Master Classes
Jacquelyn Helin
Master Classes allow artist teachers at the highest level to work with students on musical concepts they may never have considered. What are the ineffable qualities that make for a powerful performance? Often they are the most sophisticated elements of timing, voicing, emotional commitment - the very things that an artist teacher knows firsthand from performing themselves.
"You proved yourself a special human being and superb communicator…through your music during the concert. Your generosity as a performer was even more evident during the master class. Students were radiant and their piano teachers were very impressed. Perhaps one of the most telling remarks following your time with us came from Jess Smith, former director of the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music: ‘She is a superb performer and teacher…I came away very impressed and hope you will bring her back.’”
Sharon Morgan, NEWPORT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Master Classes typically involve a number of more advanced students performing for a master teacher in a group setting which is also open to the public. Typically the presenting organization selects the students to perform and the artist teacher hears them one by one in the class.
For the student, the big draw is the opportunity to play for and receive the feedback of a well-respected performing artist. It is always illuminating to hear someone else’s response to one’s music-making.
For the audience, a Master Class can be a wonderful opportunity to witness a young artist learning his or her craft, and even auditors to a Master Class can learn much from hearing the master teacher’s comments and critique.
I often give Master Classes in conjunction with performances at Colleges or Universities, or for Professional Music Teachers Groups.