At Blossom Piano Studio, I bring the joy of music into hearts and homes through virtual private piano lessons.
You may be wondering why I named my piano studio "Blossom" instead of some catchy play on a musical word.
For one, I'm not so good at pun-based names.
The real reason?
I believe the benefits of piano lessons run beyond learning how to play an instrument and gaining a lifetime skill.
What Does “blossom” mean?
Blossom means "to grow or develop." Blossoming often refers to the unfolding of a person and the process of growth.
Ultimately, through piano lessons, the student unfolds as a person while learning new skills.
Why is this? Let me explain.
Playing Music is A Vulnerable Act
Playing music, the nonverbal emotional expression, is an inherently vulnerable and intimate act. Presenting yourself and your skills to others takes courage. Any performance venue, from a weekly piano lesson to a large concert call, calls for courage.
I still feel nervous playing piano for others, especially when playing an emotionally raw piece of music for a loved one.
Learning to step into deeper levels of confidence and to unapologetically take up aural space while performing requires inner work. The long-lasting positive impact of this inner work far outweighs the often recited benefits of taking music lessons.
Every Music Lesson Requires Courage
Consider the act of taking piano lessons. In every lesson, the student faces the challenge of vulnerably presenting themselves to their teacher. They come to the lesson prepared to perform the previous week's assignments. The student does so knowing that the teacher will listen to help them improve by both celebrating their wins and observing their mistakes. The student receives correction, practices challenging passages, and learns new skills. This takes vulnerability and courage on behalf of the student.
Each Note Played An Opportunity
As the student takes risks, tries something new, maybe fails, and maybe succeeds, each note played represents an opportunity for the student to grow.
When teaching, I instruct students on the ins and outs of music, music theory, and how to play the piano. More importantly, I talk about mindset, attitude, how to practice, and how to build confidence. These ideas are critical to learning how to play piano and how to tackle life.
Teachers Hold A Sacred Role in the Lives of Students
I hold my role in my students' lives as sacred. What I say and how I say it has the power to encourage the blossoming of the student, or it has the power to permanently discourage the students. (I still wear some of the scars of hurtful comments from past music teachers.)
I am often moved to tears when I witness one of my students step into their power and confidence, play a challenging piece of music, land the big hand position jump, or play with tenderness and ease.
It is an honor.
It is an honor to witness their growth.
It is an honor to sit with students in their vulnerability as they try new things despite the risk of "failing" at first.
It is an honor to help students grapple with new musical concepts.
It is an honor to hold space for my students while the blossoming of their inner person unfolds before my eyes.
For this reason, I chose the name "Blossom Piano Studio."
When you take lessons with me, you have a cheerleader on your side, not only musically but also in the "blossoming" of an individual.
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