All the special events listed in this section are beneficial for developing a student's musical skills.  The greatest value is in the preparation for each event, not necessarily in the performance itself or in the results of a contest.  Having specific goals (and a deadline!) in mind during weeks or months of practicing can be very motivating and keep a musician focused on achieving those goals.

A live performance is a very unique experience.  Each performance helps a pianist get used to playing in front of other people, learn how to stay focused and relaxed, and learn how much preparation (and what kind of preparation) is needed in order to play well.  In this day of perfectly mastered recordings, I think we come to expect a higher level of perfection than is really possible.  The 'perfect' performance is an illusive beast.  It is an area about which we all continually learn more.  Playing frequently for others helps us to develop a healthier perspective about the nature of live performance.  (Sometimes we play beautifully, other times...well...not so much.)  We also become pianists who are more comfortable sharing our music with others.

No event is ever a 'required' event for my students.  Each individual can decide which activities would be the most enjoyable and/or beneficial.  In spite of the two competitive events listed below, I am not big on contests (or encouraging students to try to win them).  They do have great value for a small number of students, however.  I would like ALL my students to participate in the studio classes, the Guild Auditions and the annual recital and will heartily encourage them to do so.  (Consider yourself warned!)

The first lesson in the fall, and the first lesson after the holiday break will generally be the times when we will discuss and decide which events you want to participate in and choose music for each.  Please read about the following activities to see which ones interest you the most.   If you choose Full-Length Solo Recital at Carnegie Hall as your first choice, please let me know as soon as possible...