Recitals: Not a Four-Letter Word

It's always exciting to get new piano students ready for their first recital. My two new students, brothers (7 and 11), are asking lots of questions; "Does everyone play together?," "How do you know when to go to the piano?," "What happens after we play?" - all good questions for newbies.

I realize the words, recital or concert conjures up stress for some, usually due to bad memories of childhood performances. I always like to play up the "fun" angle - getting to celebrate music with others and expressing yourself. And, the more we do it, the more fun it is.

My 7 year-old says he's going to rent a tux for the recital. I told his mother that really wasn't necessary - but it's always nice to see enthusiasm.