The Piano Studio of Linda Featherston
Linda Featherston
Overland Park, KS 66214
Phone: (913) 599-1586
featherston@everestkc.net
I am a nationally certified teacher of music. This means that I have taken an extensive test on teaching piano and that I maintain continuing education hours on a yearly basis.
Practicing tip: Are you looking for a day that your children can "take off" from practicing? Try "Friday Free Day!" Instead of practicing only their regular materials or just taking a day off, students get to choose what they play that day. Students should choose pieces they have already played, not new music, that are in the books they are currently working on. They should still play carefully and correctly. Set the timer for 15 minutes and away they go. Giving students the ability to choose what they play gives them a sense of empowerment and reminds them that playing the piano is fun and not all work.
Listed below are events in which my students participate.
Fall Festival - This event is held in October. Each year, it features a different period of music (i.e. Classical, Romantic, Baroque). Student prepare one memorized piece to be played on a 30-minute, adjudicated recital. Students receive ribbons based on their score and accumulate points that can eventually earn plaques.
KMTA Honors Auditions - These auditions have two levels, district and state. Students receive written comments and a rating and are eligible for medals and cash prizes at the state level. Students must be rated "state eligible" at the district level to proceed to the state level. Students prepare 2 - 3 memorized pieces.
Multi Piano Concert - Held in February, this event allows students to be part of a piano orchestra of sorts. 18 pianos are assembled onstage, with a duet team at each piano. All teams join together on the same duet to create an exciting ensemble.This event is a great opportunity for students to play in an ensemble situation. Students learn to follow a conductor and listen to and blend with others. It is also a great opportunity to work on counting skills. Finally, this event enables students to interact with other pianists from around the area.
Music Progressions - This is my favorite of all events. Students prepare two pieces, one memorized and one not. They are also evaluated on scales, rhythms, sight reading, chords and cadences, theory - both written and played, and listening. Basically every aspect of playing the piano is covered. It is a great opportunity to see where a student may have weaknesses and a great way to get positive feedback and helpful suggestions.
Piano Guild Auditions - Students prepare a number of memorized pieces to be graded by a judge. My students usually prepare between 3 and 6 pieces, but more can be prepared as desired. Student receive positive and negative marks on all aspects of performance from hand position to phrasing to poise. They earn a certificate and pin. This event is the best vehicle for positive marks.