Follows on from Episode 50 and 51

Music scholar

The musical journey is long and hard. I met a 15 yr old who spent 10 years playing the cello. I think it is the environment, mentality and attention to detail that makes the difference.

*Author is not a musician.

Edinburgh Music Competition Festival

This annual music competition gives young and old musicians opportunities to play in both competitive or non-competitive environments and in front of expert adjudicators. They provide quality feedback and encouragement on the musicians’ journey. Entry to this competition is important and requires the right music teachers to support. The musicians can build their confidence by playing in different venues and in front of strangers.

There were 3 string instrument teachers who played with their students in duets. I do admire those three teachers who gave their time to prepare and perform a piece with their students and in doing so, giving them a duet opportunity that the adjudicators focus on the interaction, the eye-contact and the dynamics between the two players. The three teachers are incredibly committed to teach the best musicians they could.

To be a Musical Scholar

1. Desire – They want to be good at it.
2. Find a great tutor – Online or in person.* Preferably both / more musical inputs. However most people are resource limited therefore will have to be selective for the right option
   • Online is great for efficiency as explained in Episode 50. however, the basic technique seems to be more difficult that an in-person teacher.
   • Teachers in the same city are good for additional connections, small groups, and also develop a good technical foundation.
3. Get into a music school – One would need a good audition. Desire (again), talent and musicality. I think all three are required. What does music mean to you?
4. Need to listen to a huge collection of music – A huge list from a music school. – Episode 51
5. Need to work on music theory.
6. Play at small groups with similar level / talent
7. Discipline and enjoyment – Practise has to be disciplined with a purpose and at the same time enjoyable.
8. Play in competitions or concerts.

My personal opinion is that the right in-person tutor opened up the small group, and competitions / concerts opportunities. Other aspects to concentrate on such as listening to more music from the huge list and discussing musical theory with the child. I think from age 5 to 9 is an age where big strides can happen because there are fewer subjects at school. I think online music tutors are good for students with a solid foundation.