Meet our September Member of the Month Mary Socall. She and her husband Dave are from Westchester, Il. Their son Brian has two sons Ellis who is 4-years-old and Lewis who is 2-years-old. Mary is currently enrolled in Busy Moms and is working with Ellis who is enrolled in Busy Kids. They are a Busy family!
Q: What’s your musical background?
I received a B. in Music education in 1973. I have been a flutist for 57 years and I am a flute teacher at a local high school. I had two years of piano in college.
Q: Anything fun or unique you’d like to share about your family?
I have two older sisters who are flutists with degrees in music education. My family has four generations of professional musicians.
Q: How do you structure piano lessons/practice for your family? Any tips to share?
My grandson, age 4 has completed the piano camp to the best of his ability. His present lesson schedule is hit or miss due to school, so we “play” piano as often as possible. I provide live music enrichment opportunities like field trips to Chicago Grant Park Symphony and videos of kids playing piano. As a music teacher, I see his giftedness, discipline, desire and unique ability to listen to live music for over an hour, so this musical journey will evolve at his own pace.
Practice Tips: I usually practice piano two times a day for 30-45 min. I practice in small chunks until I feel no hesitation in rhythm or note accuracy. Then combine the small chunks into musical phrases. I shake my hands and take a break if I sense tension or fatigue and sit with a good posture.
Q: How did you learn about Busy Moms/Kids Do Piano?
I heard about Busy Mom’s and Kids piano courses by watching a video on Facebook and I saw how much ethusiasm and genuine care Carly had for each student. Also, I liked the family friendly policies and the ability to print her tried and proven piano method materials. She is a creative and caring professional musician and teacher who adapts her program for all learning styles and ages.
Q: Do you have any stories you’d like to share about your musical journey with piano lessons?
I did not have a piano in my home, so the only lessons I have had were in college while I was learning ALL the band and orchestra instrument concurrently. My husband bought me a new baby grand piano 24 years ago, but due to family and job responsibilities, I did not pursue lessons. This is NOW my time, and I am exhilarated to finally be on this journey with a beautiful piano!
Q: What is your goal with having your child learn to play the piano?
My goal is to fill my home with music, pass on the legacy of music, and be able to freely worship with the beauty of piano harmonies and unified hearts.