Performance Masterclasses in Music Lessons
- Morin Music
After decades of offering music lessons in Calgary to thousands of students each year, we’ve been able to witness first hand the growth that comes through the process.
Learning an insrument is more than learning to play. It’s an invaluable vehicle to grow in confidence and to develop countless skills that transfer to all areas of your life.
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The art of sharing music
Learning to play a musical instrument is much more than mastering notes and
techniques; it’s about learning to connect and share through the universal language of music. For parents of children enrolled in our music classes in Calgary, understanding the multifaceted nature of music education is vital so that they can support each valuable piece of the journey.
Performance, often perceived as a natural skill, is in reality another aspect that requires nurturing and development. This is where performance masterclasses come into play, offering a unique platform for young musicians to grow.
The need for performance skills in Music Lessons
One common misconception is that the ability to perform is innate. However, just like playing an instrument, performing is a skill that needs to be cultivated. In music education, practicing and playing are just part of the journey.
The ability to perform confidently and connect with an audience is equally crucial. Masterclasses provide a supportive environment where students can practice this art, building confidence and competence in their performance skills.
A supportive arena for growth
Performance masterclasses are not just about showcasing talent; they are educational
experiences in a classroom setting. In these sessions, students learn the nuances of
performance preparation, including how to greet and acknowledge their audience.
This environment allows them to understand and express the emotions tied to performing,
such as nervousness or excitement, and to recognize these feelings as a normal part of the learning process. Masterclasses offer guidance and coaching, helping students
navigate the emotional landscape of public performance.
- Individualized weekly instruction
- Performance preparation in masterclasses
- Community concerts
- ormal student recitals
Developing critical listening and active engagement
An often-overlooked benefit of participating in masterclasses is the development of active and critical listening skills. Music making is an exchange between the performer and the audience.
In our performance masterclasses, students learn to expand on their own private music lessons by performing for others others and recognizing elements they have learned in their own lessons. This not only enhances their understanding of music but also deepens their engagement with it.
The Benefits of The “Testing Effect”
The Testing Effect in psychology refers to the phenomenon where the long-term memory retention of information is enhanced by being tested on that information, compared to merely re-reading or reviewing it.
This principle is particularly relevant in learning a musical instrument. When our students practice performing and actively test their skills—such as playing a piece for their classmates or from memory —they engage in deeper cognitive processing, reinforcing their musical knowledge and technical skills more effectively than practicing alone.
This active retrieval practice leads to better performance and more robust learning, as it requires them to recall and apply information in a dynamic and often challenging context, mirroring the conditions of more formal performance.
Self-Discovery and personal growth through music lessons
Finally, masterclasses are a journey of self-discovery. Performing in front of an
audience, especially for young learners, is a step out of their comfort zone. It’s a challenge that fosters personal growth and resilience.
Discussing their experiences in a supportive environment helps students reflect on their journey, understanding that every performance, regardless of its outcome, is a valuable learning experience.
Embracing the journey
For parents, understanding the value of performance masterclasses in music education is crucial. These classes are not just about learning to play an instrument; they are about learning to communicate, to listen, and to grow.
They are opportunities for young musicians to step beyond their comfort zones, to connect with others, and to discover more about themselves. In the end, the lessons learned in masterclasses extend far
beyond the notes on the page; they are lessons for life.
Performance masterclasses are a core component of our 4-part program framework for all of our private instruction students. They are valuable experiences to prepare students for formal performance.
To learn more about the many benefits of participating in formal recitals, read our article: Student Music Recitals: Harmonizing Skills and Confidence.
These Masterclasses are offered at regular intervals throughout the school year for our students, and we encourage our students of all ages and levels to participate.
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