This April, we’re excited to feature CCM violin student, Scarlett Fong, as our Student of the Month! Scarlett has been taking violin lessons at CCM for just over a year. She currently studies at CCM’s Redwood City location with Teacher Emily. Scarlett has a natural gift of musicality and she’s always working hard to do her best in the lessons!
Student of the Month – Scarlett Fong
What is your name?
Scarlett Emerson Fong
How old are you?
5 1/2
Who is your teacher?
Ms. Emily
How long have you been taking violin lessons?
Since I was 4 years old. 1 year.
What advice would you give to a violin student just starting out at CCM?
That you can do it. Believe in yourself.
What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?
Something beautiful
What is your favorite thing about playing violin?
Performing for people.
What is your favorite food?
Pasta.
Do you have a pet?
No.
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
Ballet. Mandarin lessons. Tennis.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
A scientist and a violinist.
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
My recital last year when I played dancing partners with Ms. Emily on stage.
Parent Spotlight – Tiffany Fong
Regarding violin instruction, what are you most proud of your child accomplishing?
Violin has a very steep learning curve. The mental and tactile skills required are very challenging, and at times, can be very discouraging. She actually asked for a violin a few Christmases ago and was excited to play, but after starting and trying to learn, she wanted to quit. It was very hard. I’m most proud that she continues to persist even though it continues to challenge her. I am most proud that she tries to find the joy and fun in performing and doing it despite the many tears and frustration she has learning new things.
What advice would you give a new parent starting in the program?
It’s difficult to find the balance between pushing your child and letting them discover their passion on their own. I’ve framed violin as a responsibility that while not always fun, we must do to better ourselves. As is all things with our children, I am learning to be a better parent and guide too. There are important lessons in persistence, but also times when we can listen and give our child breaks or passes.
Why did you decide to give your child a musical upbringing?
She actually asked to play violin because I used to play. I had planned to put her in lessons later, but figured she was ready if she was interested. I think music is a really beautiful and personal avenue of expression. It’s a gift when parents provide those lessons and open doors for those skills. I’ve never met an adult who regrets knowing how to play an instrument or sing.
Gioachino Rossini is one of the most renowned Italian composers of the 19th century. His work influenced opera tremendously and he is considered to be one of the greatest composers of the bel canto era. Rossini’s melodic beauty, dramatic intensity, and sparkling wit are notable aspects of his music.
Early Life
Gioachino Rossini was born on February 29, 1792, in Pesaro, Italy. Rossini grew up surrounded by music. His father, Giuseppe Rossini, was a horn player and his mother, Anna Guidarini, was a singer. It was clear that Rossini possessed musical talents at an early age, and he began studying with his father and other local musicians. By the age of 12, Rossini was already composing music as well as playing the piano and violin.
In 1806, Rossini was accepted into the prestigious Liceo Musicale in Bologna. There, he studied with the composer and musicologist Padre Stanislao Mattei. He was a strict instructor who emphasized the study of counterpoint. Rossini learned valuable skills from Mattei, but he was still eager to explore new musical styles and techniques.
Early Works
Rossini’s composed his first opera, La Cambiale di Matrimonio, when he was only 18 years old. The modest success of the opera encouraged him to continue composing. Over the next few years, Rossini wrote a series of comic operas that established his reputation. These included L’italiana in Algeri (1813), Il Turco in Italia (1814), and Il Barbiere di Siviglia (1816).
Il barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville) is arguably Rossini’s most famous opera. It is a comic masterpiece that follows the story of the wily Figaro, as he helps the young Count Almaviva win the heart of beautiful Rosina. The opera is full of memorable melodies, witty dialogue, and clever plot twists. The aria, “Largo al Factotum,” sung by Figaro, is one of the most universally famous and recognizable pieces of music to date.
Gioachino Rossini’s success with comic operas earned him the nickname, Il Signor Crescendo (Mr. Crescendo), because of his skillful use of crescendo in his music. He mastered the use of crescendo as he built tension and excitement in the music with the dynamics.
