Notes from the Rabbit Hole

Original artwork provided by Alan, one of Ms. Furash’s students, with permission

Was it over one year ago when we slipped into that “ether world”—the one of daily webinars offered by our various esteemed music teacher associations. A particular session led by one non-musician business professional stands out.  She argued the case to eliminate a weekly hour lesson for fee, but rather adopt a more modern model of marketing our product--one with undefined parameters which might better serve our clientele inexperienced with coping during a pandemic.

Revolutionary! But this was not the quick fix I was seeking. I closed the computer and my mind along with it. Eventually, her presentation became the itch I could not relieve. How could her idea be reframed to suit my teaching style?  With laptop affixed to my music stand by bungies, and a new resolve to being a more open student, FL OH was born. 

Another acronym, not meant to be catchy/kitschy it can be described as follows. Mid-week, the Formal Lesson [FL] of one hour is followed by my detailed, written critique specific to the assignment, suggestions for improvement, listening, posture, technique how/why--composer research, anecdotal material (of course we all want to know what Wanda told her incredible husband Vladimir before his return to Moscow!). 

Sunday evening Office (one-half) Hour [OH] follows, the content being of student design, opportunity to work on thorny specifics or try out new ideas, start new work, but yet structured.

Now, the evaluation. I have written over fifty “Summary of Lesson” reports per student, prepped a young man for his Senior Recital plus several other public virtual performances.  All students progressed well, and are preparing for spring auditions, albeit with shortened programs; parents are pleased, and if the bungies hold out, so will I.

Sylvia Karkus Furash, NCTM

Yarmouth Port, MA