At our 2010 fall Orientation, volunteers were introduced to a unique curriculum created by SMP veteran staff member, Naomi Siegel.

Dubbed the SMP Real Book, the curriculum is divided into "Units" that offer sequential music theory and performance teaching points, suggested activities and worksheets to serve as a resource and guide for tutors.  It also includes a workbook for students that provides more worksheets for practice, a note log and musical glossary to be filled in by students, and practice sheets.  

As part of the roll-out of the curriculum, our new Education Director, Danielle Koplinka-Loehr, developed a series of short "Written Unit Check-ins" and "Playing Check-ins." These low-pressure assessments are administered periodically to help students, tutors, and staff gauge each student's understanding of music theory concepts and growing performance technique.

These invaluable resources and assessment tools are just one exciting new feature of this landmark year of Seattle Music Partners!

Lara Downes offers encouragement and words of advice to one of our own young pianists at Bailey Gatzert Elementary School. (Photo by: Lee Talner)

Our collaboration with the U.W. World Series and Ladies Musical Club continues with stellar performances, most recently by acclaimed pianist Lara Downes.  In addition to several all-school assemblies, Lara coaxed the best from our students in a mini masterclass where she invited students to perform, offering words of encouragement along the way.  The students were lining up to show off what they've learned!  Next up: The Chiara String Quartet, The Harlem String Quartet and performances by various ensembles from Cornish College of the Arts. Learn more about upcoming UWWS guest artists! 

Ryan and his student in their lesson at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School.

Ryan Fang is a senior at Mercer Island High school, an accomplished pianist and violinist, and a 3rd-year tutor with Seattle Music Partners. 

Last summer, Ryan volunteered at Seattle Music Partners' Striking Accord benefit concert and was disappointed that he was not able to perform due to the lack of a piano in the venue.  However, Ryan was at the time planning a senior piano recital of his own, and the idea was sparked to, in his own words, "fuse the two ideas together to create one jam-packed concert."  

On Saturday, March 5th, 2pm at Prosser Piano in Tukwila, you are invited to hear Ryan perform his thrilling renditions of piano music by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, and Gottschalk, while simultaneously providing support for Seattle Music Partners' programming!  Don't miss your chance to hear this impressive pianist and dedicated SMP tutor.

Piano Music Lovers!

"Ten Grands" returns to Seattle with 10 sensational pianists performing at Benaroya Hall on April 1^st. Proceeds from the event benefit local music programs.  SMP has been a featured beneficiary of this event for the past three years thanks to the generosity of The Snowman Foundation.  Come support this worthy cause!  Learn more at www.tengrands.com. 

 Seattle Music Partners Staff