Focus on these five main areas when considering music lessons for either your child or yourself. 1) Safety
Be sure the studio is licensed and certified to be in operation. This means that the teachers have undergone background checks, the facility has been inspected, and all of the necessary requirements have been filled at the city and state level. If a studio has the proper licensing & certification to be in operation, the information should be made very clear on their brochures & website. As well, the licenses should be displayed in the reception area of the facility. 2) Teacher Credentials
Are the teachers degreed? Do they have teaching and performance experience? You're paying tuition and are entitled (and should demand) that the instructor is qualified to be working with either your child or you. 3) Tour the Place
Are studio tours available? This should be standard but, unfortunately, not all studios offer this. Quite simply, you should have the option to tour the studio, meet with the owner, and make your decision. 4) Payment Policy
Be sure you know what the payment policy is; this information should be made available to you from the beginning. Paying month to month is fair and reasonable. There are some studios that require you to pay for 6 months (or more!) in advance for lessons. But keep in mind that if you do pay month to month, fees may be applied for late payments. 5) Prices
Speaking of paying...what are the studio's prices? Be sure to price around and take into consideration the following: location flexibility (Is there a cancellation policy? 24-hours' notice is reasonable, but some studios are more strict and require several days notice or don't even offer make-up lessons.) reputation qualifications of teachers Best of luck on your journey to becoming a music maker! Ellen Bartolozzi Owner, Bella Angel Music
Nathan was sitting in Bella's waiting room, waiting to take his drum lesson. He was walking around the studio, giving me feedback on how best to arrange any new drum books that come into the store. I liked his ideas, so I said that (who knows?) maybe he could work there some day.
He asked me how busy we were and how many phone calls he would have to answer, what he would have to do, etc. He was full of questions and very serious. He then told me that he was in "desperate need" of cash and wants a job. When I asked him why, he said he needs the cash to buy Easy Mac microwave mac-n-cheese.
Did I mention Nathan is nine? =)
Ahhh...the power of man-n-cheese.
Last week, a simple song request turned into so much more. My student Kelly brought in sheet music for “Through the Eyes of Love.” You remember it? It’s the one from the movie Ice Castles and was made famous by Melissa Manchester.
Kelly asked me to play the song and, when I did, I was transported back in time…
The day was August 6, 1988…my brother Richard’s wedding day. I was excited on so many levels. Rich and my (now) sister-in-law Nancy asked me to stand up to their wedding, which was my first time as a bridesmaid. Imagine how thrilled I was when they also asked me to play “Through the Eyes of Love” at the ceremony.
The entire summer leading up to that day, I practiced and practiced. I was nervous and wanted to do a good job. I also was honored to have been chosen to do this. I remember standing at the front of the church with the bridal party. When it was time for me to play the song, I walked to the piano and played it. Not one mistake. When I finished I caught the faces of a few people in the congregation, and they were beaming. And I realized I was beaming too. Snippets of the rest of the day are forever in my heart and mind: my date Brad asking to me to dance to every single song the DJ played (I had told him the only way I’d take him is if he danced with me); my mother telling me that she got emotional when my brother Richard made a sign of the cross before the ceremony started; Rich and Nancy dancing to “Crazy for You” (Madonna) at the reception; and much more.
And now here I am, 23 years later. The memories are vivid, intact, and comforting.
Ahhh…the power of music.
Had a moment of clarity last night after speaking to one of my students.
Nicole is 12, very shy, and a WONDERFUL piano player. She learned "Harp Ballad" on her own, figured out the notes, timing, etc. I asked her to play the song for one of the other teachers at the studio; she said she didn't want to because she was nervous and she might make a mistake.
We talked for a bit. I offered lots of encouragement and some advice and explained that she should be proud of her hard work. When others listen to her play, they want her to succeed and do well. They are probably thinking to themselves, “Gee, I wish I could do that.”
When I asked her what was the worst thing that could happen, she thought a moment, smiled, and said, “I’ll make a mistake?” “Yes,” I said, “that is all that will happen.”
When it was time to leave, I asked her to think about playing her song for someone else next week. I cannot force the issue but have a feeling she will be fine with this. We’ll work on this every week. It’s not about “taking a chance.” It’s about believing in you and showing others what you can do.
Thank you, Nicole, for reminding me of a valuable lesson.
