VALERIE

During my first year with Beatrice, I am told that I spent a

whole lesson sitting under a chair in her studio unwilling

to do anything. Violin just wasn’t for me, so I tried to quit.

I can vividly remember sitting in the car for about half an

hour in the parking lot outside of the old MacPhail while

my dad went to my lesson after I told him that I was done

playing violin. He’d simply said, “Okay” and left. By the

time he had returned, I’d grumpily decided that I wasn’t

actually going to quit.

Well, I am so thankful that I didn’t quit that day, although I

don’t really know if my parents would have given up that

easily. For me, the most influential thing about growing up

with violin was the connections that I made. Connections

with the music, my family, and other people. Both of my

parents and my sister play the violin. And most members

of my extended family also play an instrument. Some of

my fondest memories are of large family gatherings where

everyone took a turn performing for the rest of the family.

Violin gave me the chance to be a part of such a vibrant

family tradition. I have also made two good friends who

are both also in Beatrice’s studio through studio recitals

and Saturday mornings.

The first time that I performed onstage, I was nervous

about being in front of a crowd of people but not about

my actual performance of taking a bow with my super

exciting box violin. Today, I am no longer nervous about

playing in front of a crowd, but I am nervous about playing

my piece well…

KATIE

I vaguely remember sitting on the armrest of my Papa’s

old leather chair on New Year’s Eve listening to Joshua Bell

play with the Boston Philharmonic. I was mesmerized.

Later I saw Yo-Yo Ma play on Sesame Street, and I was

hooked. I told my mom that I wanted to play the tiny cello

that you hold on your shoulder. My parents figured out

that I meant a violin. I began to take lessons with Mark

Mutter at the Suzuki Royal Oak Institute of Music in

Michigan. When I moved to Minnesota, it took me a few

years to get my footing in a new place, but when I found

MacPhail in the sixth grade, I finally found my home. I

study with Margaret Haviland, and her studio is a special

place for me.

Through my practice I have found solace on my hardest

days, calmness in my most stressful moments, and joy

when I most need it. I have learned to slow down, to

focus, and to think critically; however, practice can also be

playful and uplifting. It can be meditative as I lose track of

the daily noise and lose myself in my music. School has

been a winding road, and if I were to do it all again, I

would spend less time doing homework and more time

practicing my violin. To paraphrase Mark Twain, I fear I

may have let schooling get in the way of my education a

few too many times over the course of my career.

I have begun to notice that skills from my violin education

influence my life in unexpected ways. I find that

scheduling time to practice and making a routine is as

effective in math as it is in violin. In a chamber orchestra

setting, I become hyper aware of the people around me as

I listen for notes, bowings, tempo, and how I blend into

the sound. I have been finding that these skills can carry

over into group settings helping me identify the most

effective way to contribute. I may not be a music major in

college, but I will of course take with me my violin and the

skills I have gathered along my journey.

I have had some incredible opportunities so far in my

violin career. Looking back, I have played in Orchestra Hall,

in the lobby of the United Nations in New York, and at the

Ordway. As of this spring I will have played two of the

great symphonies: Dvorak’s New World Symphony and

Tchaikovsky’s Symphony Pathétique, as well as the 1812

overture, and Holst’s Jupiter. Jupiter will always have a

special place in my heart, as each year every GTCYS violin

stands together to play the final chorus. This year I get to

be on stage playing in the Symphony Orchestra, a goal I

have had since my first GTCYS rehearsal.

I did not realize how much opportunity I have had until

this year, as I watch a chapter coming to a close. Each

concert feels like a last – my last GTCYS Fall Festival, my

last high school movie concert, my last play in, and soon I

will play at Orchestra Hall for the last time. Today is the

finale of my time at MacPhail, a bittersweet yet exciting

moment as I step out into the great big world. I am

grateful for each person who played a part in my journey

so far. Every conductor, stand partner, group class, and

orchestra friends have broadened my perspective and

made me a more whole person. I would like to thank each

of you. Thank you, Margaret, for your never-ending

patience while holding me to a high standard. You have

taught me more than how to play the individual notes, but

what they mean and how to put them out into the world.

Most of all I would like to thank my parents. Your hard

work has not gone unnoticed.

PHILLIP

AARON

Playing the piano has been a part of my life since I was 5

years old, though, I can’t exactly remember why I decided

to play the piano. I just know I started playing it because,

at the time, my sister was playing the viola at MacPhail,

and my parents also wanted me to play an instrument. I

remember being asked which instrument I wanted to play.

I originally wanted to play a string instrument but

something about the piano was just more appealing.

Throughout the years of my musical journey, MacPhail’s

dedication to music is something I will always appreciate.

In particular, I would like to thank Richard Stanton, my

first piano teacher who taught me for over ten years and

developed my passion for music, and Beth Turco, who I've

had the pleasure of studying under for the past couple of

years. They are both extremely caring teachers who have

helped me become more expressive and creative. Growing

up with music has benefitted my life greatly and I

appreciate the invaluable work they have done.

