In this interview, we meet Valentina, a 9-year-old pianist who, like her younger sister Tiana, has been making waves in the music world. Valentina has been studying piano with Teacher Chloe since August 2022 and recently earned third place in her age group at the Charleston Summer Music Competition. Her journey began at the age of four, encouraged by her mother, and she has grown into a confident performer. Valentina’s passion for music shines through as she shares her experiences, the techniques she’s mastered, and her aspirations for the future. Join us as we explore Valentina’s musical journey and her exciting goals ahead!
When did you start playing the piano, and how old were you?
I started when I was 4 years old.
Was there a person, or a song that made you want to play the piano?
My mom encouraged me to play piano.
How many years have you been taking lessons at Opus 1?
Over two years, starting from Aug. 2022.
Can you remember your first day at Opus 1? What was it like?
I felt scared and nervous when I first started.
Can you tell us about the competition where you won 3rd place? What was it like?
It was basically a completely normal piece I played before, and felt confident playing.
How did you prepare for the competition? Did you do anything special or different than usual to prepare?
I just did the same thing as usual. I practiced daily.
What pieces did you play, and why did you choose them?
I played “Sonatina in F Major Ahn. 5 No. 2 by Ludwig van Beethoven”. Miss Chloe chose it for me because it was a beautiful piece and I played it before in the honors recital.
What was your favorite part of the competition experience?
My favorite part was actually recording the piece.
Did you learn anything new about playing piano from participating in the competition?
Yes, dynamics and fingerings.
How did you celebrate after winning 3rd place? How did you feel when you found out you won 3rd place?
I felt an increase of self confidence, and self worth after finding out I won 3rd place!
What’s one thing you’ve learned at Opus 1 that has made you a better player?
I learned that dynamics are an important part of being a good piano player.
Has playing the piano taught you anything useful for school or other parts of your life?
Piano has helped with my motor skills, and finger dexterity. In school when I type using a typing app, called “typesy”, I don’t need to stretch my fingers and twist them much; and I’m used to it.
Do you think playing the piano will help you with things when you grow up? How?
Yes. Because I could sing better, and maybe go to a better college.
If a friend thinks playing an instrument is too tough, what would you tell them?
I”ll just tell them to do more practice, and keep trying.
What do you do to get ready before you play in front of people?
I take deep breaths and think nobody is in the audience.
Do you want to keep playing music as you get older? Why?
I want to keep playing piano as long as I have time to practice!
What’s something really important Teacher Chloe has taught you?
She has taught me to read music faster, proper fingerings,and how important dynamics are.
What do you look forward to the most when you go to Opus 1?
I look forward to practicing and getting better.
What is your next goal with your piano playing? Are you planning on another competition, or preparing for an upcoming recital?
My next goal is to read a measure in less than 3 seconds. I’m also preparing for an upcoming honors recital and the United States Open Music Competition.