BELLA ANGEL MUSIC is now WeddingWire Rated for 2011 Forest Park / Chicago, IL - July 8, 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, is pleased to announce that BELLA ANGEL MUSIC is WeddingWire Rated 2011 for singing and music for weddings / ceremonies. WeddingWire Rated is an annual award program that distinguishes wedding vendors across the country for their excellence. Based on hundreds of thousands of recent wedding reviews, WeddingWire Rated is the most recognized and trusted brand among engaged couples looking to find the best local businesses for their wedding. BELLA ANGEL MUSIC has 6 reviews on WeddingWire. Reviews by our newlywed clients include detailed ratings and insightful descriptions about their experiences working with our business and staff. Our reviews provide transparency for potential clients, assisting them in making the most informed decisions for their big day. "We are delighted to unveil the 5th annual WeddingWire Rated program," said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire, Inc. " BELLA ANGEL MUSIC has made a commitment to capturing their clients experiences on the nation's leading wedding review site." As the largest site for wedding reviews, WeddingWire empowers engaged couples with the most comprehensive and trusted review system available. The WeddingWire Rated program provides BELLA ANGEL MUSIC with a simple platform to capture customer feedback from their wedding planning experience. Newly engaged couples can easily access all of the reviews for BELLA ANGEL MUSIC on WeddingWire.com. We would like to thank our newlyweds for our WeddingWire Rated 2011 recognition. For more information, please visit BELLA ANGEL MUSIC on WeddingWire at http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/bella-angel-music-forest-park/484352fce64ed216.html. For more information on WeddingWire Rated 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
If I had a nickel for every time an adult said to me, "Oh, I've ALWAYS wanted to learn how to play the piano." OR, "I quit piano lessons when I was younger and I wish I had stuck with it." Well...I'd have lots of nickels saved!
Learning to play a musical instrument offers a lot of benefits. Here are 5 reasons why:
1. Playing A Musical Instrument Makes You Smarter
Many studies have been conducted on the effects of music to the brain. Scientists say that children who are exposed to music, or those who play an instrument, do better in school than those who don't. Recent research suggests exposure to music may benefit a child's reading age, IQ and the development of certain parts of the brain. Adults can benefit from learning to play an instrument too because it helps the mind to be alert and remain active eventually helping to sharpen the memory.
2. It Teaches Discipline
Learning to play an instrument is like learning to speak another language and it can be challenging at times. One of the qualities musicians possess is discipline. You have to be disciplined in order to master playing your instrument. You have to set time each day to practice, practice and practice some more.
3. Playing A Musical Instrument Relieves Stress
We all have days when we are so stressed out and we just want to take a break from it all. Have you ever noticed that when you hear soft, soothing music you feel more relaxed? Playing an instrument can do that and more, especially if you're the one playing. Music is one of life's simple joys; it helps calm the mind.
4. Sense of Achievement
If you're a beginner learning to play your first piece, it can be frustrating. But once you've mastered it, the satisfaction you'll feel is priceless. Never mind if it's just a simple piece, believe me you'll never forget the first piece you've mastered. You are one more step closer to achieving your goal and that is certainly something to be proud of.
5. Playing A Musical Instrument is Fun
Sure it can be a lot of hard work but there is no denying playing an instrument is fun. Once you get better at it, opportunities will arise for you to share your newly learned skill with your family and friends. Who knows, you may also consider playing professionally in the future. Playing a musical instrument opens up a lot of good possibilities that will surely enrich your life.
Call today to schedule your FREE first lesson. 708-466-8553
Click here for more information about Bella Angel Music's Piano Program.
Don't want to catch a cold? Having trouble sleeping? No problem. Go through your music library to find the perfect cure!♫ To ward off a cold…
Opt for music with a tempo of 80 to 90 beats per minute (BPM). Studies show this tempo enhances parasympathetic nervous system activity, which reduces the body’s output of the immune-suppressing hormone cortisol and increases the production of compounds that fight off colds and flu. (Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, PA)
♫ To sleep more soundly…
Unwind to music with 60 to 80 BPM for 30 minutes before bed. Credit goes to the tempo’s ability to slow heart rate and deepen breathing, inducing a relaxation response. (Tokyo University of Science)
♫ To rev energy…
Tunes with 120 to 140 BPM are proven to increase endurance by 15% and make physical activity feel easier. The heart rate and breathing sync to the beat, increasing levels of circulating oxygen that energizes muscles. (British researchers)
♫ To improve focus…
Tune in to a symphony. This type of music (approximately 60 BPM) lights up the hippocampus and the cerebral cortex, areas of the brain that are involved in making predictions, paying attention and committing details to memory. As a result, you’re better able to concentrate on problems and retain information after listening to such music. Make it work for you by listening for 10 or more minutes, then switch off the music and get to work! (Stanford University School of Medicine)
HOW TO DETERMINE SONG BPM--
Grab a stopwatch, start the music, and count as you tap out the drumbeats for 15 seconds. Multiply the number by 4 to get the BPM. DIGITAL MUSIC-- Go to mixmeister.com, download a Free BPM Analyzer, and drag your songs into the program to learn their BPM. iTUNES--
Go to apple.com and download beaTunes 2.1.14. It will calculate and assign a BPM for every song in your library.
