Over a year ago, Ania arrived for her first lesson at my El Cerrito piano studio.

A graduate student in the Sciences at UC Berkeley, she had passed through the esteemed Massachusetts Institute of Technology with flying colors.

The Back Story

Ania first undertook piano study in her native country when she was 12 in the company of her younger sister who eventually devoted her efforts to the violin.

In the meantime, the piano teacher had contacted the sisters' parents and made the choice to discontinue Ania's lessons though retaining her sibling--A disappointment for Ania because she loved the piano and had an abundance of enthusiasm.

Those very characteristics resonated into the present when Ania had a second chance to realize her dreams.

Not only did Ania whiz through Faber's Adult Accelerated Beginner Book (as a basic review) but she moved on to the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic repertoire with a special devotion to practicing thoroughly and in detail. (All teachers should have such conscientiousness and tenacity rolled into one student)

Ania's fine work is on display as she takes baby steps in learning the "Cradle Song" by Rybicki, a Polish composer. The second video contains my suggestions on how to practice the composition.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xp_qk84aJQg


Ania's repertoire includes: Minuet by Hook, Sonatina by Latour, Bouree by J.S. Bach, and Mazurka by Maria Szymanowska (another composer from the homeland)

In a few words, it's a joy to teach Ania who will break down doors, and brave inclement weather to get to her lessons.

Bravo, my dear pupil! браво мой дорогой студент!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKbqGUYVVkI

***
Bio, Felix Rybicki (1899-1978)

Born in Warsaw, Rybicki was a prominent composer, conductor and teacher. He wrote considerably for children in addition to composing major orchestral and vocal works.