Later Works
In the 1820s, Rossini began to stray away from comic opera and move towards more serious works. He composed a series of tragic operas, including Otello (1816), La Donna del Lago (1819), and Semiramide (1823). While these operas were well-received, they did not achieve the same level of success as his comic operas.
By 1829, at the age of 37, Rossini retired from composing operas. He had achieved great success as a composer, but he was exhausted from the demands of the opera world.
Rossini moved to Paris in 1832, where he became a central figure in the city’s musical life. He composed a series of works for the Parisian stage, including the opera Guillaume Tell (William Tell), which premiered in 1829. Guillaume Tell was Rossini’s last opera and is considered by many to be his masterpiece. The opera tells the story of the Swiss folk hero William Tell, as he leads a rebellion against the Austrian oppressors. It features a number of well-known arias, including the famous overture, which is frequently heard in popular culture.
Rossini’s later works show a departure from the bel canto style of his earlier operas. He began to experiment with new forms and musical techniques, such as the use of the chorus and the integration of spoken dialogue. As he became interested in French opera, his later works showed the influence of French composers such as Gluck and Meyerbeer.
Legacy
Gioachino Rossini’s influence on the opera cannot be overstated. His comic operas are still performed today and continue to delight audiences with their wit and humor. His serious operas, while less well-known, are still admired for their dramatic power and musical sophistication.
In addition to his opera contributions, Rossini was also an important figure in the development of orchestral repertoire. He composed several overtures and other instrumental works that are still performed today. His overtures, in particular, are known for their lively rhythms and catchy melodies.
Rossini’s influence can be seen in the work of many later composers as well. His use of the crescendo, for example, was adopted by composers such as Wagner and Verdi. His tuneful melodies and lyrical style were also influential on composers such as Donizetti and Bellini.
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The processes of learning an instrument and a language are very similar. Both involve commitment, exposure, and consistency. One of the most significant similarities is that they both require frequent practice to become proficient. Approaching music education like learning a language can be an effective way to learn and develop musical skills.
Similarities Between Music and Language
One of the most obvious connections between music and language is that they both involve communication. In language, we communicate through speaking and writing, while in music, we communicate through sound. However, when you learn how to play an instrument, you are also learning how to read music, which is a language in and of itself! These forms of communication, both musical and linguistic, express emotion, convey ideas, and tell stories.
Both music and language require practice and repetition to become proficient. Learning a language involves listening, speaking, reading, and writing regularly to improve comprehension and fluency. Similarly, learning music involves practicing scales, chords, and techniques to improve performance and musicality. The Suzuki method is very effective because it takes advantage of these similarities. Suzuki students prioritize listening to the Suzuki repertoire and other music to familiarize themselves with their instrument.
Another fun similarity is that music and language both have their own unique grammar and structure. In language, we use syntax, grammar rules, and vocabulary to create sentences and convey meaning. In music, we use harmony, melody, and rhythm to create musical phrases and convey emotion.
Methods for Learning
When learning a language, there are several methods that can be used to improve fluency and comprehension. These methods can also be applied to learning an instrument for an effective education.
Immersion
Immersion involves being surrounded by the language. This looks like watching shows or listening to podcasts in the language you are learning, or traveling to another country. This method is also extremely helpful when applied to music education. For example, attending concerts, watching videos, and listening to music can immerse you in different styles and genres of music. This can help you to develop an ear for different sounds and rhythms, as well as an appreciation for the cultural significance of music.
Practice
One of the most, if not the most, important aspects of learning a language or instrument is regular practice. Regular practice is essential to developing one’s skills, such as physical technique, tone production, rhythm, and more. Setting aside time each day to practice scales, arpeggios, and songs can help you to improve your musical abilities over time. Not only does practice help with progress, it also will help build confidence!
Listening
When learning a language, it’s important to listen to native speakers to improve comprehension and pronunciation. Similarly, when learning music, it’s important to listen to professional musicians to develop an ear for tone, phrasing, and expression. Listening to music can also help you to develop a sense of style and genre, and assist you in finding out what you like!
Reading
Reading is another form of immersion, but it’s important enough to be its own method. With language, reading helps improve comprehension and vocabulary. Similarly, reading sheet music helps musicians improve their sight-reading skills, as well as their understanding of music theory and structure.
