, and on you.

We know attending live events can be inconvenient. For our students and families in Issaquah and Sammamish, the idea of crossing Lake Washington and traveling to Seattle for a concert can feel like an added burden. Then, there’s homework, sports, and extracurricular activities—things that seem to pile up and leave little time for the arts. But we need to ask ourselves, can anything truly substitute for the experience of attending live music? Classical music is irreplaceable, and as busy as we all are, it’s important to remember that art and music deserve a place in our schedules too.

Last weekend’s Seattle International Piano Competition—an event that was created specifically to inspire our students—saw a disappointingly low turnout from the Chopin Academy of Music community. Only about 3% of our students attended. How often do we get to hear the world’s next generation of piano greats in one place, right in our city? The SIPC was a rare opportunity to witness something truly exceptional, and many missed out. We hope that moving forward, our students will take advantage of such opportunities, not just for personal enjoyment but as a commitment to the art of classical music and to their own growth as musicians.

We invite you, our students and families, to make attending live classical music events a priority. Whether it’s a concert at Benaroya Hall or a piano recital here in the city, it’s time to step outside of our routines and support the very art form that inspires us all. Together, we can keep classical music alive for generations to come.

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We are excited to announce the launch of the new Chopin Academy of Music (CAM) website portal, designed to make your musical journey smoother and more organized than ever before. Whether you’re a student from Issaquah, Sammamish, or beyond, this portal is your one-stop resource for managing your lessons, staying on top of your schedule, and accessing important information.

Our new portal, powered by the TeachWorks platform, offers a range of features that will enhance your learning experience and keep you connected with your instructors. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the key tools available to you:

1. Easy Access to Lesson Notes

Say goodbye to forgotten assignments and unclear practice instructions. With the CAM website portal, you can access detailed lesson notes for each of your lessons, and all registered children. Your instructor will provide feedback, practice suggestions, and any other important details you need to work on between sessions. This feature ensures that you always know exactly what to focus on, helping you make the most of your practice time. You will also receive them in an email after each lesson has concluded.

2. Comprehensive Calendar

Keeping track of your lesson schedule has never been easier. The portal includes a comprehensive calendar that shows all your upcoming lessons, events, and important dates. Whether you’re planning around school activities in Issaquah or family commitments in Sammamish, you can view and manage your schedule with ease. You’ll also receive reminders to help you stay on top of your commitments.

3. Seamless Communication

Need to get in touch with your instructor or the CAM administrative team? The portal provides a simple way to reach us with any questions or concerns. Whether it’s a last-minute schedule change or a question about your lesson materials, we’re just a few clicks away.

4. Centralized Resources

The portal is more than just a scheduling tool—it’s a hub for all your music education needs. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be rolling out additional features that will include practice resources, video tutorials, and more. This centralized approach ensures that everything you need is right at your fingertips, whether you’re at home in Sammamish or on the go in Issaquah.

5. Future Enhancements

We’re committed to making the CAM website portal a powerful tool for our students and their families. In upcoming blog posts, we’ll be outlining even more features, such as automated billing, detailed progress reports, and other tools to support your musical journey. Stay tuned for more information on how the portal can help you succeed.

How to Get Started

Getting started with the new CAM website portal is easy. Simply log in using the credentials provided by our administrative team, and you’ll have immediate access to all the tools and resources available. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us through the portal’s communication feature. And if you never received your invitation, ping us! We are here to help you in introducing the new CAM website portal.

For our students in Issaquah and Sammamish, this portal is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy lives, making it easier to balance your musical education with other activities. We’re confident that this new system will provide you with the organization and support you need to excel in your studies.

Ready to explore the new CAM website portal? Log in today and take advantage of all the great features we’ve put in place to help you succeed. We’re excited to embark on this new chapter of music education with you!

If you need further assistance accessing or activating your portal, write to issaquah@chopinacademy.com.

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Nestled in the heart of Issaquah, the Chopin Academy of Music has been a cornerstone of our community for over 20 years. For those of us who call Issaquah and Sammamish home, it’s no secret that our region is brimming with young talent. At our school, we’ve had the pleasure of nurturing that talent, helping students discover not just the technical skills of playing an instrument but also a deep, lasting love for classical music.

Classical music study isn’t just about learning to play an instrument—it’s about so much more. The discipline, patience, and critical thinking required to master a piece by Beethoven or Chopin go beyond the music room. Our students develop skills that help them excel in school, sports, and even in their personal lives. They learn the value of hard work and the joy of achieving something truly beautiful through perseverance.

