Opus 1 Music Studio is thrilled to present a Q&A with one of our esteemed young students, Wyatt!
Wyatt embarked on his musical journey at Opus 1 just last year in August after playing the piano for about four years. He has come to thoroughly enjoy playing piano for his own enrichment in the time he has been studying under Teacher Tahv. Wyatt has been working on piano pieces in the classic rock genre, and has recently performed ELO’s “Mr. Blue Sky,” and Earth Wind and Fire’s “September”. Wyatt’s dedication and skill have also earned him a spot in this year's upcoming Honors Recital, where he will be performing his rendition of “Imagine” by John Lennon. Check out the full Q and A below!
How long have you been taking piano lessons for?
I started it when I was seven. I'm 11 now, so four or five years.
How long have you been taking them here at Opus One?
I started last year in August.
Why did you start taking piano lessons?
My parents encouraged me while my brother was taking piano lessons and my parents encouraged me to take them too. Now, I like to play on my own because I enjoy it.
What do you remember about first coming to Opus1? Do you have any memories that stick out to you?
I felt really welcome here. I have always felt comfortable here.
How would you describe yourself in general, and how would you describe yourself as a piano student?
In my social life, I'm pretty outgoing. As a student, it's pretty hard work to be a good student. I always study what I need to to perform well. I practice piano every day.
How do you feel about performing for an audience? What has your experience been like at the recitals?
I was really nervous before I was playing, but once I started getting used to it, I was able to relax.
What accomplishment in playing piano or at Opus One are you most proud of so far?
I am proud that I enjoy playing piano more than when I first started here. I think practicing is sometimes hard, but once you get over it and practice, I feel like I accomplished something, and when I finish something that's hard, I feel proud of myself.
How have you liked working with Teacher Tav? How has he helped you become a better pianist and student?
So the past teachers I've had, they've taught music in a different way than Teacher Tahv, and I think Teacher Tahv’s way of teaching music is more enjoyable. He tries to help you perfect small pieces at a time. So it feels like every time you complete a small part you've accomplished something. So I think it's easier to keep going and practicing that way.
What lessons have you learned through studying music that you can apply to other parts of your life that will help you? How has this helped you become a better student?
I think even if practicing or the stage of developing a skill is hard, I think the end result will be worth it, and you should keep trying. This makes me try harder, and I am more comfortable putting my time into something if I know I am going to get a good result.
What advice would you give to other people who might want to try and learn an instrument, but are feeling scared, or like they can't do it?
I would tell them that it's totally fine to make mistakes, and the important part is to enjoy what you are playing.
What is your plan to prepare for the upcoming honors recital, and what piece are you going to be playing?
I'm going to be playing “Imagine” by John Lennon. What is important about that song is the general flow, so when I practice, I am focusing on that. I make sure to practice every day.
What do you think is the most important thing Teacher Tahv has taught you so far?
I think about chords, and how they support the whole melody of a song. I think that is very important to remember.
What is your favorite part about working with Teacher Tahv?
He's always fun and exciting, and he helps me choose songs I want to learn to play. He always plays me a bunch of music, and lets me choose the song that I like best. Whatever song I choose, is the one I will play at the next recital.