Congratulations to all our students who took part in our inaugural piano recital at Steinway Hall in Scottsdale yesterday evening! The recital was introduced by the manager – Henry Welsby – and our students played a Steinway Model D, the same magnificent instrument found in concert venues across the world, including Carnegie Hall. Henry informed the audience that each piano is built by hand, and takes approximately one year to make. Students enjoyed the opportunity to play on this world-class instrument in an exquisite new venue in Scottsdale, AZ.
Our Young Performers Shine
The evening started with our Student of the Month – Khoi – playing one of his own songs from memory, as well as taking requests from John Thompson's Easiest Piano Course Book 1. Khoi recently passed Prep Performance with Distinction, achieved full marks in his theory assessment, and earned a Certificate of Completion from his John Thompson book.
Sadhanna continued the performance, demonstrating exceptional confidence and robust rhythmic playing. Five-year-old Mia played Bluey – with the audience calling out the names of the cartoon characters(!) – followed by Ba Ba Black Sheep. Boston played Down A River and Play with great posture, followed by Carry Me Back as a duet.
"Our students embraced the opportunity to perform on the same world-class instrument found in premier concert venues like Carnegie Hall."
Elliot played Ragtime Raggles, Funny Faces, and Row Row with rhythmic vigor and flair. Isabella played Ragtime Raggles with dynamic boldness, followed by a piece she sourced herself. Our resident three-year-old piped up that he would also like to play!
Kammy played Keep Cool with fluency and with her trademark tonal sensitivity, followed by Swinging Fingers and a hymn. Carly played the opening of Takeda Lullaby with beautiful tone, followed by a jazzy piece she played as a kid, demonstrating ambition, courage, and good humor!
Teacher Joins the Celebration
Rory played George Gershwin's The Man I Love – embracing the opportunity to play the wonderful New-York made instrument – followed by Belfast composer Darren Day's arrangement of Danny Boy. William finished the recital playing hands together with fluency and skill, followed by a song by Green Day.
Looking Forward
Thank you to all our students, parents, and family that came to our event. The support and enthusiasm from our community made this inaugural recital at Steinway Hall truly special.
Join Our Next Piano Meetup
Thursday, May 1st - Details to be confirmed
If you play (or want to play) the piano and would like to join our meetups, please register your interest at: www.rorydowse.com/piano-resources/phoenix-piano-meetup
