Why Playing Music in an Ensemble is The BEST
For most of the students I work with in my teaching week, their first taste of violin is purely of a solo nature. One of the reasons I enjoy teaching individual lessons is the ability to work one on one, getting to know the student and the parents in a unique way that I believe is difficult to replicate in the classroom setting. But how do we help our students prepare for playing with others? Especially for string instruments, large ensemble works are so important to what our instruments can do - Think of Beethoven's symphonies or Haydn's string quartets. What I've noticed as an often occurrence is stage fright does kick in if students are never exposed to other players or people outside of their circle of friends and family. How do we expose them to larger works for either chamber groups or large symphonies outside of assigning more listening homework?
This is where group lessons and participating in local community groups or summer camps come into play. Only so much can be accomplished for a student in the private lesson and a teacher can only simulate playing with others by playing duets or accompaniments for so long. I work hard to keep students informed on the group opportunities available to them throughout the year and have prioritized offering limited, free group lessons in the summers to help my students become exposed to these experiences. Here are a couple of the reasons I truly believe playing in a group benefits all music students:
Discover new music– This is a great way to experience new composers and styles that may not naturally occur in the solo repertoire. Composers have their favorites, too! Some preferred to stick with solo repertoire, others were gifted at symphonies and still others excelled at writing quartets or trios. Groups expose you to sides of different time periods and composers you would have never seen if you stuck with solo repertoire.
Meet other like-minded people– Whether you are five or sixty-five, learning an instrument requires dedication much of the general population doesn’t have experience with! Finding others going through the same struggles as you can be encouraging and as you get through the hurdles, you create a unique bond.
Hone your skill – Think your sense of rhythm is precise? Do you know where each note is on your instrument? There is nothing like testing your knowledge by jumping into a group where others are supposed to be playing the same thing as you. You might find that you need to brush up a couple techniques you had assumed were under control.
Develop sensitivity – Just like you might say a word emphasizing a different syllable than another person, playing with others can open your mind to other possibilities in your own playing. Perhaps they hear a certain phrase at a higher dynamic than you, or perhaps they play a certain passage in a different part of the bow. You can use this new perspective to further develop your musicianship.
Behavior Management – Perhaps your child isn’t as careful with their instrument as you would like. Or maybe we’re wishing your child understood the far reaching consequences of practicing diligently at home. Group lessons are a great indirect way for your student to see a better way to approach their music lessons. Even if they just learn how to better behave in a group or concert setting, isn’t that an accomplishment?
Parent Support – By attending group classes, you will have greater exposure to other parents in a situation similar to yourself. Parents who value the arts and the character traits this encourages in a person. It can be an amazing thing to connect with others who hold the same values and ideals.
These are just a handful of the benefits I see when my students get to participate in musical groups. Feel free to ask what others might exist specifically for you or your child. In Hagerstown, MD and the surrounding areas, I am so thrilled to see so many opportunities for people to get out and interact in a musical way. There is the Shepherd Community Orchestra and Junior Strings, offered in the spring, fall and summer only a short drive away in Shepherdstown, WV. The Cumberland Valley School of Music also offers a five week community orchestra in the fall and spring with Herm Hopple.
Even if you aren’t in my area, I hope this helps you brainstorm places for you to look for similar programs in your area. There truly is something for everyone at all ages, levels and commitment levels, and it is my hope that every one of my students takes the time to play in a group at some point in their musical journey.
For other teachers, I would love to hear what benefits have you observed from playing with others? Either for yourself or your students. How do you encourage participation in your studios? Let me know in the comments below or on Instagram – Find me at @shawstrings!