I would also like to thank my parents who have been there

since the beginning. They have spent countless hours

driving me to lessons and pushing me to practice. Without

them, I would never have the joy of music in my world.

NICK

I started playing Suzuki classical guitar when I was 5 years

old. At that time I was somewhat afraid of the guitar. I was

really bad at it and I did not know how to read music. I

was scared of playing the guitar and I spent most of the

first group guitar classes literally under my father’s chair

because I did not want to join the circle.

I like music a lot and I like playing guitar. It allows me to be

expressive with myself. I also play the violin, though I did

not study this at MacPhail. I am in my high school’s

highest orchestra and I’m looking forward to our tour of

Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic in March of

2019.

My main guitar teacher has been James Flegel but I have

also had group lessons with Jean Seils and Brent Weaver.

Jim is my favorite teacher. He is very understanding and

does his job teaching me very well and patiently. I would

like to thank Jim because he is an awesome teacher,

respectful, patient and kind to me. Being in Jean’s class

made me more of a leader and it was fun because she is

such a fun person.

One of the highlights of my guitar journey was when I

played a piece in front of my whole middle school at the

annual variety show. Some other highlights of my guitar

journey are becoming very good at a complicated song

and actually liking it and willingly practicing it. Two of my

favorite classical guitar pieces now are Sounds of Bells by

Guimaraes and Prelude by Bach both from Suzuki Guitar

Book 7. They tell a story and I like playing songs when I

feel they have a meaning.

QUELISTE

Before I ever began lessons, playing an instrument

sounded like the most exciting experience in the world.

As a baby, I learned to hum concertos before I could

speak, growing in my love for music as I grew older. At the

age of five, I begged my parents to take me to MacPhail; I

wanted to be as musically skilled as my older brothers

whom I had watched practice since birth. After the initial

wonder of taking lessons wore off, however, I began to

dread practicing and to resent my parents for making me

do so. Forgetting my previous passion, I felt hopeless. To

me, music was something some people were good at and

others weren’t. More times than not I labeled myself as

one of those unfortunate, untalented people--born lacking

the innate inclination towards music. Constantly

comparing myself to my older brothers and other students

at MacPhail, I was discouraged by my apparent

inadequacy.

On a recent mission trip to the Dominican Republic,

however, my view on music forever changed. Spending

time with children who had nothing compared to me, I felt

sick. These beautiful, precious children didn’t have access

to clean water, education, or familial love. As I examined

my own life, I became increasingly disgusted. I couldn’t

imagine not having a toilet, not getting to shower, not

being able to go to school, and not having parents who

were present in my life. These were things I took for

granted--things I felt entitled to. My constant self-pitying

felt conceited and petty when I saw children who had real

struggle in their lives. I will never experience the hardship

they face daily--the hardship they were born into. When I

realized that I complain about all the blessings in my life

that these kids might never have, I was convicted. I

returned with a renewed passion for my music, for I could

truly appreciate the gift that it is.

I no longer wallow in my insecurity, but I rejoice in sharing

the musical ability that I have. I play piano daily for my

grandma who has Alzheimer’s disease, I volunteer weekly

on the worship team at my church, and I pour into my

own piano students at each lesson. Over the past twelve

years of study, I’ve learned that music is about expression

and joy, discipline and hard work. It’s not about

impressing anybody; it’s about sharing life’s beauty with

one another.

I’m so thankful for the opportunity I’ve had to study at

MacPhail. Thank you to my parents, for never letting me

give up. Your constant support for twelve years, hundreds

of recitals, and thousands of at-home practices propelled

me through my doubt. Thank you to my teacher, Nancy

Daley, for your encouragement, inspiration, and

generosity. It’s evident by your actions that you truly care

for each of your students. You’re more like family than

just a teacher. Because of your love and passion, I’ve

grown in my ability and appreciation of this beautiful gift.

OLIVIA

I have so many amazing memories that have been the

result of playing piano. Some memories include playing

piano trios with other MacPhail students while touring

Italy. Participating in piano camp in Beaver Creek, CO,

that turned into a trip with grandparents and summer

piano camps at both the old and new MacPhail buildings.

Attending group once a month with my four year old

piano friends, playing book one pieces at a slow pace and

also circle games. Yet while there were many positive

memories, there were many times I would get frustrated

sitting at the piano. I struggled and became impatient to

learn a piece Nancy had taught me. I would ask if I could

quit playing piano. I am thankful that my parents said no

every time. I’ve been able to play for 14 years of my life

and have made amazing memories and friends along the

way.

Juggling homework, tennis, babysitting, working,

volunteering, on top of playing piano, all of these

responsibilities have taught me how to prioritize. That I

am grateful for.

I am so grateful for every single person that supported me

and my growth along the way. A special thanks to Nancy

Daley for sticking with me since age 4 ½. Thank you Mom

and Dad for your incessant piano registrations at MacPhail

and practicing in the most creative ways. A big thanks to

my ever devoted grandparents and their presence in

recital audiences, over and over again.