Applying Language Acquisition Strategies to Music Education
Build a Solid Foundation
When learning a language, it’s important to start with the basics, such as vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Similarly, when learning an instrument, you must build a strong foundation and review scales, arpeggios, and chord progressions. These fundamentals provide the foundation for more advanced musical skills, such as improvisation and composition.
Imitate
Imitation is a common language acquisition strategy that involves mimicking native speakers to improve pronunciation and fluency. When learning an instrument, you’ll improve by imitating other musicians, or their teachers. This involves listening to recordings, watching videos, and attending concerts. By imitating their phrasing, dynamics, and expression, musicians can learn to play with greater musicality and emotion.
Develop a Music Vocabulary
Just as language learners need to develop a vocabulary of words and phrases, musicians need to develop a musical vocabulary of scales, chords, and tempo markings, and more. It’s important to learn and understand these terms early on so that you can continue to make steady technical progress.
Practice Regularly
Regular practice is essential. To make progress, musicians should set aside dedicated time each day to practice their instrument and work on improving their skills. This regular practice can help to develop muscle memory and improve technical proficiency, as well as build confidence and musicality. Practice sessions that are only 10-minutes are still more beneficial than none at all!
Get Feedback
Getting feedback on your performance can help you to identify areas for improvement and refine your technique and musicality. This feedback can come from teachers, peers, and parents, or even from recording and listening to your own performances.
Approaching music education like learning a language is an effective way to learn an instrument and enjoy doing it! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, applying these strategies can help you reach new levels of musical ability and creativity.
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This March, we’re so happy to feature CCM voice student, Chelsea Listwin, as our Student of the Month! Chelsea has been taking voice lessons at CCM for around 6 months. She currently studies at CCM’s Redwood City location with Teacher Kaori. Chelsea is always working hard to improve and she just landed the role of Sandy in her school’s production of Grease the Musical – congrats Chelsea!
Student of the Month – Chelsea Listwin
What is your name?
Chelsea Listwin
How old are you?
13
Who is your teacher?
Kaori Denoia
How long have you been taking voice lessons?
6 months with Kaori Denoia and a year with some other teachers.
What advice would you give to a voice student just starting out at CCM?
Don’t be afraid that other students can hear you through the walls, just sing!
What song are you looking forward to learning someday?
Raining on Prom Night from Grease the Musical.
What is your favorite thing about singing?
I can express myself without saying how I feel.
What is your favorite food?
Pizza.
Do you have a pet?
Yes, I have 3 dogs and a cat. Donner, my Bernese Mountain dog is my dog and my favorite.
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
I perform flying trapeze and Lyra in the Circus Arts and my school musical.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Happy.
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
When a parent listening outside the room complimented me on my singing.
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Parent Spotlight – Hilary Valentine
Regarding voice instruction, what are you most proud of your child accomplishing?
Chelsea just landed the lead role of Sandy in her school musical, Grease.
What advice would you give a new parent starting in the program?
Let your child’s interest be your guide. Let them lead you, don’t push them into something that you want for them that they might not want for themselves.
Why did you decide to give your child a musical upbringing?
We discovered Chelsea’s natural singing ability at a very young age around 5 or 6. We were told that it would be up to her if she wanted to develop her raw talent. A few years later, she asked for voice lessons and we have supported her in this interest ever since. And, because music is life.
This March, we are highlighting Tania León as our composer of the month. León is a highly respected composer, conductor, and educator. Her works have been performed by leading orchestras and ensembles around the world. Born in Havana, Cuba in 1943, she moved to the United States in 1967 to pursue her musical studies. She has since become one of the most influential and innovative composers of her generation.
León’s music is widely diverse as it includes a variety of cultural influences, including African, Latin American, and Western classical traditions. Her compositions famously consist of rhythmic complexity, rich harmonies, and a vibrant use of color and texture. Her works range from larger orchestral pieces to intimate chamber music. She also often incorporates elements of improvisation and electronic music.