Congratulations! Your wedding day is one of the most important days in your life and deserves only the best music…in other words, your wedding singer should NOT be Adam Sandler! Listen, Listen, Listen
The most important way to know if you are hiring the right person is to listen to them play and sing. Seems simple enough, but many musicians do not offer this service! >Bella Angel Music will play / sing for you LIVE and IN PERSON! This brings me to my next point… FREE Consultation
The musician should offer a FREE initial music consultation. >Bella Angel Music will play and sing a variety of songs / styles for you at your FREE consultation. >After we meet, I will give you a FREE demo CD so that you can listen to Bella Angel Music’s sound at your leisure…in your car, while home relaxing, etc. Call me to set up your FREE consultation. Ellen 708.466.8553
Experience, Experience, Experience
How long has the company been in business? >Bella Angel Music has been providing wedding music since 1986. >I’ve also worked as a church music director for many years. I understand church customs and traditions and have knowledge of which songs are appropriate and will be allowed in a church wedding. FREE demo CD
The musician should provide you with a FREE demo CD of singing and playing examples. >Bella Angel Music provides you with a FREE demo CD with MP3s of singing and playing. Website and Facebook Page
Does the musician have a website? Facebook fan page? >Bella Angel Music has a website and FB page which offer: tons of information; coupons; customer reviews; MP3s; more! Variety
The musician should be very knowledgeable of many styles and types of music (popular music AND church music). >Bella Angel Music’s repertoire is quite extensive and depending on the location / setting of your wedding, most song requests can be met >Bella Angel Music offers music for: wedding ceremonies; wedding Masses; cocktail hours; dinner hours
This is YOUR Wedding (not the Church’s)
If you’re getting married in a church, you can hire an outside musician and do not have to hire the church’s music director. >There may still be some churches out there that will discourage you from hiring an outside musician, but remember this is your wedding and your special day! >It’s also your money! Hire whom you want and the “sound” that you want. Do you want Adam Sandler or “the church lady”…or do you want beautiful music? =) Reviews & References
Quite simply, the musician should be able to provide references / reviews. >Bella Angel Music has many satisfied brides and grooms! Visit us online to read reviews: www.BellaAngelMusic.comENJOY!Most important, remember that this is YOUR DAY! Enjoy it and best wishes on this magical, wonderful journey. J Ellen Call me with any questions or to set up your FREE consultation. Ellen 708.466.8553www.BellaAngelMusic.com708.466.8553
Good morning, all!
I am very excited to announce that Bella Angel Music is participating in a very exciting event happening soon at Oak Park's historic Pleasant Home!
It's called "Simply Elegant Wedding Showcase" and it's Fri. February 18 and Sat. February 19th.
Ok, ok...so maybe you're not getting married. But you might know someone that is. And remember, even though this show is aimed at brides, you don't have to be getting married to seek our professional services and ALL are welcome to attend.
I haven't lost you yet have I? Good...many vendors will be there representing flowers, photography, planning, music (that's me!) and catering. Extra bonus: Vocalist Chris Howard and I will be playing & singing at the event for any brides that so request.
The first 200 brides to register will get a FREE swag bag. Also, the $10 admission will be waived if a donation is made to The Glass Slipper Project.
For more information and to RSVP, please visit:
http://simplyelegantweddingshowcase.com/
TIPS FOR THE PIANIST, PART I
by Ellen Bartolozzi, Bella Angel Music
♪♪Slow and in control…
One of the most important things to remember when learning new material is to play / count slowly! Playing too fast will cause frustration and may even cause errors to “stick” with you. It is much more productive to learn less correctly than to learn lots incorrectly!
♪♪Repeat, repeat, repeat…
Each song is different. Remember that some songs take longer than others to learn and it is supposed to take several attempts to learn new material. Once you have initially gone through a new song, repeat it several times. If you find that you are having difficulty with certain passages of the song, then you need to isolate those areas. See next “tip.”
♪♪Isolate…
Isolate any difficult passages. “Break down” each passage by first playing hands separately, and then together.
Now you should incorporate the passage with its respective preceding and following measure.
Now try playing the entire song.
♪♪How much time should I devote each day to my passion?
Everyone learns differently. For some, 60 minutes is effective. For others, less (or more) is needed. Some people opt to devote time to the piano several times a day…others study for one “longer” session.
What is important here is to realize that the more you play, the better you will become.
Each song / exercise you play is building your strength as a pianist.
♪♪ “Practice” vs. “Performance”...
Practice Mode: You are playing slowly, correcting mistakes when you make them, isolating trouble spots, etc. This is your time to get comfortable with a song and learn it well.
Performance Mode: This is when you are truly playing the piano. Let’s face it, you love music and this is why you have decided to become a pianist. When performing, if you make a mistake (and we ALL do), you need to just keep playing. Play through your mistakes! Do not draw attention to your mistake, whether visually, verbally, or by what you play. You can be alone and performing for yourself. You can be playing a song for others to hear. The point is that you are training yourself to play through your mistakes!!!
Bella Angel Music © 2010
|
RSS Feed