Thank you to my Grandma Lois, who has modeled playing

for nursing home residents and still plays the piano at the

age of 91. Last but not least, thank you to Mo, our lab

shepherd mix, who has most definitely become a Suzuki

dog. Mo climbs onto the couch to bear witness to my

brothers, Thomas, Adam and my every piano stroke.

I have been given the gift of piano that I will carry with me

for the rest of my life. I will always have a place in me for

MacPhail, the people, and what MacPhail represents.

PRIYANK

I still vividly remember one of my earliest experiences

with piano. Coming home from school to see my dad

sitting on a new black bench smiling at me, I immediately

jumped into his lap and started pressing piano keys,

absorbing the sound of each note.

Curiously, I would pry open the top panel to look inside

and see strings and hammers beautifully arranged in a

harmonious pattern. For weeks, I marveled at that gloss

black upright piano which was awkwardly placed in a small

room in our apartment.

Twelve years later, that same upright still occupies an

entire room in our house. Guests entering and exiting our

house marvel at the instrument the same way I did as a

kid, providing a conversation piece at our house’s

entrance. It always entices friends to come test out a few

keys or to play a small tune whenever they can. However,

when people ask me about playing piano, I can’t help but

think back to all the great memories it brought me over

the last 12 years.

Every so often, I think back to my years in the old

MacPhail building. From the small stuffed animals

attached to my wrist teaching me how to roll my wrists to

the first time I nervously stepped on stage to play some

Twinkle Twinkle variation, this building watched me learn

some of the most important habits and skills I still carry

with me. It seems like part of me was raised in that

building. To anyone else, the old music studios and

performance halls seemed outdated and ancient, but to

me they reflected the years of memorable moments and

musical accomplishments students had achieved.

My biggest takeaway from my years of piano is that hard

work pays off. The hours I spent perfecting each song

before performing it combined with the dedication to

repeat this process for 12 years has helped me in every

aspect of life. I lost count of how many days I used to

spend not wanting to practice or the number of times a

song was difficult and frustrating for me to fix, but in the

end, the simple moment of smiling faces looking at you

after a flawless performance made it all worth it. Although

I won’t be pursuing music in college, the skills and habits

piano taught me will stay with me forever. In the end, my

dedication to work hard and overcome challenges can

only be traced back to this instrument.

I would like to end by thanking the people who supported

me throughout the whole journey. By far the biggest and

most well deserved thank you goes to my dear teacher,

Nancy Daley. Without her guidance and motivation, I

would not be in this place right now. Although she always

picked on the tiny details in my playing, I am emphatically

thankful for it, as it made me stricter on all the small

details in my life. She has become one of my closest

mentors and role models, and her crazy love of cats will

always stick in my mind. Additionally I would like to thank

any MacPhail staff members who helped me on my piano

journey, whether it be critiquing my playing, hosting

recitals, or even just simply being friendly to me.

CHASE

When I was five years old, I had my first piano lesson.

Although it seemed innocent enough at the time, that

lesson prompted a domino effect that would change my

life forever. I left that lesson feeling extremely excited

because I had learned my first piece. This piece was Hot

Cross Buns and consisted of three notes, but I was five, so

cut me some slack. From there, I improved my piano skills,

and eventually ended up taking lessons at MacPhail, which

has become one of the most influential places of my

childhood. As I progressed through the Suzuki method for

piano, I also gained other musical interests. I started

performing in musical theater. This prompted me to take

voice lessons, and eventually I began studying guitar as

well. Soon enough, I found that my love for music had

entirely taken over my life.

Despite my wide variety of musical interests, piano will

always hold a special place in my heart. What makes piano

stand out to me is its sheer versatility. Some may call

guitar the most versatile instrument, but I would disagree.

Piano is an excellent instrument for beginners because,

unlike the guitar, all the notes are laid out in order. This

makes visualizing the piano more straightforward than the

guitar. Due to its versatility, the piano can be found in

nearly every genre in existence. Sometimes it plays the

melody, sometimes it plays the backing, and sometimes it

plays both. Even though I plan on majoring in vocal

performance in college, the piano will always be an

integral part of my skillset. Learning the piano first gave

me a strong foundation with which to learn other

instruments and musical facets.

It is only natural that I continue pursuing music through

college, and then through the rest of my life. To me, this

senior recital is a symbolic act; it marks the end of my

childhood and the beginning of my college years. At times

like this, it is important to look back on the progress I have

made, and nothing has enabled my progress more than

the support I received here at MacPhail. MacPhail has

provided me with the opportunity to perform in Italy. It

has given me the opportunity to work with outstanding

piano teachers, Richard Stanton and Annette Lee, and to

strengthen my singing and acting abilities through the

Prelude Program. These are just a few of the many

opportunities that MacPhail has given to me, and I will be

forever grateful for them. Although I will leave this place

behind as I continue into college, I will never forget the

lessons I learned here. For years, MacPhail has been a

safe, positive place to pursue my passion for music and

learn from teachers who are just as passionate about

music as I am. The things I learned here have given me a

purpose and will influence me for the rest of my life.