Early Career
Music surrounded León while she grew up in Cuba and she started playing the piano at the age of four. Her mother was a pianist, and her father was a writer, poet, and politician. Her family was part of Havana’s intellectual and artistic elite, and they were active in the city’s cultural scene.
When León moved to America in 1967 to pursue her musical studies, she became a rising star in classical music. She studied composition with renowned composers George Perle and Ralph Shapey, and worked with jazz pianist and composer Ran Blake.
León’s music has a wide range of influences. She takes inspiration from her Cuban heritage, her classical training, and her experiences as a woman of color in America. Her compositions often explore themes of identity, community, and social justice. Additionally, she has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in classical music.
Notable Works
One of León’s most celebrated works is “Indígena,” a piece for orchestra that incorporates pre-Columbian instruments and rhythms. The New York Philharmonic commissioned and premiered the piece in 1991. It is now a staple of their orchestral repertoire! “Indígena” is a powerful testament to the rich cultural Indigenous heritage of the Americas and highlights different musical traditions.
Another notable work by León is “A la Par.” This is a piece for chamber ensemble that explores both Cuban and American musical traditions. The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center commissioned the piece and it premiered in 1998. “A la Par” is a testament to León’s commitment to celebrating diversity in her music as well as her heritage.
Other Endeavors
In addition to her work as a composer, León has been an active conductor and educator. She served as a guest conductor for many leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the National Symphony Orchestra. She has also taught at institutions such as Brooklyn College and the Yale School of Music. In addition to teaching positions, she mentored many aspiring composers and musicians.
León’s dedication to education and mentorship derives from her own experiences as a young musician. She has spoken openly about the challenges she has faced as a woman of color in the classical music world, and is a vocal advocate for greater diversity and inclusion in the field. In an interview with NPR, she said, “I want to make sure that other people have the opportunities that I’ve had – That they can be respected for who they are, and that they can contribute their own voices to the world of music.”
León’s influence extends far beyond the genre of classical music. She has collaborated with artists in a wide range of genres, including jazz, pop, and hip-hop. She has worked with notable artists such as Paquito D’Rivera, John Legend, and Common, and is a frequent collaborator with the jazz pianist and composer Geri Allen.
Tania León Today
In recent years, León has continued to push the boundaries of classical music, incorporating new technologies and interdisciplinary approaches into her work. She has collaborated with video artists and dancers to create multimedia performances and has even explored the use of virtual reality in music composition.
León’s impact on the classical music world has been profound, both as a composer and an advocate for diversity and inclusion. She has paved the way for generations of young composers and musicians, and her music continues to inspire and challenge audiences around the world.
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As a parent, you want your children to get the most out of their music lessons, which means consistent music practice. However, with busy schedules, it can be a challenging task to prioritize music practice. It is essential to have a plan or routine in place that ensures your child has enough time to practice, while also allowing them to participate in other activities and have downtime.
We’ve put together some tips for how make music practice a priority in your child’s busy schedule:
1. Set a Schedule
Following a schedule, as much as you can, is the best way to ensure your child gets the necessary time to practice music. Having a set time for practicing each day will help embed a routine and you’ll find that you no longer have to remind your child to practice.
2. Break it up into Small Sessions
It’s easier for children to focus when practice is broken up into smaller sessions. Instead of one long practice session, break it up into two or three shorter sessions throughout the day – even 10 minutes will suffice! This will allow your child to concentrate better during practice, and they will be less likely to become bored or frustrated.
3. Set Goals
Setting goals is a great way to maintain consistent motivation for practice. These goals can be short-term or long-term, and they should be achievable and exciting for your child. Encourage your child to write down their goals and track their progress on their own. This will help them gain independence over the practice and feel a sense of accomplishment when they reach their goals.
4. Encourage Independence
As your child gets older, encourage them to become more independent in their music practice. This may mean allowing them to practice on their own without your supervision and set their own goals, as previously mentioned. This will help them develop a sense of responsibility and pride over their music practice.
5. Use Technology
Technology can be a useful tool for prioritizing music practice. There are many apps and online resources available that can help your child stay organized and motivated. For example, Practice Space is a great app for tracking practice, homework, and setting goals. Teachers can even upload multimedia files into your child’s assignments so that there’s no confusion on what to practice. Ask your teachers about Practice Space!
