The SAO Board Area Representative for 905N (also covering 705/807) is Susan Beth Barak. You can send her your news at info@heart-strings.ca or contact her at 905-898-4726.
Heart-Strings Talent Education has been active with online [mostly] weekly groups as well as private lessons. A special family workshop was held on January 16, 2021 featuring mezzo-soprano Linda Condy, “Singing in the New Year.” It was wonderful to expand our skills and raise our voices joyfully together in the spirit of Dr. Suzuki.
For Black History Month, Susan Beth Barak organized several group activities, highlighted by a special Introduction to Black Classical Composers and Musicians workshop delivered by Chenoa Alamu for the Newmarket & Area chapter of ORMTA (Ontario Registered Music Teachers’ Association). Susan is also an active member of the Canada-wide Suzuki DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) committee.
Looking ahead, students who auditioned successfully for the Newmarket & Area ORMTA Honours recital will be featured in another online recital this spring. Students have also done brilliantly with online RCM exams. But it is vital to note that the real magic and core of Suzuki is that regardless of the fantastic instrumental musical skills we are developing, we keep centred the idea that our community is focused on centring character, and developing beautiful, noble hearts.
With more emphasis on social and emotional learning, Heart-Strings has also embarked on a practice buddy program to help foster closer connections with group members, and maintain motivation and collaboration throughout the week. As always, we continue to welcome all creative collaborations with other studios, albeit still online at this time.