Suzuki Music School Tenth Anniversary Concert To Be On The Stage

Of Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall

The Suzuki Music School of Westport (SMSW) has a lot to celebrate this year: its milestone tenth anniversary, and – more exciting for its young students – its upcoming May 27concert at Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall.

Over 160 children ages 5 to 14 will play their violins, violas, cellos, flutes, guitars and pianos on the great stage, as part of the “America’s Youth in Concert” series. Last year, SMSW students were invited to perform in the same series at legendary Carnegie Hall. This year’s program will include works by Bach, Debussy, Handel and Dvorak, plus Mozart’s “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” by the youngest students.

One of those performers next Tuesday evening will be Newtown Middle School student Amanda Watson. Amanda will be performing Debussy’s Petite Ballet for eight hands during the performance. She is one of just four SMSW piano students selected to perform during the special concert.

It’s hard to tell who is more excited about the concert, the children or the 13 teachers who will accompany them. Sarah Smale, a member of the school’s string faculty, is full of praise for the students’ focus and commitment as they prepare for their big day.

“I’m very proud of them for taking it so seriously. They really understand that this is something big,” said Ms Smale, who added that Suzuki training is a valuable tool in giving the children confidence when performing, and respect for the entire ensemble.

“They’ve developed a great sense of how to play in a group, listening to those around you,” she said.

Fellow Suzuki piano teacher Julie Chen agrees.

“They’re used to performing,” said Ms Chen. “So instead of being nervous, they’re happy about it.”

Amanda Watson has been a student with Suzuki Music School of Westport for ten years

“It’s really amazing to see all the progress the school has made since it began in the basement of a church so many years ago,” she said. “I feel proud to have been a part of the growth of the school, and honored to be playing … at Lincoln Center. It’s kind of surreal.”

Amanda’s parents, Linda and Robert Watson of Sandy Hook, are also happy with the school’s growth, along with its continued commitment to musical education.

“Amanda started piano at the age of 4, and at that time the SMSW was just formed and classes were being held in the basement of a church with about ten other children,” said Mr and Mrs Watson. “We’ve witnessed first hand how the school has grown into a wonderful place where children can express themselves musically and grow at their own pace, learning from the best musician/teachers.

“The quality of the school is what has kept us here, even after moving farther away from Wilton to Sandy Hook. Amanda has grown into a wonderful pianist, and her world is much richer and her options are endless thanks to the SMSW.”

For additional information about the concert call 203-227-9474 or visit smsw.org.