These tips will help to show/explain how exactly the recital works and runs. (I have or will be discussing each of these with every student at our lessons and we will practice going over them, but it is always helpful for parents to go over them with the child as well.)
1. When you arrive at the church you will get a program with the order of who is playing when. Please keep track of where you are in the program. To help keep the recital moving along is no emcee and no announcing of names of students or pieces.
2. Choose any seat you wish. Students and families can all sit together.
3. When it is your turn please walk up to the piano, stand beside the bench, turn to face the audience and BOW - don't forget to smile! (Audience claps here)
4. Sit down, adjust the bench if you need to, get your music in order, find your hand position, Take a Deep Breath, and play. (do not rush any of these items. Rushing can lead to more nerves and possibly more mistakes) Remember if you make a mistake, it's ok! Try your best not to stop and fix it but just keep playing.
5. After you play your last notes, put your hands in your lap, then stand up, get your music, face the audience and BOW - don't forget to smile! (Audience claps here)
6. Walk back to your seat, the next person walks up.
When everyone has finished performing, I will usually say a few closing words which are followed by the reception of goodies and drinks.