Take the story of Beethoven himself. His father pushed him hard, sometimes too hard, to master the piano. But it was Beethoven’s resilience and eventual love for music that led him to create some of the most iconic compositions in history. His journey shows us that even if the path isn’t always easy, the rewards of sticking with music despite seemingly insurmountable adversity are incredible.

Another great example is Glenn Gould, the Canadian pianist famous for his interpretations of Bach. Gould was introduced to the piano by his mother at a very young age. Interestingly, he didn’t always enjoy the traditional aspects of music study. However, his unique approach and dedication to the art allowed him to develop a style all his own, demonstrating how discipline and creativity can go hand in hand.

And then there’s Sergei Rachmaninoff, who had a bit of a rocky start. As a young student, he struggled with staying focused and almost gave up on music. But with some encouragement from his cousin, a pianist himself, Rachmaninoff rediscovered his passion. His story is a wonderful reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a bit of support and persistence to reignite a love for music.

Here at Chopin Academy of Music, serving Issaquah and Sammamish, we’ve seen similar transformations in our students. Over the years, we’ve witnessed countless young musicians grow from reluctant beginners into confident performers on the world’s most iconic stages who truly love what they do. Our students don’t just learn to play an instrument; they learn to appreciate the beauty of classical music and the satisfaction that comes from mastering a challenging piece.

The success of our students is a reflection of the strong foundation we’ve built over the past two decades. The skills they gain—discipline, focus, and a love for learning—serve them well, whether they choose to pursue music professionally or take these lessons into other areas of their lives.

Issaquah and Sammamish have always been areas rich in talent, and we’re proud to be a regional leader in cultivating a love of music in our students. The Chopin Academy of Music is more than just a school—it’s a place where young musicians come to grow, learn, and find their passion. We’re excited to continue our journey of inspiring the next generation of musicians and seeing where their love of music takes them.

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First is “practice”. Admittedly, this is not a very descriptive term for the work that a student needs to perform at the keyboard or on an instrument. In French, they do not even use this word to describe what is done daily in the practice booth. In that country, they use the term répétition. Take out l’accent aigu, and you know exactly what that word means.

Let’s break it down a little more.

During a practice session, the bulk of activity when working on etudes and musical works is to break it down into important fragments and repeat, hopefully using a variety of different techniques (rhythms, accents, hands separate, etc.) to help drill and even-out the passages. Usually, we focus on the hardest parts in the piece.

Repeating a whole piece from beginning to end does not constitute practice! We’ll contrast that activity with the term, playing. As implied, playing the piano or the violin is fun! It certainly serves a purpose, especially during certain phases of learning a difficult piece. However, playing is hardly the same thing as practicing. Naturally, a beginner will get some benefit from playing through a piece or song over and over, because generally, those exercises are already short, and therefore ripe for repeating in its form. Breaking pieces up into their most difficult components is something more intermediate students learn how to do. Still, a beginner should get accustomed to the idea of playing fragments, even if the song is only two lines long.

As a general observation, we see that almost always a student will sit down to practice their instrument and will start at the beginning. The practice session almost becomes a hypnotic, yet mindless activity of starting at the beginning and playing through, struggling with the hard parts (usually slowing in those places that give the most challenge), and playing more sloppily at the end, if they make it that far at all. This is inevitable because, unconsciously, the student is really practicing the beginning! Isn’t it, by definition, repeating, when a student encounters a very difficult passage, gets stuck, and goes back to the beginning? That’s why the beginning gets better and the middle and end are much slower to shape up to good form (if they ever do, until a student changes their habits).

For our students in Issaquah and Sammamish, practice needs to be conscious. I always encourage my students to start not by putting their hands over the keys, but first trying to remember what they did the previous day during their practice session and ask questions. What worked? What didn’t? What did I neglect that may need more time today? How might I approach the hard bits in a different way this time? What are the hardest places in this sonata?

Now that we have defined what practice is, we can move on to the next, more difficult term…

Slow seems like a simple enough term. However, when observing students in lessons (and after being told over fifty times that most of the practice should be SLOW), they can’t seem to play slowly. I ask them, “Okay, not too bad! Now, can you play that section again here slower?”.

Inevitably, the student repeats the passage at the same, mostly fast speed. “Slower!” I repeat. Same speed. I then clap to demonstrate the new speed, which happens to be just slightly over 50% of the original speed the student attempted.

The young pupil looks back at me wide-eyed. “You mean, you want me to play that slow?!”