AMANDA

“I’m our team’s star soccer player!”

“I’m a tennis player with an undefeated streak!”

“I’m the lead cheerleader that led our team to victory!”

“Um...I’m a...violinist…?”

I hadn’t meant for my answer to sound like a question. But

how was I supposed to put backbone behind my words

when there wasn’t any in the first place? Okay, perhaps

I’m being unfair. Violins are cool. As cool as soccer balls

and tennis balls and frivolous pom poms. It doesn’t matter

what others deem as “cool” or socially acceptable as an

answer to what extracurricular activities we kids do. Sure,

you can kick some stuff around really well, but I bet I can

drag a violin bow across an archaic invention better than

all of them. Also, I have stellar dexterity--one of the perks

of being a violinist, plus several more. And I’d have to

thank my journey as a violinist for that.

Playing the violin is as much as a sport as a real sport is, so

I guess my answer does fall within the context of the

others above. It took a lot of practice, dedication, and

plenty of failures. I took lessons for it and I have game day

(or, rather, performance days). I got frustrated--plenty of

times--and I wanted to quit several times. And, contrary to

belief, I do sweat. A lot. Violin playing is highly stressful,

and I probably stand performing as much as you sit, so it

frankly is a workout.

Several times have I

thought violin wasn’t for

me. It was taxing,

involved a lot of

dedication, and I felt as if

I could never improve.

But violin perhaps was

the game changer for me

and my otherwise black-

and-white life. I don’t

want to risk broken bones

in sports, so music was

the outlet that provided a

passion that didn’t

involve such high physical

risks. Hot Cross Buns and

Twinkle Twinkle were the

milestones in my five year

old life. The Bach Double

was probably the most

impressed I’ve been with

myself during my middle

school days. Wherever I

went, music defined my

life.

When I moved to take lessons from MacPhail, however,

my entire outlook on music changed. I saw that there was

more to music than meets the eye, that it was more than

just playing some notes in front of an audience or putting

it on my resume. It was companionship, friendship, and

comradeship. It was about working together to create

something grand, either it’s in a traditional orchestra or

working privately with my teacher. It’s about hard work

and reaping the fruits of my labor (in the form of

applause). The most important part of what I learned,

however, is that it is okay. It’s okay if I mess up, if

I play horribly, if I screeched on my E string in front of

everyone. It’s okay that I don’t sound like the CD recording

or like Gil Shaham. Music taught me that it’s great that

you do well at something, but it has also taught me that

failure is okay, and that not everyone is perfect. Music is

not whether if you’re supposed to be good or better than

someone. It’s about expressing yourself and doing what

makes you feel good.

I’d like to thank my teacher, Margaret Haviland, for taking

me on this journey and introducing me to another side of

violin playing I’d never discovered before. Whereas I used

to play to impress, now I play for myself.

ANDREA

I have only in MacPhail for only four years, but I have been

taking violin lessons ever since I was four years old with a

different teacher. When I entered MacPhail, I had lessons

with another violin teacher before becoming Margaret’s

student. Practicing beforehand and appreciating music

was difficult when I transitioned into being a part of

MacPhail, but Margaret was patient and presented me

with many musical opportunities that greatly expanded

my regard for music from enrolling into GTCYs to being a

part of the SAMS Graduation. I also started playing the

viola at Margaret’s advice and now hold a greater

admiration for the viola.

Beginning music at four years old, I was not yet aware of

the long journey I was about to partake on. Starting at

violin and working through several Suzuki books, I

eventually fell out of practicing and the joys of playing as I

got older, and eventually quit playing for a while.

Practicing was beginning to become a chore, and there

seemed like much better ways to spend my time as life got

tougher and free time became scarcer. Quitting and taking

a break for a year was both relieving yet hollow, but my

mom wasn’t going to let me quit so easily. When my

parents enrolled me into MacPhail, I was still unsure and

wary of getting back into playing.

Although music had been a big part of my life since

childhood, practicing and dedication was frustrating and

difficult for me. I just never seemed to get the sound I

wanted even after practicing for a long time. To get a fresh

start at MacPhail helped me understand what I should

practice and the techniques that will help me. I would like

to thank Margaret for helping me through my ups and

downs and for supporting me to keep on the musical path

in the future. I would also like to thank her for showing me

the wonders of viola playing as a skeptical violinist back

then that gave me a new and fresh perspective into the

sounds of music.

AIDAN

I only have very vague memories of my first guitar lessons.

I remember walking into the old MacPhail building for the

first time, filled with trepidation, feeling a little

intimidated by the seriousness and skill of the students

whose practices I caught glimpses of through the windows

of their rooms. I remember my frustration when I

struggled to get even a single note to sound, and I

remember the wonderful sense of accomplishment I felt

when I finally managed to get a clean melody out of my

guitar. Simple joys like that are what make up the core of

my musical journey, and they are the reason I’ve never

stopped playing guitar. Few experiences rival the sense of

satisfaction you feel when you finally play a piece through

perfectly, and all of the hard work you put in for weeks or

even months comes to fruition.

