Violin Contest Doesn't Leave Anyone Out!

May 3, 2009 at 5:46 PM

Hello Fellow V.commies,

As most of you know, I am passionate about the subject of teen and adult learners. So much so, I started my own website dedicated to encouraging, connecting with, and inspiring those who the music world has termed as "late starter."

Starting at 14, I well know some of the experiences of those trying to learn an instrument past the recommended ages of 9 and under. I know how hard it is to find opportunities such as camps, orchestras, and schools that cater to teen and adult beginners. I remember trying to apply for camps at 14, but I was intimidated by all the other 14 year olds who were applying who were so much better than me, having played for 5 or 10 years more than me already. I remember sitting down in prelude strings with 5 year old kids at youth orchestra rehearsal whilst hearing two girls my age playing the Bach D minor Concerto in the advanced level orchestra right in the other room. I remember yearning to be like them one day, but struggling with limited practice hours because of school, homework, helping my mom, caring for my little brother, attending college and working two part-time jobs--all at the ages of 14-16 until I went on to a university.

Now, I will not attribute my experiences to all teen starters or adult beginners because through the interviews on my site and the many who have joined my community, I know that we, "late starters," can have a successful music education and enjoy the benefits of music making without giving up or letting the constant distractions of life get in the way of music learning.

Oh my gosh, I went on a rant!! Well, the whole point of this blog today is to announce a wonderful event!!!

I am proud to be supporting a violin contest initiated and hosted by the wonderful violinist and music educator, Michael Hegeman. Late Starters, this a fantastic opportunity! Why? Because the contest is open to people of ALL AGES and ALL SKILL LEVELS. And guess what? If you request it, you can receive professional feedback on your submitted video from an awesome violinist! If you win, you can receive free lessons from Mr. Hegeman for a whole year. I can barely afford lessons now--I know I would jump on a opportunity like this!! Especially if you do not have a teacher or can not afford lessons in your area, this is who the competition is for. Those who do not have the same opportunities as others. And that is why I choose to support the cause.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dc-LqxeK9yo

From Bill Busen
Posted on May 4, 2009 at 2:25 AM

Apropos of a recent thread, according to his bio, Mr. Hegeman was a student of Philip Hirschhorn. As well as being a "grandson" of Leopold Auer through another teacher. Blessings on him for this idea.

Also, to clarify, he is offering these lessons by Skype, so it doesn't matter where you are.

From Michael Hegeman
Posted on May 6, 2009 at 6:54 AM

I wasn't a full-time student of Philippe Hirshhorn but attended some of his classes while studying at the conservatory. He made such an impact on me that it strongly influenced the way I play today. It is amazing how one single person can make such a difference in your life. Mr. Hirshhorn was an absolute perfectionist and demanded this from his students as well. I remember him as a kind person but he could be extremely strict with his pupils.

I initiated the 2009 VIOLIN LESSON CONTEST to enable violin students worldwide to have access to high quality violin lessons regardless of their background, location, or financial situation.

The contest is open to violin students of all skill levels residing worldwide, and has no age limit. Contest rules can be found on my website: http://www.michaelhegeman.com

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Violin Contest Doesn't Leave Anyone Out!

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