A Semester in Review: Masterclasses, Growth, and Gratitude
As the New Year quickly approaches, I would like to take a moment to reflect on our students’ hard work over the past semester. It is my hope that the coming semester will be even more productive, made possible by the students’ dedication and the wonderful support from their parents.
Masterclass Weeks. Each semester, we hold two weeks of masterclasses. Our fall semester masterclasses were very well attended and truly a great success. It was incredibly energizing to see the students’ excitement and to hear the laughter that filled the studio. In preparation for the week, I designed the curriculum and customized it to meet each student’s individual needs. In addition, our studio assistants created some fantastic games that everyone thoroughly enjoyed.
I feel so fortunate to have been surrounded by the students’ enthusiasm and joy, within the festive atmosphere they created in the studio. I am very proud of the students’ progress and would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the parents for their continued support throughout the semester.
Studio Assistants. We had an absolutely wonderful time during our recent masterclass week, and I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize how hard our studio assistants have been working behind the scenes this semester.
Beginning in the summer, our assistants helped organize enrollment documents, schedules, and the studio calendar. Throughout the semester, they also assisted with make-up lesson coordination, along with the design of engaging games for our masterclass weeks. To prepare for the masterclasses, we first held an online meeting where I outlined our goals and focus areas, after which the assistants designed creative activities. This was followed by an in-person meeting where we reviewed and tested the games to ensure the best possible experience for the students.
While I lead the teaching and lesson planning, our wonderful studio assistants support the students and help guide activities during the masterclasses. It has been especially rewarding to see them apply the theory and performance knowledge they have gained over the years to help younger students learn and enjoy the process. Their presence also provides students with positive role models, offering a glimpse of what they themselves may become in the near future. This creates a meaningful, encouraging, and joyful learning environment for everyone involved.
Below are a few photos I took of our studio assistants leading activities during the masterclasses.
I can’t wait to see all of our students in the New Year after winter break. Throughout the spring semester, I am confident that they will continue to grow, progress, and absolutely shine at our annual recital.