When I went to my first concert at MacPhail, I was

astonished at how effortlessly the older students pulled

beautiful, intricately layered tapestries of sound out of the

same strings I struggled to coax dull twangs from. I never

believed I would ever come close to matching their skill,

but, over years of consistent and thoughtful practice, my

ability has steadily improved to a level that 6-year-old me

was convinced was impossible.

Now, nearing the end of musical journey at MacPhail, I can

look back and appreciate everything music has given me.

Not just the ability to create beautiful sounds with only a

guitar and my hands, but an appreciation for the value of

consistent practice and dedication. If you put your mind to

it, there is no skill, no matter how far out of reach it

seems, that cannot be learned. But I never could have

made it far as I have without the help of my teacher, Alan

Johnston. I want to thank him for his incredible teaching

and his ability to make any concept, no matter how

challenging, fun and interesting to learn about.

RILEY

My musical journey started even before I picked up a

violin. I grew up watching my sisters play harp and piano

through the Suzuki method. I could sing all their pieces,

and I loved to dance and make up lyrics as they practiced.

I was excited to pick an instrument of my own.

I was inspired to pick the violin when my mom took me

and my sisters to the Minnesota Orchestra. I was

enthralled by the soaring melodies and quiet harmonies. I

was especially drawn to the shiny instruments right up

front playing the big melodies (which make sense because

I’m a show-off at heart). Soon after, I was picking up a

violin for the first time and starting lessons in the Suzuki

program at MacPhail.

When you’re a 5 year old violinist, I admired the older

violin students. Their pieces amazed me and I couldn’t

wait to play the same repertoire. I thought, “I’m going to

be just like them some day!” When I was 5, I didn’t realize

the full weight of that statement. Those older students

worked hard to become the musicians they were, and that

“someday” is evidently today: 13 years later. When I was

5, I didn’t realize how long 13 years was or what those

years would entail. Progress from week to week was

seemingly imperceptible, but that is one of the reasons I

enjoyed the Suzuki books so much. Progress became

tangible when I could flip a page to the next song, or even

most thrilling, when I opened a new book for the first

time.

Slowly, I progressed through the books and beyond. I

began to appreciate classical music, and choosing my own

music was extremely exciting. Studying a new piece

suddenly had a personal feeling.

I am so grateful that I have music in my life. It gave it

structure, and rounded me out as a person. Music gave

me something to say and it made other people listen; I am

forever grateful for that confidence and self-awareness.

I want to thank my Mom, whose guidance and wisdom

helped me become the violinist I am today. She knows

more than anyone it wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.

Thank you Dad for believing in me even when I didn’t

believe in myself. Thank you Joy for always being positive

and helping me stay on track. Thank you Grace for keeping

me focused on my goals and for flexing on all your friends

that you have a violinist sister. Weird flex but okay sis.

Thank you Maggie for being my first musical inspiration.

Thank you Nora and Katie for being my biggest fans. Thank

you to Zoe Sax for being the best stand partner and friend

a girl could ask for. And finally thank you to Allison

Swiggum for being a ray of sunshine on every dark 6:45

Monday morning and giving me so many opportunities to

perform and challenge myself.

ELLA

Taking guitar lessons has been a constant for me since I

was but a wee five year old, unable to sit still long enough

to hold a stuffed bear on my head. I’m seventeen now,

and can hold any stuffed animal on my head, meaning I’ve

been taking these guitar lessons for quite a few years. In

those numerous, music-filled years, I’ve developed what

most would consider a genuine love for guitar. It is not a

simple, superficial, uncomplicated love. It is fickle, born

from years of not wanting to practice, of crying every

lesson, and of being enticed to practice by Tic-Tac-Tony,

the world’s best dog-based game that is also tic-tac-toe.

Had you asked little Ella, who was probably wearing a

ponytail on the top of her head, how she would feel when

graduating the Suzuki program, she likely would have told

you that she wouldn’t be graduating, because she would

be quitting guitar at the soonest possible opportunity. We

can all have a good laugh at her now!

All joking aside, there are a lot of things I’ll miss about

MacPhail, Suzuki, summer institute, and the people who

live there.

The guitar students and parents have been kind to me,

and inclusive. For example, the Suzuki parents were kind

enough to compliment the singing I was doing loudly in

the echoed bathrooms of the old MacPhail, even though I

was five and hadn’t yet developed the melodious voice

you all know today. And, when my sister, brother, and I all

took lessons on the same day, causing a sort of marathon

chair-occupation by my family, one of the other parents

took pity on us poor, vending-machine-eating-children and

fed us veggie-centered snacks (Thanks, Kim!). Without all

the encouragement of other people's parents, I wouldn’t

be where I am today.

