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In this episode of The Classical Guitar Corner Podcast, Simon interviews the world-renowned Beijing Guitar Duo, consisting of Yameng Wang and Meng Su. They talk about education and how these phenomenal young guitarists reached the level of playing and musicianship they have, as well as teaching and recording. This is an excellent conversation and a wonderful opportunity to hear from some of the most gifted guitarists of their generation. Please enjoy!
Check out more about The Beijing Guitar Duo at their website. They have recorded three stunning recordings you should definitely check out: Bach to Tan Dun; China West (with Manuel Barrueco); and Maracaipe – Guitar Duos and Solos by Gnattali & Assad.
Since I teach young beginners, this podcast is my favorite thus far. The dedication of these guitarists and their parents was amazing to hear about. Sixteen hour train rides to lessons just caused me to gasp!
What they said about the metronome was confirming. Young children just play fast. They also don’t like the metronome…at all. I really like what the duo said about the metronome being the teacher when the teacher is not there.
The other big factor that was confirming for me: parent involvement. It’s something I emphasize with all parents of young students. I have had students who’s progress is very slow, until the parent starts to monitor practice. I recently had a student who could not keep time at all, and it was not until the parent began to work with the metronome with the student that his rhythm improved immensely.
Being that “first teacher”, I see my role as laying down a foundation and nurturing the student, helping them to decide if they want music as enjoyment or as a serious course of study. Those who study seriously and have committed parents are recommended to continue on at a conservatory. But it takes commitment as the closest conservatory is about about a 1-1.5 hour drive or longer (LA Traffic). I will surely be mentioning the 16 hour train ride!
U.S. parents would not tolerate their children being “yelled at” or made to cry, nor would I want to do this; but I am definitely firm and work to help students carve out practice time in their schedules. I find it interesting that I require four 20-minute practice sessions a week for the little beginners (students and parents have to sign a practice contract at the start of taking lessons) and am considered “strict” in the community.
I was hoping you would touch on the topic of over-scheduled kids, but then realized they did not teach young beginners. Over-scheduled kids is my greatest challenge. Club Sports are especially tough on guitar success. Kids spend many hours a week at sports practices and tournaments. A tool I have used, to help parents/students see the reality, is to have kids write down their schedule and color in the different activities. Many parents are shocked to find there really is no time for guitar practice; and for many, it is a good wake-up call to make choices.
Thank you for another wonderful podcast – I always walk away with new ideas!
Incredible timing! I had tickets for the Beijing guitar duo in Montréal on Wednesday, and what do I see Monday morning on the CGC website? A podcast with them! Thank you, I enjoyed a lot and I can’t wait for the concert!
Enjoy the concert, Gino!
Peace,
Dave B (CGC team)