2023 Students' Reflections

2019 Silver State Classic Solo First Place

So I have been playing piano since I was four and the challenges and difficulties that I have experienced have been nothing short of a blessing in disguise. In the moment, yes I wanted to give up and forget about it entirely but looking back, I’m glad I didn’t and that there were people around me to encourage me. You tend to think that it’s impossible and you quite literally cannot accomplish it but chipping at it little by little really makes the problem seem smaller. Yes, piano is tedious and meticulous and it’s not the easiest to balance with the rest of your life, but I learned that piano could help with the other aspects of your life.

For example, learning Grieg’s Concerto in A Minor was the most difficult piece I have yet to encounter and it was hard not just because of the piece itself but also because it was long and dexterous and tedious in details. However, it trained me to be able to work with others as it was a concerto and exercised my patience even further and taught me how to deal with my frustrations in a healthy way. It strengthened my ability to multitask and dedicate my time to practice and focus.

But none of this would be possible without the support of my teacher Mrs. Juliana Kuo. She is not only supportive and kind but also talented and knowledgeable. There are many times where I have hit a block in a piece and was only able to overcome it with her help and guidance. She truly knows what songs suit me the most and are best fitted to my capabilities and interests. And her genuine kindness will always make you feel comforted and confident.

I also could not have done this without both my parents. They are always on my side and supportive of all my decisions and continue to give me strength every day to have confidence in pursuing my dreams as well as remind me of how much I am loved and that I will always have a place to come home to. It is because of all these factors that I was able to get to where I am today and I am truly grateful for it all.

Good luck to everyone, you really can do it.