Brass | Piano | Woodwinds | Strings | Voice | Percussion | Jazz
Following the mandatory "elective" period for all music majors, the piano majors congregate in the piano lab where they recieve their assignments for the day from Dr. Indergaard. The piano majors usually pass their days practicing independently, participating in master classes in "Room 260", or rehearsing ensemble pieces. In the middle of the morning, just as the piano majors begin losing their energy and stamina, Dr. Indergaard treats them to apples, granola bars, and espresso; for these few luxurious minutes, the piano majors are able to enjoy good food and good company in Dr. Indergaard's office. Then it is off to work again for the piano majors. Throughout the course of the summer, the piano majors studied the works of Impressionist composer Claude Debussy, wrapping up their study with a performance of Debussy piano solos. In addition to the Debussy unit, the piano majors collaborated on eight-hand piano ensembles, performing the Brandenberg Concerto No. 3 by Bach and the William Tell Overture by Rossini at the piano major culminating recital. So you see, it is not so easy being a piano majors; but with a dedicated instructor like Dr. Indergaard and a few cups of coffee, the piano majors saw all their dreams come to fruition this summer.
Information Provided by Madeline Myers
The Piano Majors had guest performers such as Dr. Scully who is a former GHP piano instructor and Dr. Hampton from Armstrong. Dr. Scully performed pieces by Beethoven and gave a brief lecture about Beethoven. Both Dr. Scully and Dr. Hampton gave master classes to piano majors.
Some students are selected or audition for a piano part for the GHP orchestra. Those students go to Whitehead auditorium at 11:00 to rehearse with the GHP orchestra.
Information Provided by Katy Hsu
Usually, Advanced Piano Minors practice for two hours in assigned practice rooms, with a 30 minute break. They learn and practice solo pieces in preparation for the Minors Concert at the end of GHP or for competition during the upcoming year. They also learn accompaniment for small ensembles or really cool 8-hands, 2-pianos works (like Beethoven's Egmont Overture). Minors receive individual lessons, ensemble coaching, and if they are lucky, food, from Dr. Indergaard. Occasionally, Minors attend special performances by other Music Minors or Guest Artists. Being a Piano Minor can become intense, but most of the time, it's a lot of fun.
Information Provided by Athena Lao
Beginning Piano Minors practice in the piano lab for two hours with a 30-minute break. They learn how to read music and play the piano. They also learn how to use my friend, Mr. Metronome. Each student receives a piano lesson everyday. Since the students have never played the piano before, we have a Performance Preparatory Class each week to help them prepare for the Minors Recital. They memorize at least 3-5 pieces a week. I enjoy teaching this class because they think playing the piano is easy :-)
Mrs. Maila Gutierrez Springfield
