Annual Piano Recital

My annual piano recital took place today! I'm relieved it's over and may have justified Cafe Rio for dinner and a new dress purchase. I have been working with students in preparation for this recital since January.

This year I used a different location... The Lehi Arts Center. I was hoping to use the same venue as last year, but they no longer rent it out. It actually ended up being a positive thing because the new location was better. The piano was excellent, there was plenty of seating, and a plethora of natural light.

I was so proud of my students! I was a little worried and maybe even skeptical about how it would turn out. Consistent practice is always a struggle. My students blew me away! 

Max, Drake, Adam, Willem

Miles, Rachel, William

I played my fair share of duets

Unfortunately Connor and Graham weren't able to make it to the recital. They were definitely missed! 

Piano has been on my mind a lot lately since I'll have lots of changes coming this summer with a new baby. I will likely be cutting back the number of students I teach which I'm bummed about. I itch to teach and I'm so grateful I have the opportunity to do something I love on a regular basis. 

I have so much support which doesn't go unnoticed. My parents, grandma, and Andrew + James all came to watch. My dad chased James around outdoors during the whole thing which was a relief. My mom took the group picture. Andrew and James weren't sick this year, so I was excited for Andrew to see my students perform. (Now some of our conversations make more sense to him ;) My sister who is traveling abroad right now even texted me to check in and see how it went. 

Sending people home with cookies is never a bad idea. (Luckily there were some left for the actual recital. I think I had 4 this morning.) This year I took the cheap route and made homemade chocolate chip cookies instead of relying on Costco.Thanks, Joanna Gaines, for a superb recipe. 

I try hard to make recitals low-key for my students. A recital that only lasts about 20 minutes isn't too shabby and hardly gives the students a chance to panic. I still remember being nervous and having shaky hands while I performed growing up. Sugar is always a good way to entice students to want to come and not dread the experience too much.

On our way out of the Lehi Arts Center, my dad said, "There were no tears, so I'd say it was a success!" Amen to that.

In the flyer I spread around town to advertise my studio, I listed "annual piano recital." I've held myself accountable each year. I'm thrilled that I didn't commit to more than that. Until next year...