ISSI Rocks!

Every summer, Zoe and I have the opportunity to go to the Intermountain Suzuki String Institute. The best way to describe it is "violin camp". We go there everyday from about 9 to 6. People come from all over the US (sometimes Cananda) to attend. Some years there is even a big group from Singapore. The teachers come from all over too.

There are usually a couple of concerts everyday, in addition her classes. They also have "Fun Night" which is basically and assembly where the teachers do funny skits and etc. Zoe also had enough room in her schedule to take a couple of non-violin classes (art and Dalcroze) as well. We had a lot of classes with Sophia, who is a student at the same studio as Zoe.

Zoe had GREAT teachers this year! Her technique teacher, Ms. Leidig, has some awesome teaching/practice ideas and really helped on her tone. Mr. Mutter, who taught her repertoire class, was so much FUN! He kept the kids and parents laughing. Prof. Pat D'Ercole taught Zoe's master class and I was surprised how the little things she worked on made such a big difference.

Ms. Ruth gave the art students so many awesome mediums to work with. Stuff we would never do at home (which Zoe often reminded me of). She came home with clay tiles, wax stamped cards, paintings, etc. etc. Theory was basically a computer class and Dalcroze is a was a great way to move around and break up the day. (FYI: The Dalcroze approach to music learning teaches musical concepts through rhythmic movement, expressive aural training, and physical, vocal, and instrumental improvisation.)

She looks forward to ISSI every summer. It is educational, fun, but most of all I think she just likes having me all to herself. It is very worthwhile any way you look at it!