June 16, 2023
June Student of the Month: Orlann Louis-Marie
This June, we’re happy to highlight CCM guitar student, Orlann Louis-Marie, for our Student of the Month! Orlann has been taking guitar lessons at CCM for around 2 years. She currently studies at CCM’s Sunnyvale location with Teacher Rebecca. Orlann practice every day and has made amazing improvements over the years!
Student of the Month – Orlann Louis-Marie
What is your name?
Orlann Louis-Marie
How old are you?
10
Who is your teacher?
Teacher Rebecca
How long have you been taking guitar lessons?
2 years
What advice would you give to a guitar student just starting out at CCM?
Even if it is difficult, do not quit. Guitar is a good instrument.
What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?
Learning songs that have a fast tempo that others can sing along to.
What is your favorite thing about playing guitar?
It calms me down.
What is your favorite food?
Raclette. It is a traditional Swiss dish with melted cheese on potatoes.
Do you have a pet?
No
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
Soccer and climbing.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be a psychologist
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
My first recital because I had never played in front of a crowd.
Parent Spotlight – Gwladys Louis-Marie
Regarding guitar instruction, what are you most proud of your child accomplishing?
I’ve really seen my daughter grow through her guitar playing. She has become more independent and curious in her desire to learn more.
She is learning to overcome her frustration when a piece seems difficult at first and I’m very proud of her perseverance. She’s realizing that her regularity is paying off and she is proud of herself. That makes me happy!
What advice would you give a new parent starting in the program?
Starting a musical upbringing is always exciting at the beginning but it is a journey with ups and downs. It really made us question our intentions when our schedules were full and I was the one who had to remind the practice times. Learning an instrument is at the same time, rigorous and gratifying. I think we’ve reached a point in our family where we can confidently say that music education is here to stay.
Being present by your child’s side even if you’re not a musician seems essential to me. This is a great opportunity where I get to remind my daughter to be patient and kind with herself and congratulate her on all her efforts.
Why did you decide to give your child a musical upbringing?
Music is part of our everyday life in our family. We wake up with it, commute with it and go to bed through music. I think music is a beautiful way to connect with our emotions and with others. I personally didn’t receive any solid musical training and I knew it was something I wanted to create in my children’s life. The same way I consider plurilingualism as a wonderful skill, I see music as a gift that allows my child to express herself in a worldwide language.
