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Many years ago ...
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| My Concert Performance after winning a PROVINCIAL SILVER MEDAL for my Grade 8 Exam |
When I was 4 years old, I began Piano Lessons under the direction
of a wonderful teacher named Mrs. Beatrice Costigan in Blairmore, Alberta. She taught me until I was almost 17
years old. I completed Grades 1 through 9 with the Western Board of Music (now called Conservatory Canada). She
also taught me Theory (Rudiments I-IV) and Harmony.
Under her direction, I competed bi-annually in festivals held in Blairmore and Lethbridge
(solos and duets). I thoroughly enjoyed the competition and did well every year.
I learned to be poised under pressure, prepare for performance and most of all, I learned that
I LOVE TO PLAY THE PIANO!
She taught me to appreciate a variety of styles and composers and was the most musical and
professional influence of my journey. The discipline, confidence and artistry I learned at her side carried me
through Boarding School, College and University.
My Professional Journey begins ...
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| Christmas Party at Cathy's! Everyone enjoyed the "Anatomy of a Piano" lesson |
My husband and I have three beautiful children. Shortly after our
third child was born, I decided to become a stay-at-home mom.
During this time, I was introduced to Mrs. Catherine Hooge. She was teaching at
our local church (Crossroads Community Church) and after hearing that I had a musical background, inquired if I would
like to teach under her direction. I agreed ... and so began our cherished friendship,
musical partnership and my Professional Journey as a Piano Teacher.
After two years of teaching at the church, I was able to purchase a beautiful Grand Piano and
start teaching from my home: MUSIC FOR THE SOUL was born!
The majority of my students are STILL with me today (after almost 7 years!) Cathy is
still a close friend and encourages me professionally as we travel our musical journey side
by side.
Education, Experience and Enthusiasm!
| My beautiful 200 year old MacPhail Grand Piano |
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| Click on the photo to reach the LONDON COLLEGE OF MUSIC website |
As I continued on my Professional Journey, I began to realize that
I had a growing desire to learn MORE about being a Piano Teacher. I was struggling professionally with evaluating
students and choosing programs to fit the diverse learning styles and skill levels. It was then that another amazing
opportunity presented itself.
About 3 years ago, I was introduced to the next Piano Teacher who
would help shape my musical journey, Mrs. Marian Parrott. In addition to achieving multiple certifications in
Piano Pedagogy, Marian is the London College of Music representative for Alberta.
Through her direction and support, I was able to accomplish both my Associate and Licentiate
certification levels in Piano Pedagogy with the London College of Music (Thames Valley University, UK).
Through Marian, I have learned to explore my creative tendencies, renewed my love of musical
academia and most of all, become a caring and confident Piano Teacher.
The greatest influences of all ...
My Musical Biography would not be complete without including
my parents! I must credit them with immeasurable academic, emotional and financial support over
the many years I have been on this musical path.
For many years, my mother came to my weekly lessons at Mrs. Costigan's house and sat quietly
at the back of the room, listening to every instruction, correction and encouragement I received. She structured my
practice times, eased my nerves before performances, freely gave words of praise and encouraging hugs(regardless of my
skill) and shared every musical triumph with me along the way!
My father simply delighted in every note I ever played - he still does. He would request
impromptu 'practice sessions' as he napped on the couch near the piano, drove to every out-of-town festival (taking my mother
and I out to our favourite, fancy restaurant as a traditional celebration) and still sends congratulatory cards
as I continue to achieve my musical and pedagogical goals!
Thanks, Mom and Dad!
A Shared Belief ...
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| Johann Sebastian Bach, 1685-1750 |
So ... as I continue on this Musical Journey, among my Musical Community;
learning, growing, guiding and giving, I will continue to endeavour to share the sentiments of one of my favourite composers
of ALL time, Mr. Johann Sebastian Bach:
"The aim and final end of all music should be non other than the glory of God
and the refreshment of the soul."
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