6. Incorporate Music into Daily Life
Your child’s exposure to music doesn’t have to be limited to practice sessions. You can incorporate music into your child’s daily life by playing music in the car or throughout the house. This will help your child develop a love for music and may inspire them to keep music in their life.
7. Find a Practice Buddy or Audience Member
Practicing with a friend or family member can make music practice more fun and motivating. Assist your child in finding a practice buddy who plays the same instrument or who enjoys playing music in general. They can practice together and motivate each other to improve. If you can’t find a practice buddy, provide your child with a family member or friend who can act as an audience member. When your child finishes learning a piece they are proud of, it can be extra motivating to perform it for someone close to them.
8. Be Flexible
While it’s important to have a schedule in place, it’s just as important to be flexible. There may be times when your child’s schedule changes, and they can’t practice as much as they usually do. Instead of becoming frustrated, be flexible and adjust the schedule as needed. Remember that music practice should be enjoyable and sometimes challenging, but not stressful. If your child becomes overwhelmed, don’t hesitate, to ask their teacher to lessen the workload for a few weeks until your schedule gets back on track.
9. Check In
It’s essential to check in with your children about what gets them excited about music lessons. Encouraging your children to speak positively about their activities will manifest into engagement and motivation during music practice and lessons! Having these conversations will also remind your children that this is meant to be an uplifting experience for them.
10. Celebrate Success
Finally, it’s imperative to celebrate your child’s success. Whether it’s mastering a new piece of music or achieving a short-term goal, make sure to acknowledge and celebrate your children’s accomplishments. This will help them stay motivated and feel proud of their achievements. Plus, it’ll remind them that you are on their side when it comes to music practice!
Prioritizing music practice with a busy schedule requires a plan and commitment. We hope these tips were helpful to you and your children and we encourage you to be creative when it comes to the challenge of prioritizing music lessons and practice.
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Check out the video blog below on the benefits of music or continue reading for the full blog!
Music education is a fun and enjoyable experience for children, but also has a beneficial impact on their cognitive development and academic performance. Many studies have shown that having regular music lessons can improve skills, such as memory, attention, and spatial-temporal reasoning. Read below for more info on the benefits of music!
Spatial-temporal reasoning helps with mental rotation and visualizing the movement of objects, which can be exceptionally useful for math and science. Research findings also suggest that music lessons can help children develop more effective problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Additionally, music lessons have a direct correlation with academic performance. Studies have shown that children who received regular music instruction for at least one year scored higher on reading and math tests compared to those who did not take music lessons.
Children’s memory and attention skills are also improved with music instruction. Musicians have a better working memory capacity than non-musicians and this is due to the fact that playing music requires a lot of focus and concentration. This is instilled through regular practice and paying close attention to the notes and rhythms. Over time, this can help improve the ability to focus and retain information, which assists in successful learning in other subjects as well.
Music lessons don’t only impact cognitive skills, they also positively affect children’s emotional well-being. Playing an instrument instills confidence and good self-esteem for children. Performing in front of an audience gives them the opportunity to showcase their skills and take pride in their accomplishments. This helps build their confidence and make them feel more self-assured, which ensures a positive well-being overall.
If you’re looking for a way to help your child grow and develop, consider enrolling them in music lessons today at the California Conservatory of Music.
Sign up for a free lesson here!
References:
“Frontiers in Psychology” (2014)
“PLoS ONE” (2011)
“Journal of Neuroscience” (1997)
“Frontiers in Neuroscience” (2015)
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This February, we’re excited to feature CCM guitar student, Sachin Ravindran, as our February 2023 Student of the Month! Sachin has been taking guitar lessons at CCM for around 4 years. He currently studies at CCM’s Redwood City location with Teacher Chris. Sachin is committed to daily practice and is always making consistent improvements!
Student of the Month – Pardis Aghatehrani
What is your name?
My name is Sachin Ravindran.
How old are you?
I am 8 years old.
Who is your teacher?