Probably the coolest and best thing I can do is hear a song,

then play the melody on the guitar. Even so, I’ve never

quite figured out the intro to Careless Whisper. I directly

credit my ability to hear a tune to the Suzuki program,

with its emphasis on listening. Furthermore, I believe that

all the guitar playing and rhythmic clapping I was made to

do as a child improved my singing enough that I can carry

a tune in a choir today! And thank goodness for that,

because I don’t have enough natural talent to stay an alto

had I not done all that clapping and playing of harmony.

Sure, maybe it took a while, but I have a more nuanced

love of music because of all the forced I was forced to

spend playing guitar.

My final institute was last year. I am proud to say that I did

not spend any of it hiding from the master teacher under

my chair, which I have been told I did at my first master

class. In fact, I’ve been told I’m actually known, in the

small social circle of the Suzuki guitar teachers of America,

as the kid who hid under the chair at her first master class.

This last summer, I didn’t cry at the beginning, but I did cry

a little at the end. It wasn’t that I was terribly sad and

wanted to keep doing institute forever. I don’t, I’ve had a

good run. Endings are just always sad, and this is just

another subtle reminder that I’m getting older and

everything is always changing.

I think I’ll take my guitar to college.

MEERAH

Growing up I was constantly surrounded by music; my mom played fiddle in a band and my sister’s passion was her violin. It was only a matter of time before I took up an instrument as well. I began on the violin at age five, switching over to the viola when I was ten (a great decision!). My mother was my first teacher, starting me in the Suzuki Program but also attempting to open my eyes to the world of fiddling. I took to neither, constantly trying to wriggle my way out of playing. The countless hours my mother put in is unprecedented, considering half of those hours I was fighting to not have to practice. I would like to put it out there that I COULD quit whenever I wanted, but I’m not a quitter. “You won’t regret it if you stick with it,” she would say to my nine year old screaming self… and sure enough, as moms always are, she was right.

A couple years down the road from this screaming nine year old was an even more difficult beast… the tween. My mom needed a break and knew the perfect teacher for me, so I switched over to Linda Trygstad’s studio. Good move mom, I LOVE Linda. Lessons were a weekly chore that slowly turned into something I looked forward to. Linda did not just watch me grow as a musician, but also as a person. My awkward tween self with bangs and braces turned into a confidant young woman. Viola has taught me perseverance, that practice may not make perfect but it sure makes you a lot better, and above all, it has forced me to overcome challenges. I am terrified to play in front of people, if you are watching me play right

now (which you shouldn’t be because otherwise you would be too mesmerized to read this!!) my legs are probably trembling and my hands are definitely sweaty, but there I am anyway because, like I said, I am not a quitter and I have grown leaps and bounds because of the Suzuki Program.

JUSTIN

The Butterfly Lovers Concerto is a Chinese violin concerto that was composed in 1959 by Chen Gang and He Zhanhao, and is based on the “Chinese Romeo and Juliet,” The Butterfly Lovers is a classical romantic tragedy set in the Mid-Tang Dynasty in the city of Hangzhou. The story follows Zhu Yingtai, a young woman who dresses as a man so that she may attend school (which was forbidden to women in China at the time), and Liang Shanbo, her classmate and love interest. The two fall in love, and when Zhu reveals her true identity and they decide to get married. It is at that time that Zhu’s parents announce that they have arranged for her to marry a wealthier man, and force her and Liang to separate. Soon after, Liang dies of heartbreak, and on the day of her wedding, the soon-to-be bride is informed of his death. She immediately heads for his grave. When she arrives, overcome with grief, she wails so sorrowfully, the Earth and the Heavens are moved so much that they begin to tremble. With a great crack his tomb opens up to her, and into it Zhu throws herself to be with her lost love. After all settles, out rise she and Liang, together in the form of a pair of butterflies, forever to be together. I’m not typically one to jump for tales of romance, but when I discovered this piece I immediately fell in love. Though this piece written for Western instruments, it encapsulates traditional musical values such as elements from Chinese opera, the delicate yet expressive huayin sliding tones, and techniques from the violin-like erhu. The Butterfly Lovers Concerto has a voice that’s almost human, conveying more than just music, but feelings of love, tragedy, and resurrection. As someone who is passionate about Chinese culture, who has studied classical Chinese music, and has played the erhu, it was important for me to learn this piece. In fact, it was because of this piece that I became excited about learning the violin four years ago, and it opened my eyes up to what an amazing gift it is to be able to play the violin. Not only can I make beautiful music, but I can learn about history, experience other cultures, learn new instruments, and above all, connect with people.

I’d like to thank my mom for signing me up for violin lessons all those years back, supporting me, and making me stick with it; and I’d also like to thank Beatrice for being my mentor and role model since the beginning of

my violin journey thirteen years ago.

CHARLIE

I originally started playing Suzuki piano at MacPhail before

the start of kindergarten because my dad played, my sister

was in the program for violin, and my mom wanted me to

choose an instrument. Right before entering kindergarten

I decided to switch to guitar. Two reasons for the switch:

one, because my neighborhood friend was playing and,

two, in all the westerns I watched as a kid the main

character would always be playing a guitar and looking

suave.

