Dr. Ka-Wai Yu “Using Artificial Intelligence in String Education”
Artificial Intelligence has rapidly developed in recent years and has been having an important influence on many aspects of our lives. How would AI technology affect string education at K-12 school and university-level? How can we take full advantage of this technology?
In the first part of this session, I will discuss how several applications using AI, have been helpful for string education. Music researchers in the United Kingdom and Spain are developing the application Skynote, in which AI recognizes sound quality, posture, intonation, pitch, rhythm and expression of string performance and gives suggestions to the students of all levels. Applications such as Cadenza and Mypianist provide piano or orchestra accompaniments for rehearsals following the performers’ tempi and dynamics. AI can also recognize compositional style and period (e.g. Baroque, Classical) of the music played in real-time. It can generate relevant images and videos based on the musical genres and compositional style it detects.
Besides introducing pre-existing AI-based software programs and applications that can be used for string education, in this last segment, I will also introduce my ongoing research collaboration with five professors at Purdue University thanks to a National Science Foundation grant. Based on an online survey that we have conducted, only one out of sixty musician teachers have been using AI technology regularly in music making and education. Most are not aware of those applications that may be helpful for string performance and education. We will discuss various benefits for effective learning, recruiting, community engagement and outreach for youths and adults through the use of AI technology.
Sue Buzzard “Your Guide to Jazz Improv in the String Classroom”
You and your students will learn and play fundamentals of jazz improvisation, including scale degrees, baselines, and chord structure and harmony. Every student will learn every part – melody, base, and chord tones – so no section is pigeonholed to “melody” or “backup”.
By the end of this lesson, any and every student can lead their own jazz jam with all the parts! Includes free backing tracks, pdfs and more downloads for continued play and practice.
David Crane “Rhythm is the Key”
This presentation introduces the idea that rhythm should be the primary focus when playing, performing or learning music. It is divided into three main parts. The first is an introduction to rhythm and how it forms the basis of how we move, speak and interact. It is the framework with which we experience life. The second part is a practical instruction of how musical rhythm ‘feels’ in our bodies. Participants will experience the feel of a ‘beat’ and then the different rhythmic note values. This is completely a seated activity utilizing clapping, arm movements and counting out loud. Because this presentation is directed to string players, we will also discuss the vital role the bow plays in guiding the rhythm of playing. The final part will be an opportunity for 2-3 of the participants to demonstrate practical application of these principles to show how they can be utilized in both teaching and individual practice. Participants will see how when we focus mainly on the notes and sounds, the brain loses its place, and it makes playing feel difficult or confusing. By letting go of the importance on notes, temporarily while focusing solely on the rhythm, you are able to open up the mind and use the knowledge already there. You feel more calm and learn pieces more quickly. This can also contribute to better performances and expression. We will also focus on techniques for identifying where you may be having trouble feeling the rhythm. These are techniques I have developed over the last 20 years as both a teacher and performer. All instruments and ability levels are welcome to attend together.
Angelica Salazar “Connecting Music and Dance — An Interactive Exploration of Meter, Pulse, and Style”
Music and dance have always been connected throughout history. A basic knowledge and appreciation of dance counting and character can be transformative for instrumental musicians.
I have my BM in Violin Performance and I am accomplished dancer with experience in Latin/Standard ballroom, figure skating, and ballet. I have taught specialty classes to students in the Utah Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra, Mountain Springs Music Festival and in my own private studio focused on connecting instrumental musical knowledge with fundamental dance concepts. I teach basic dance steps and styles through a lens that music students can understand. My goal in these classes is to help music students better understand the pulse and flow of different meters so that they can play their instruments with more musicality and intention.
In this class, I plan to explore basic steps from dances in 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4 meters. In the past I have taught steps from Samba, Can-Can, Minuet, Waltz, Cha Cha, Mambo, Rumba, Triple Step Swing, Bachata, Charleston, Ballet sequences, and several other famous dances from around the world.
When I teach these dance steps, I show rhythmic notations on the board so instrumental students with no dance training can visualize the counting before they learn how to do the steps. We discuss how the rhythms in the dance impact the pulse, flow, and character of the music. I have had various students, parents, and colleagues give positive feedback about these unique classes and I have personally seen students get more excited about exploring music through incorporating dance principles.
Having this fun class at the 2024 Fall Workshop would be an excellent way for fellow educators and teachers to get ideas for their own classrooms and studios. In addition, this is a fun activity for youth and collegiate students to participate in and try something new!
Sara Anderson “Who Had All These Kids Anyway?”
Parents have a huge responsibility to help their children succeed in all aspects of their lives. This responsibility can put a huge pressure on parents, especially if their child is struggling in something. They often are looking for ways to help, but it can be hard for them to know what to do. I will be presenting ways that teachers can help parents help their children succeed in music learning. Focus will be on what parents can do, as well as what teachers can do to help parents find success in helping their children.
Keynote by Robert Baldwin
Reading Session
Dr. Hasse Borup Violin Masterclass
Harp Masterclass (co-sponsored by the American Harp Society – Utah Chapter
Julie Edwards Viola Masterclass (co-sponsored by the Utah Viola Society)