I know I could not make the right decisions for Katja without the the guidance, help, and support of her wonderful teachers. We had a mission this weekend- to buy Katja's first viola. The Mission was accomplished successfully thanks to the dedication, knowledge, connections, experience and love of children and music of her two private teachers. Since all I was good for was driving Katja to San Antonio to the Texas Music Educators' Convention where vendors from all over the US convened this past weekend, I took pictures to preserve the memories. The pictures tell the story.
1. Before we arrived in Town her teachers were busy narrowing down the options.
2. Once we arrived we lost no time getting started.
3. This is only the right side of one of the two the Expo Halls...
4. With thousands of people talking and trying out instruments simultaneously it was impossible to be make an informed decision with regards to tone quality within the hall.
5. It was surprising to me how we were allowed to take valuable musical instruments to a hotel room so we could play them in a quiet environment. Apparently a common practice. It helped, of course, that the salespeople knew the teachers by reputation. I just had to take a picture of Katja walking through the hotel/convention carrying three instruments. No one even gave her a second look.
6. Once in the hotel Katja took turns playing each viola several times while her teachers listened.
7. Her teachers listened to each instrument without looking at it so as not to be influenced by make or looks.
8. Then her teachers played the instruments with their eyes closed to assess feel and sound from the player's perspective.
9. Mrs. Brosvik played each instrument again (eyes open) while Mrs. Meitz listened (still not looking). This allowed us to hear what the instrument would potentially sound in the hands of a pro. (no offense Katja!)
10. The Winner, by unanimous choice was Viola #3 - a 15" Pedersen from Robertson & Sons out of New Mexico. Not a typical instrument for a 7th grader, we were informed, more appropriate for a High School All-Stater. I guess we picked a good one!
11. All were QUITE pleased with the purchase.
12. But we were not finished yet. Apparently, she still was in need of a new bow.
13. So more shopping was on the agenda. Katja did not mind one little bit.
After a physically and emotionally exhausting afternoon and some really fantastic music by some of the most promising young musicians in the state of texas we celebrated over a wonderful dinner complete with steaks and Pinot Noir!
My heartfelt thanks go to Mrs. Brosvik and Mrs. Meitz! It is teachers like you that make a difference in the lives of children and their futures. You are a credit to your profession. I know my child's life is even more wonderfully blessed because of your part in it.
No comments:
Post a Comment