September, 2012

Theme for this month:  Classic musicals

Composers: Rodgers and Hammerstein

       Richard Rodgers was born in 1902, Oscar Hammerstein was born in 1895.  Together as musician and lyricist, they were able to successfully produce several Broadway musicals, five of which became blockbusters.  Before working together they both found success working with other collaborators. In the early 1940's, Rodgers approached Hammerstein and asked if he would consider working with him.  Their first production, "Oklahoma", became one of the most successful musicals of all time.

       Rodgers and Hammerstein went on to produce other hits such as, "Carousel", "State Fair", "South Pacific", "The King and I", "Flower Drum Song", and "The Sound of Music:".  These shows changed the face of modern musicals, focusing on much more serious subject matter than productions of the early 1920's.  Hammerstein died in 1960, Rodgers in 1979.

Activity:  Whole and half step game

Piano Recital, Spring 2012

I recently moved from Nauvoo, IL to Kimberly, ID.  While in Illinois, I was privileged with a wonderful group of hardworking and bright students to work with.  We held a recital in April to celebrate our accomplishments throughout the year.  The theme for the month was classical music. My more advanced students studied entire pieces while each beginner learned a movement or excerpt of a piece.  The recital went very well and I was incredibly proud of everyone.  Thanks to each one of these students and their parents for such a great experience!