Yes. Slow means slow. In other words, we mean significantly slower than the original attempt. Usually, the student tries, and somehow plays worse than they did when struggling near performance tempo. How is this possible?

In short, it proves the student did not play at any different speed at home over the week. Always the same speed. Always starting from the beginning. Naturally, progress can still be made, but it will be slower. This creates a curious, but verifiable paradigm.

Fast playing = slow improvement.

Slow practice = faster improvement.

And we, as teachers, struggle to painfully try to correct the many mistakes that have been reinforced from weeks of fast playing from the beginning of the piece. Usually the student has not changed the fingering that we, as teachers, noted on the score during the past four weeks. And why would they change those fingerings anyway? That’s because it’s impossible to make measured improvement while addressing little detailed corrections at near-full speed without first breaking down a passage. First, one must identify the issues requiring correction. Then, the student needs to play a small fragment, slowly, carefully observing the issues.

At this point, we must also be wary of the wrong-wrong-wrong-wrong-right-move on! trap. Reduce the number of incorrect repetitions, and maximize the correct ones. Often doing a tricky passage five times perfect in a row (or more!) is the track to conquering difficult spots.

Furthermore, practicing (sorry, I meant playing, here) only at top, or near-top speed results in physical tension. It is only natural that as we play through a piece with musical intension and commitment, like in a performance, we add more muscular tension each time. Also, if anyone asks anything of a student outside of starting from the beginning, such as, I don’t know, “start in measure 17”, or “play left hand only over here at this slow speed”, or any number of permutations, a student finds it nearly impossible on first attempts to do those things. That’s because these are the things one should be doing at home during a practice session. Then how might we deal with the stress and distraction of live performance in front of an audience? Exercising these practice strategies and repeating in a multitude of ways makes us more flexible and resilient under stress. If something goes slightly wrong on stage and we haven’t practiced that particular passage on its own inside and out slowly, then we are most likely going to do what we’ve been trained to do — go back and start from the beginning. Uh-oh.

Now, what benefit does slow playing do for us? Before we can answer this, we must identify one more thing that slow practice is not — it is not sleepy, inattentive, or altering of the musical ideas. Slow means not only aware, but hyper-awareness of what one does at the instrument. That means everything from monitoring one’s posture, to imitating the musical text accurately with good fingering, to listening more carefully to the sound, and many more concepts. When one drives along the freeway at 75 mph, it’s nearly impossible to see the dime on the side of the road. That’s what is required of the young musician. Often, when we get students from Issaquah and Sammamish to play slow, they might be able to do so, but their playing becomes lethargic or lacks the same musical intensity as when they play fast. The same musical things (articulation, fingerings, dynamics, intensity of attack, etc) need to be there, and the awareness needs to be perhaps even higher than fast playing.

Learning the art of slow, fragmented repetition allows us to more immediately correct the issues we have and to better translate our ideas into music effectively. It allows us to reduce physical tension and play more at ease, because we learn how to analyze and use the minimum tension necessary to execute difficult passages.

Fast-only playing induces stress. Stress is a fight-or-flight mechanism we all have. It may not be intense like an actual life-or-death situation, but it is essentially the same physical response. This physical response promotes physical tension. It reduces higher brain function to allow muscles to take over. Aren’t we all amazed when a young learner suddenly realizes that they can play through a piece without the music? Usually that means that passive memory has set in driven by the same stress mechanism, which is rarely good. That further entrenches the student into a beginning-to-end concrete-like execution that means disaster if there is a momentary derailing. (Active memorization is a topic for another time…)

Most students do not know what it is like to play with the minimum necessary tension, because they only have experienced the elevated stress of going fast. Naturally, this feeling is still fun. That’s why we like roller-coasters and watching high-speed chases in movies. Still, those roller-coasters rely on engineers who carefully measure safety and mechanical tolerances, and those films are highly choreographed and require tedious planning and frame-by-frame manipulation.

When we repeat slowly, we can put greater attention into all the aspects of playing a piece of music. We know the piece far more deeply. We learn how to play with more physical ease, and we also learn how to gain greater confidence, poise, and resilience under pressure. It’s not difficult to find lots of discussion about the merits of slow practice (here is an article).

Progress happens at home. During lessons, we point out the areas that need improvement, and remedies for them, while educating on what practice really is. Parents at home can gently reinforce when their child starts from the beginning and plays through a piece three times and calls it done. “Didn’t your teacher ask you to slow down?”

Yes. Yes, we did.

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