Lessons of Love
Love is the biggest part of this story
Brook has come for lessons on Wednesday afternoons since she was little. She’s a freshman in high school now, so I’ve come to love her dearly. What touches me most is how she’s taken our community service on the piano (with the music she can play) to a new level. Love is the biggest part of this story.
Brook learned to play in her small group classes for others, as well as recitals and in the retirement homes, from when she was in elementary school. She’s bright and capable, even if a little quiet in class. Learning how to perform, using genuine eye contact and vocal skills while introducing her pieces (along with postured graciousness in accepting applause when she’s done), came to full fruition this last week. But first, a little background.
Busy kids are the most productive students
Brook just competed in the Academic Decathalon at her school. And the Math Olympiad. And she played piano for the school’s jazz band concerts in the parks and on stage. She’s also teaching her special needs brother how to play the piano. But in addition to all these fabulous opportunities, she decided to learn her mom’s favorite classical piece for Mother’s Day. It was a challenge to practice since she was rarely home when Mom wasn’t also home. To make it a surprise, we communicated on the side, double what we regularly did, to complete this big piece.
Using her Piano to show Love
Brook’s ability to use her practice and love for her mom was wrapped up in a beautiful Debussy this week. But the surprises kept coming, and this time for me. I got a video of the chamber concert at school for the end of semester. Brook accompanied 2 other students on instruments for their assignments. And she went one step further. She played a jazz solo. This made my heart so happy. I thought I was the one in on her surprise for her mom. But Brook surprised me with this lovely piece. She really developed this one on her own, used her jazz training to compliment her life long learning.
Teacher listens 11 times
My surprise was the whole Chamber concert performance. Seeing that video made my day. Her polish, her accomplishment despite all the other work she was conquering was sparkling. I watched the video 11 times over. Ever heard the classic “Summertime” done in fast jazz? It’s delightful and proves students can communicate love when sharing their music.
