Judy Tyson-Kopolow — Learning, Healing, and Holding On

"Hello Rex,

I learned that I will receive, tuition free, the number of weeks I was unable to participate in the Mentorship program (due to house fire, no piano) My heartfelt gratitude to you for speaking up for me.

Being in the Ridley Academy, being ‘coached’ by you, has been so enlightening, enriching. I’m learning so much “piano sense”. I didn’t realize there was such a thing as a teaching strategy for the piano that could work for me. So helpful for you to tell me which finger drills to use to help my 4th and 5th finger perform well. And reminding me of the hand stretches 👍

I have a lot to think about and explore. im not at the learning stage where it is intuitive to know which exercise will help me get through a rough spot. I trust that will come in time. When I listen to your comments I’ve begun to take notes. i think that will help me retain your suggestions.

I’ve been a bit limited in the time I’ve had available to spend with my piano. So, as I said months ago, please don’t give up on me. it hurts my heart a bit to not spend the time I want to spend on playing. I do know this is temporary so that helps.

By the way, Weeks ago when I started to learn the 12...blues: For the blues piece, I picked “Persian Kitty”. My brother used to sing it and accompany himself on the guitar. I searched You Tube to get all the words. (Note: I found nothing like the smooth jazzy song my brother had played for me. I started putting chords to the melody and realized Persian Kitty was a Blues progression! I used your blues lesson, and sang (not at all ready for prime time) the song! It was an “A Hah” moment. I’m tickled pink that I discovered Persian Kitty is a Blues progression). It’s not that I’m a pianist yet. But I’m thinking 🤔 like one. 😊😊"

— Judy Tyson-Kopolow, Ridley Academy Student 🎵