Piano Party

Marina's piano teacher arranged a Christmas party for her students where they could have cookies and play the Christmas songs they have learned in an informal setting. Marina was looking forward to it. She’s been working on “Silent Night” for a couple of weeks. Recently she added “Away in a Manger” as well.

When we arrived she was in a bit of a bad mood. She had a couple of cookies, and checked out the piano. Her teacher called the kids around the piano and they all sang Christmas carols together before the recital began.

Once the kids started playing, Marina was excited. As she waited her turn, I could see her practicing the fingering of her songs. She volunteered to go early. She did very well on “Silent Night.” At one point she got stuck and it took her a moment to figure out the next note. Once she did, she finished quickly. I was even more impressed with “Away in a Manger.” She hasn’t been playing it as long, so she pretty much just sight read it.

After the recital was over, Marina had more cookies and a candy cane. She was pretty happy with that as well.

Christmas Concert

Marina was anxious to take piano lessons again this year. I think she has finally realized she can make music when she plays. Miss Patty arranged for a Christmas concert today and Marina was excited to take part. She practiced for several weeks to get ready. She was nervous and excited today. But she did really well!

Piano Recital

Marina performed her first piano recital today. Miss Patty, her teacher, had scheduled her to play third. But Marina requested to go sixth, because she is six years old. So Miss Patty agreed. Marina played two very short pieces, "Freight Train" and "Key of C" (better known to us as the Turkey Song). She seemed quite comfortable in front of everyone.



After she was done she was so proud of herself! The hard part for her was waiting for everyone else to play their songs before she could have cake!