Flute Lessons in Austin, TX

Lauryn L

Instruments: Violin Viola

If you play more than one instrument, how did you decide to start playing the second? (Or 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc)!
I started off with piano in 1st grade, and played until about 8th grade. I stopped because I was playing viola at the same time, and decided that I liked viola more.

Does music run in your family? Tell us a little about your musical family members.
Sort of. My parents aren't musical, but all my siblings are! (besides my brother who much prefers spending his time learning about technology than practicing).

When did you decide to become a professional musician? Was it a gradual decision or was there a defining moment for you?
I am still figuring that out. I love music, and I feel happy and accomplished when I make beautiful music, but I am only 19, and still don't know what I'm doing with my life! :)

If you weren't a musician what do you think you'd be doing instead?
I think I would be a college student studying design, or fashion. I also would love to be a makeup artist.

What is your favorite style/genre of music to play and why?
I love beautiful, romantic, lyrical music, whether that be classical, or pop. I love playing popular songs by ear, and I love in orchestra when we play slow movements by famous composers.

If you have a Music Degree, what is it in (Performance, Education, Musicology, Theory, Composition, etc) and why did you choose that degree?
I don't have a music degree, but currently I am working towards a Viola Performance Degree at BYU. I chose this degree because I know I like music enough to pursue a career. But, I keep my options open for careers because I have a lot of interests.

What is your dream piece to perform and why?
Bach Chaconne transcription for viola. It sounds amazing and my dream would be to play it in a cathedral. Its a very difficult piece so its a good goal to work towards.

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am proud that I graduated from a music school conservatory. It was really hard for me. Every week when I went, I felt incapable compared to the other musicians. But, I got better really fast being in this rigorous environment. I am also proud that through years of musical experience, I have unveiled having perfect pitch. It took time, but now I have it and it is very helpful in the music world.

Do you use specific teaching methods or books? (Ex: Alfred, Bastion, Suzuki, Hal Leonard) Why did you choose them if you did?
No I don't. I think all methods are great. I am a new teacher, but I will likely use Suzuki because I learned a lot of pieces from those books.

What does a normal practice session look like for you?
Guess what? Practice is hard! But it makes you stronger. I struggle with practice, so I don't have a very consistent practice schedule. But I try to practice a few times a week. One practice session for me averages 1 hour. I usually either practice my pieces, or just scales and etudes. Sometimes learning how to practice is the hardest part, and I am still learning.

What do you think is the hardest thing to master on your instrument?
For me, the hardest thing is keeping my body relaxed and free of tension. Too much tension can affect the sound, and after a while your body can hurt. But taking breaks and stretching are great ways to help with that. Also, if you are still developing your aural skills, hearing notes can be difficult. But through practice and familiarity, I believe anyone can be good at hearing notes.

Have any of your students won awards or been selected for special honors? How have they succeeded?
No, I am a new teacher, but I would love to help my students reach their goals. I can help with auditions and competitions, recitals and school concerts.

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
My music teacher in preschool, although I don't remember too much, inspired me and started my love for music. Ever since, music has been an important piece of my life.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
I chose viola because I didn't know what it was! I had heard of the violin, cello, and bass, but I didn't know what a viola was so I was curious and decided to try it out.

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
I think if they love music, are constantly listening to music, playing, and singing, then it doesn't hurt to introduce them into music lessons and give them the opportunity.

When will I start to see results?
It's different for everyone, but I would say within a month or two. It can be longer or shorter depending on how much practice you do. So if you want to see faster results, be sure to practice on your own, and be kind to yourself during the learning process.

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
First step is to be in the right mindset. Make sure that you are happy, feeling creative, and ready to make music. A great beginning step is to simply open your instrument case. Once its open, you will want to play it. Tell yourself you will only practice for 10 minutes. Play for those 10 minutes, and you will likely find yourself wanting to play for longer. A little amount of practice every day is better than not practicing. Write down, or have a parent write down a to do list for the week of what you want to accomplish. Give yourself a reward for completing the tasks on the list.

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