Friday, August 12, 2011

A Tribute to my Piano Teacher

While I was in CA, my old piano teacher had a Farewell concert at my parents house. Dr. Thomas played several beautiful pieces along with several of his current and old students. It was fun to perform again and have a reason to practice.

Dr. Thomas was the head of the Department of Music at CSU Stanislaus when I took from him in high school. He lived in CA for 15 years and raised his cute family. He was more than just a teacher- he was my friend. And in fact, he still keeps in contact with me and helps me with my piano business. Talk about someone who has influenced me for the better. I use my music all the time in my life- it is a skill that I am grateful for everyday. Thanks to my parents for paying for lessons! And to my piano teachers, one in particular.

Dr. Thomas recently accepted a job at BYU Idaho and just moved to Idaho. It was so fun to be home for another one of his concerts. He is an amazing pianist, and an exceptional teacher.

So many times when I practice in my little apartment now- I wish and would give ANYTHING to take a lesson from him again. I regret not practicing more and taking advantage of the instruction I was receiving in high school. One of his current students, Doug, is only a Sophomore in high school and is WAY better than I ever was. He is passionate about playing and realizes his potential and is doing amazing! Listen to Doug here. I feel a little guilty that I was the student who got to take from Dr. Thomas through the end of high school. I really feel for Doug! Maybe he will just have to go to Idaho!

Thanks to Dr. Thomas for everything! You will be greatly missed in CA!




6 comments:

Rick and Kori said...

Aw I loved reading about your piano teacher and your experience with piano! I think it is so cool that you run a piano business! You look so beautiful in these pictures too :)

Liz Smith said...

that's so cool. i always wish i had learned to play piano. it's such a great skill and you play beautifully. you look SO gorgeous in that picture by the way!!!!!

Jennie said...

Add to the other comments, Wow Ash you really look good. At first I thought that it had to be a flashback picture from high school when you took those lessons :) All that running is paying off.

Chelsea said...

I looked at that link and heard you playing! You are so incredible and talented in so many ways. I remember you freshman/sophomore year debating between music and math. I think that no matter what you had decided, you still have that incredible skill! so beautiful. And you look amazing!

Kathy said...

Your tribute is wonderful Ashley. I have so many memories of the trips to Turlock every week. It was such a special experience to get to be in ou your lessons and hear your progress during those precious years. Dad and I will never forget those early morning practice sessions before seminary. It was a fabulous way to wake up! It was so wonderful to hear you play again. Yes, we have definitely been blessed by knowing Steve Thomas, haven't we?

The Nielsons said...

Ashley, you are amazing... I wish I could sit and watch you play for hours. So much talent.. I miss you and hope you are doing well.