I’ve had two amazing teachers during the thirteen years

I’ve played guitar. My first teacher was Brent Weaver, and

I would like to thank him. He was a good teacher who

guided me through Book One, and taught me some of the

fundamentals of playing guitar. Brent encouraged me to

play right-handed guitar even though I am left handed. It

was a smart move.

Then came Jean Seils, my beloved teacher for over ten

years now. She taught me all the way through Book Five. I

appreciate the patience she’s had with me, especially

since I entered high school. With a busy school schedule

and sports, I haven’t had much time to practice or even

get to my lessons. Thank you Jean for always being so

positive and supporting my interest in playing different

pieces like Singing in the Rain.

I never won any big music awards or played in any

quartets or even became a great guitarist, but that’s fine

because Suzuki still has taught me lots. Throughout the

years I’ve learned how to perform in front of an audience

without being too nervous, how to practice efficiently,

how to continue playing through a recital even if I make a

mistake. And of course, I learned how to bow, which I will

do now. Thank you.

LEAH

I usually don’t give much thought about playing the violin.

To me, it has just been a part of my life, a part I didn’t

always necessarily like, since I was 5 years old. The

indignation, the fussing, and sometimes the outright

refusal to practice were things commonly observed in my

household (a familiar scene to most, I’m sure). Everything

about the presence of music in my life was routine: the

weekly lesson, the weekly group and orchestra, the same

teacher, the same peers. It wasn’t until I joined my first

orchestra outside of the Suzuki program when I noticed

myself having fun playing the violin. That isn’t to say that I

hadn’t found enjoyment before, but never had I had

actual excitement when I drew the bow across the string,

or when the music swelled in a great crescendo. It ended

up being these new group ensembles that began to fuel

my passion for music. Whether it was 1 of playing in a

GTCYS orchestra, or only a week at an obscure Wisconsin

fiddling camp, I noticed myself having fun. The enjoyment

I found in other areas of music even began to trickle back

to my “routine” playing; I noticed that I was even building

more personal friendships along the way. When I started

high school and joined the orchestra, that was, I believe,

the final decision that opened the floodgates of musical

involvement. I joined my first quartet, I played music with

various choir ensembles that required accompaniment,

and I even played in the pit orchestra for my school’s

musical. I am even now concert master of that orchestra

at school, for the second year. All the while discovering

new relationships, and becoming more and more

infatuated with playing the violin. Due to my previous

years of indifference, my repertoire was noticeably further

behind than the rest of my peers, which bothered me for a

while. After a while, I began to understand that it actually

doesn’t matter what Suzuki book you are in; what matters

is the passion and technique that you play with. Standing

beside me this entire journey was my amazing teacher,

Beatrice Blanc. I have been with her since I was six years

old, and there is a reason she is known around my house

as “the third parent.” Her unending kindness and patience

was pretty much the only reason I was able to continue

playing the violin, not to mention build skills and love the

instrument. The most important thing that she taught me

was more of an implicit one: if you view playing as a

chore, then it will become one, but if you recognize it as a

privilege, you will be greatly rewarded. Thank you

Beatrice!

RACHEL

If you can believe it or not I haven’t always had the

best relationship with the piano. When I was

younger, I’d always come up with elaborate excuses

to get out of practicing. I would say my stomach hurt, I

had a headache, and I had to go to the bathroom. I

probably ended up sitting at the piano more in those days

complaining about how I didn't want to practice more

than I actually spent practicing. My parents desperately

tried to come up with ways to make practicing more

enjoyable, creating games to play and having a prize box

for when I got through an entire practice. But, I wore my

parents down through the constant struggle of making me

practice and having to deal with my perpetual temper

tantrums.

As I grew older, I became progressively more aware of my

peers and I felt as though their skills were rapidly passing

mine. This began to make me feel self-conscious about my

piano playing. Because of this, I began to practice more

and it was astonishing how much I improved when I

actually put in the effort.

Over time I began listening more and more to piano music

as I studied or to find peace in a hectic day. I started to

notice the beauty of classical piano music, realizing that

many of the songs I listened to were songs that I could

easily learn myself. It gave me a new love and

appreciation for the piano.

The struggles to get myself to practice no longer exists.

Now I find lots of joy and peace in my playing and find it as

a very therapeutic way for me to process my thoughts as I

play. Now, when I sit down to play I can play for hours

without realizing the amount of time that has passed. It’s

just me and my music.

AVA

As a lively 4 year old, my parents felt music would be a

great experience for me and my young mind. My piano

studies started before I could even pronounce

Rachmaninoff. Six days a week, I sat at the piano while my

mom sat next to me as I went through my lesson. Playing

piano every day was like brushing my teeth, and I thought

everyone did it. Looking back, this routine worked out well

until I got older and started having lots of other activities

and homework that distracted me.

