Reposting here after I erroneously started a new thread in the MSM forum.
It seems like all the other older pre college threads have been closed so I am starting a new one. My daughter is considering Mannes pre college for next school year. She is turning 11 this year and has been studying piano since she was 3. I’d like to ask if anyone can refer someone in the piano faculty who could be a good fit for a teacher. The qualities I think would be great to have are:
- Experienced concert pianist.
- Well rounded (ie, good in ear training, sight reading, musicianship).
- Professional and personal maturity.
- Emphasis on grooming young raw talent with strong fundamentals and inspiring a love for music, as opposed to "competitiveness".
Basically the above are the qualities of her current teacher, whom she will be sad to leave, so having similar traits and qualities would make her transition easier. I looked at the Mannes website and based on the bios the following teachers look like good prospects:
- W. Komaiko
- Valjarevic
- Andjaparidze
- Eckert
Would appreciate thoughts on the above. I attended the Mannes open house so I know the curriculum, but it was hard to get further insight on teachers themselves.
You may find that people on this CC board are reluctant to “name names” on a public board that is easily searched. Kind of like a “Rate My Professor” - this can easily become offensive.
The obvious questions that come to my mind (undoubtedly thought through on your part, but just not obvious to readers):
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What recommendations does the current teacher have?
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Why is your D leaving the current teacher? Many good teachers help their students move on to teachers that can take the student to the next level if a teacher change is necessary. Have you discussed the question with the current teacher? Sometimes a teacher doesn’t realize the seriousness of a student and will “up the game” which can be an alternative to changing teachers.
Momofadult,
I recall raising this subject with the teacher/school a couple of years ago but they sounded reluctant to answer my questions. I do not feel that I would get a good answer from them. I could ask them to increase the rigor/intensity of their instruction - their older students have done well and past students have been admitted into LGA and/or conservatories. That said, since we live in the suburbs near NYC, we have access to quite a number of pre college programs within short commute and we are eager to take advantage of them.
The purpose of my inquiry is not to bash or shame teachers, but understand who would likely be a good fit. I have no doubt that most of the Mannes prep faculty are excellent. But as the saying goes, some teachers are happy with nurturing raw talent and making them better. Others want to teach stars or kids who will win competitions. It’s the former that I feel my child would be a nice match for my child.
I know Andjaparidze and Valjarevic, and both of them are excellent teachers. However, Andjaparidze doesn’t teach in the Prep, I think. She only teaches in the Mannes College Division. Valjarevic teaches in both the Prep and College Divisions, and he is a truly fantastic teacher and person. I would HIGHLY recommend him for your daughter. Valjarevic is very patient, warm, and kind person. He shows genuine interest in fostering a love of piano performance in young students. His students enter local piano showcases frequently as performance opportunities, but you and your daughter will find him a truly wonderful instructor.