Friday, February 10, 2012

piano room reveal

Here is a little video of my new room. I asked James to play some background music to add drama. He was happy to oblige with a new song he is working on for the next recital. He is a great performer, but what kills me is his theory knowledge. He has been transposing songs for me ever since he learned different key signatures (I don't even know if that is what they are called). His teacher (she is wonderful) is big on theory and James just seems to get it.

The room looks like something out of the Pottery Barn catalog, no? Very beautiful.



I have tried so hard not to let my kids get behind in piano these last few weeks. I feel like I just can't let this one go. When my cancer came back in the leg last year, I thought long and hard about what I want to accomplish with my kids. It was also the time my sister bought me the book Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, and after reading it I felt sure that piano was something that would fit many of the things I wanted to give my kids. It gave them a skill, something to be proud of, something we could work on together, something challenging, something that they could always have. But mostly, an outlet.

I find myself, particularly in times of distress, staring at the piano and wishing so badly that I could pound out what I feel. That I could give my feelings a voice without having to speak. I am missing some way to express myself. Josh also feels this way. We have always said that our kids would play, but that book changed my attitude toward the whole thing. I don't expect them to be concert pianists or anything, but I do expect that when it's time for piano practice, that they be serious and don't waste time. I expect them to get it right. I also expect them to fight with me about it. And I expect to win these arguments.

I hired a piano tutor for the boys for now, as I am not very consistent with their practicing. I have spent an hour almost daily helping these kids out, and it makes me sick to think that we could lose all we have worked for. There is Tiger Mother blood in me now, and my children will keep up with piano.


13 comments:

  1. OK - first thing - James did awesome on his Beethoven - please tell him I said so! Way to go! And I love the fact that you are insisting on them having piano skills - GOOOOO MOTHER! I never heard of a piano tutor - that is serious business - I am impressed!

    And now - where did you get the file organizer that is sitting on top of your desk? I'm looking for something like that!

    I love reading your witty, uplifting, genuine blog. Thanks for sharing. The Atlanta Temple has your family name listed on a regular basis -many prayers are with you!! XOXO

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    1. Thank you very much Karie! I'm glad I found a reply button on the blog to say that. I will tell James for you, he loves praise.

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  2. Oh yes, and the room looks GREAT!

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  3. Karie, the file organizer came from Ikea. It was a steal at $9.99 for the two file holders and $5 for the three smaller organizers. They were on clearance so you'll want to go in soon. We loved doing the room for you Alisa!

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    1. I wish I found this button before, but thanks for your support Teri! I think your daughter Alisa is a beauty and I am so honored to share her name (I am her friend on Facebook).

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  5. Beautiful room, beautiful piano playing, beautiful Ginger napping on the floor. Alisa, your dedication to the boys piano is really paying off. It is really hard work as the mom, but it's worth it!

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    1. Jill, you and MaryKate were part of the inspiration for piano. I agree, it has been worth it.

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  6. I love the room. It looks so calming. Love the color and the furnishings. I'm also extremely impressed with the music. James is really doing well which speaks highly of his ability, but also of your efforts as a mother. Well done!!!

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    1. It was hard to change the room. I have a very found memory of you and Jill decorating it for me with my fist diagnosis. Thank you so much!! You will have to come see where the couch is now when you get back. Take care!

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  7. I love the room and love James and his piano skills. I think a room like that would inspire me to great musical heights!

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  8. Oh, and the dog, too. I love her. She just fits into the decor somehow.

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