Dear NWSMTA members,
This is a poem a student wrote for me on the occasion of her Book Two recital. She is now a successful woman who has traveled the world. I have always treasured her poem. It hangs on my wall, where people occasionally stop to read it. I think of her often, as well as her sister and brother.
I am grateful for the many students I have had the pleasure of sharing music with. If I had an impact on them, it pales compared to what I learned from them.
A SHORT STORY
“What comes from the heart goes to the heart”
“Long Long Ago”
I started playing the piano.
I learned from Mrs. Lynch
However, from the very first start,
Mrs. Lynch, taught me to play from my heart.
I practiced “Cuckoo” and “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,”
Sweated through “Sonatina” and “Arietta.”
I saw “London Bridge” falling,
And heard “Aunt Rhody” calling.
“French Children” came to rescue and play.
The pleasure was surely not far away.
I stumbled through “Chant Arabe,” “Musette” and “Allegretto Two.”
My fingers became sore, they turned black and blue.
I realized I wasn’t finished with just one Minuet,
Mrs. Lynch of course had four more for me in a duet.
I huffed and puffed and met “A Little Playmate.“
I said “Goodbye to Winter” in honor and good faith.
I met a farmer in swift pace,
And greeted him happily with a smile on my face.
I fluttered and shuffled, stepped in and out,
Pranced joyfully around, the Scottish were proud.
I whispered “Christmas Day Secrets” in elegant performance,
Received applause and a bowing audience.
I was able to present all my pieces with my eyes closed.
With one little finger and no music under my nose.
And today, on my graduation here,
I salute and thank my best teacher for all her love and cheer.
She taught me and many other children, too,
That playing piano is the most wonderful thing to do.
by
Christiana Stephan
Deborah Lynch
Newsletter Editor