After a few years, my mom started a B. F. Skinner style of

conditioning to get me to play my daily lessons. A mere six

M&M’s at six years old, seven at seven years old, and so

on was what it took to keep me motivated and happy. As I

grew older, so did the concept of M&M’s. The incentive of

knowing how to play such a beautiful instrument was now

my reward. Still, aiming for 45 minutes a day became

impossible as I struggled to keep the balance of school,

sports, and music. I started to look at piano practice as a

way to calm down my nerves and relax my brain. With

piano as a sense of therapy, sometimes I found myself lost

in time while playing.

Once in a while, when I found it difficult to memorize a

song, or my fingers would tense up, I would leave the

piano in frustration. Through these struggles, I always had

Mrs. Turco. Getting me to the piano for my daily practice, I

always had my parents. Without all this support, I quite

possible would have quit a long time ago only to regret it

later. I am thankful to Mrs. Turco and my parents that I

can sit down at the piano and let my fingers run along the

black and white keys as the music flows through my ears.

After 14 years of studying piano, not only can I pronounce

Rachmaninoff, but perform Prelude in G Minor by

Rachmaninoff.

ELLA

The beautiful piano stood strong and righteous in a special

corner of the living room. The light from the window

illuminated the many keys with an enchanting glow. This

piano seemed to have its own sense of purpose. I was

mesmerized by the eighty-eight black and white keys, as

were my two sisters. Once I learned the intricate ways to

make this inanimate object come alive, the piano quickly

became intertwined with the other parts of my daily life.

Piano lessons started with my mom by my side, working to

keep my little chubby fingers arched like a rainbow above

the keys while I struggled through Twinkle Twinkle Little

Star and Go Tell Aunt Rhody. I still hear these songs

playing repeatedly through my mind. At the young age of

four, playing even a simple song on the piano was a highly

valued “little human trick” that would wow my grams and

gramps, as well as any other family member or friend who

visited.

Bribery soon became the friendly cousin to practicing. It

started simple with M&M rewards, correlating to my age.

This quickly moved to prizes. Every practice I earned one

red movie-like ticket pulled from a large continuous roll of

many. Eventually, I would earn a trip to the mysterious

prize box. It was an absolute dream, even the Cheetah

Girls CD made its way into my greedy grasp. In the last few

years, my piano lessons consist of sitting in a dimly lit

room playing random chords and harmonies. Along with

the array of musical notes, I add lyrics and formulate

songs that artistically reflect me and my thoughts. This

unbridled passion has me glued to the piano for hours

writing and singing until finally, I hear a firm voice telling

me to focus on my Suzuki music.

My individual success in playing the piano could only have

been achieved with the dedication, help, and support of

others. Mrs. Turco was always there for me with steady

guidance and encouragement that helped tremendously

during my doubtful days. She had a “you can do it”

attitude when I didn’t. I so appreciate the many years of

friendship and having such a good life role model. Of

course, an everlasting thank you to my parents for this

amazing lifelong skill that will always bring me joy. This

musical escape will continue to consume me in a beautiful

way.

MAGDELENA

Music has been the most consistent part of my life from

the age two on. Music has affected every part of my life

from school, to dance, to church. Some of my favorite

memories have to do with music and, while I often

considered piano my nemesis, I can now look back on my

piano career so far and be proud of the things I’ve

accomplished.

I’ve always enjoyed the social aspects of music. I loved

getting to accompany other instruments as well as playing

duets and trios. My siblings and I played multiple six-

hands-one-piano trios, including the infamous “Triple Dip”

where we dyed our hair different colors to represent

different ice cream flavors (getting hair dye on the piano

in room 126 at MacPhail in the process--good news: it was

only semi-permanent).

I’ve gotten to sing in choirs which gave me a different

perspective of music and the singing bug from which I’ve

never fully recovered. I’ve also had the joy of playing

French Horn in band since third grade. Although at first, I

was unsure about starting a second instrument, I quickly

developed a soft spot for French Horn and have enjoyed

playing it in ensembles ever since.

Piano has taught me that difficult activities become more

enjoyable as you advance. Hard work eventually pays off,

and you can use the abilities you’ve acquired along the

way to simply enjoy what you’ve worked so hard for. That

knowledge has helped me see the big picture of why it’s

worth working hard and pushing through any activity that

seems difficult or pointless.

Next year, I plan to take a gap semester abroad, hopefully

in Quebec where I can practice my French. In the spring, I

will be doing an internship at the Senate at the Minnesota

State Capitol. After that, I plan to go to college and major

in Political Science while taking piano lessons, dance

classes, and playing French Horn in ensembles.

I’d like to thank my parents for driving me to all my

lessons, my teacher, Annette Lee, for pushing me to make

my own musical decisions, coffee for giving me the energy

to make those decisions, and my dog for knowing exactly

when I need stop practicing and play with him. I’m so

thankful for the skills Suzuki has taught me, and I can’t

wait to see where they lead me in the future.