My teacher is Chris Mann.
How long have you been taking guitar lessons?
I have been learning guitar for almost 4.5 years.
What advice would you give to a guitar student just starting out at CCM?
Learning a new instrument requires a lot of practice. It might feel hard at first but keep practicing and you will see yourself getting the hang of it.
What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?
I am excited to start Suzuki book 5 soon and look forward to learning Allegro Vivace by Mauro Giuliani because it is a very long piece that has many eighth and sixteenth notes and I want to get better at playing faster pieces.
What is your favorite thing about playing guitar?
I really enjoy learning how to play arpeggios because they help me play a song faster and I find that fun. My favorite song is Allegro by M. Guiliani in Suzuki book 4.
What is your favorite food?
My favorite foods are tacos and pizza.
Do you have a pet?
I don’t have any pets but would like to have a dog.
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
In addition to guitar, I take swim lessons and play basketball.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be an athlete when I grow up, either a football or a basketball player.
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
My first concert was my most memorable experience because it was on my dad’s birthday. I played Perpetual Motion from Suzuki book 1 and I remember being so nervous about performing in front of everyone. My dad sat with me until I performed and helped calm my nerves.
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Parent Spotlight – Madhavi Ravindran
Regarding guitar instruction, what are you most proud of your child accomplishing?
Sachin has gained a lot of confidence when he plays guitar and performs. I am proud that he has a positive attitude when it comes to tackling hard pieces and is always willing to put in the extra effort to fix his mistakes and perfect a song.
What advice would you give a new parent starting in the program?
I know getting your child to practice regularly can be a bit stressful and tedious, but it has been an additional way for my son and I to bond. Although I did not learn an instrument growing up, I love music and have learned so much about guitar through Sachin. So much so that I am equally excited about the next piece he is learning and that makes him more motivated to practice.
Why did you decide to give your child a musical upbringing?
Music, in any form, has always been something my husband and I wanted our kids to learn since there are so many benefits to child development. When Sachin was a baby he always gravitated towards the guitar in his toddler music lessons or at home with his toy musical instruments. He really enjoyed being goofy on the guitar and serenading his sisters that we decided early on to start formal guitar lessons.
For Black History Month, we’re exploring one of the earliest American guitar virtuosos — Justin Holland. Holland built a steady musical career as an arranger, composer, and performer, all before the turn of the Civil War.
Many people say Holland was one of the most important guitarists of his generation, avidly endorsing Christian Frederick Martin, who built and distributed the ever-popular Martin Guitars.
Justin Holland’s Personal Life
Holland was raised in Norfolk County, Virginia, and was the son of a farmer. When he was young, he showed a clear talent for music, even though there were few musical opportunities in his area. Luckily, he attended church, where he was able to hone in on his musical abilities.
Holland moved to Boston after his parents passed away when he was 14, though ended up staying in Chelsea, Massachusetts for a few years. It was here that he met Spanish musician and guitarist, Mariana Perez, who taught Holland how to play the guitar.
Perez ended up being one of Holland’s most prominent musical influences, alongside Simon Knabel, who was one of the members of the Ned Kendall’s Brass Band, and William Schubert.
Holland noted that Schubert was a “brilliant” guitarist and performer, helping him make tons of progress on his instrument.
Because Holland was young and did not have the support of his parents any longer, he worked for many years as a laborer while perfecting his craft.
When he was 20 years old, he attended Oberlin College in Ohio, staying there for two years before traveling to Mexico to learn Spanish, as well as more about the Spanish guitar methods. It was during this time that Solomon Northrup, a fellow musician and fiddle player, was abducted by slave traders while in Washington D.C. Northrup was the man who wrote about his 12 years in bondage in Twelve Years a Slave.
In 1845, he returned to Oberlin and got married, becoming the “first black professional” in Cleveland.
He taught guitar lessons in Cleveland, seeing high demand for his services. During this time, he also wrote 20 pieces, including Flowers of Melody, Bouquet of Melodies, Gems for the Guitar, and Winter Evenings, all of which became nationally known. Beyond that, he arranged 30 duos for guitar and violin, as well as 30 duos for guitars.
Holland was very conservative in his approach to teaching, gathering a lot of influences and traditional techniques from European guitar masters. He later compiled his teachings into books, including Modern Method for the Guitar (1874) and Comprehensive Method for the Guitar (1876).
Beyond his time as a musician, teacher, composer, and arranger, he was very involved in the American Civil Rights movement. He helped many African Americans throughout the Underground Railroad and corresponded with European masonry groups for recognition and support.
Holland was eventually appointed assistant secretary to the National Negro Convention in 1848. He believed in emigration, similar to his colleague Frederick Douglass, which is why he relocated his family to the West Indies after Haiti offered assistance in 1858. However, after not finding many opportunities for himself in Haiti, he returned to Cleveland.
Holland passed away in 1887, achieving a remarkable measure of success in his short time on earth. His legacy was stamped on civil rights advancements and the development of American guitar playing.
The Influence of Justin Holland’s Music
While it was his playing that garnered him plenty of attention during his lifetime, it was his writing that helped him stand the test of time. After publishing Holland’s Method in 1876, which was the very first and one of the finest guitar instruction methods published during the nineteenth century, he solidified his place as one of the American greats.
Notable Facts
Holland was accepted into Oberlin after the college’s decision to allow African American students to attend in 1835. This was thanks to Asa Mahan, a renowned social reformer and clergyman who became the first president of the institution, arguing strenuously in favor of equal education for all.
Holland showed considerable talent at the young age of eight. He used a small book of verses as a foundation on which to write accompaniments for.
Holland’s set of Scraps from the Operas Arranged For Two Guitars became some of the biggest hits in the mid-1800s.
This January, we’re happy to feature CCM voice student, Pardis Aghatehrani, as our January 2023 Student of the Month! Pardis has been taking voice lessons at CCM for about 4 months. She currently studies at CCM’s Redwood City location with Teacher Chynna. Plus, Pardis has been taking guitar lessons at CCM for just over 5 years! Pardis is always prepared for her classes and did so amazingly at the last recital!
Student of the Month – Pardis Aghatehrani
What is your name?
My name is Pardis.
How old are you?
I am fourteen years old.
Who is your teacher?
My teacher is Teacher Chynna.
How long have you been taking voice lessons?
I’ve been taking voice lessons for almost four months now.
What advice would you give to a voice student just starting out at CCM?
I would probably say that they should practice whenever they can, since voice lessons don’t need much more than your own voice to practice, and to find the fun in it. It might feel a bit weird singing around the house or by yourself in your room at first, but over time it can become one of the most fun parts of your day.
What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?
Some pieces that I look forward to hopefully learning someday would probably have to be “Defying Gravity” from Wicked, or “Candy Store” from Heathers, but that would be far, far in the future. Another fun option could be anything from Taylor Swift’s discography.
What is your favorite thing about singing?
My favorite thing about singing is that it’s fun, it can feel euphoric at times when you can just let your voice go free.
What is your favorite food?
My favorite food is Persian food in general.
Do you have a pet?
Not really, but we have some chickens and bees in the backyard.
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
I play volleyball, guitar at CCM and am in a musical outside of my voice lessons.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Okay, big question, and I don’t really know, I’m just trying to set myself up to have options in the future, but being a Broadway actor could be fun, or maybe working in renewable energy.
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
My most memorable experience at CCM would probably have to be my first voice recital. It had not been my first recital, nor my first time singing in front of a crowd, but it was the first time in which I had been singing into a microphone like that, and my first time having a voice teacher like Chynna there to help me.
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Regarding voice instruction, what are you most proud of your child accomplishing?
She enjoys singing and has gained confidence since she started the course. Interactive and learning from Ms. Chyna has created significant passion about singing in Pardis, and also enhanced Pardis’s performance in other similar activities such as the musical show at the school.
What advice would you give a new parent starting in the program?
It is a great activity for students to attend. It boosts their confidence and helps the students enjoy their natural talent in using their voice.
Why did you decide to give your child a musical upbringing?
She is passionate about music as it helps her to express her feelings in a beautiful manner.