Co-Curricular #1: Joseph Wytko Masterclass

On September 21st, 2016 I attend a concert by the group Ascencdo3 a

group of a father/daughter saxophone duo and a pianist. They performed a
nice selection of literature and as a benefit as an educator I was able to see
music performed at a professional level, inspiring me in my own efforts and
to encourage my students effort. However, the most beneficial part of the
evening was the masterclass I participated in after the concert.
I decided to play the Piazolla Tango Etude No. 3 which was is part of
the program for my recital. I played the piece in front of the studio and the
clinicians and the saxophone studio. Overall, I felt happy with my
performance especially with the level I was playing the music since my
recital was over a month away.
After I was done playing Mr. Wytko came and gave me feedback. He is
the professor emeritus of saxophone at Arizona State University, which made
me quite excited to learn from such a master teacher and performer. I
received some advanced help on my piece which was relieving due to the
fact that notes and rhythms or really any fundamental technique was not a
focal point. Instead, I received insight on expression and performance which
to me was an area that I have been struggling. After a short time of playing
and receiving instruction I left with a large amount of material to discern and
apply.
As an educator I think attending professional level performances and
receiving direct feedback from the performers about my own artistry is
crucial. I am a firm believer that I must be a fine musician in order to be an
outstanding music teacher. This means that I have to be constantly be
pushing myself for a high level of mastery, but not limited to, my instrument.
Unless, I seek out opportunities to grow and push myself to break barriers on
my musicianship I will never profound in the profession. This is not a case for
pride or arrogance in the profession but rather a case for enabling myself for
servitude to my students for the best experience possible.
The second part aside from learning myself was the reminder to listen
to music. When teaching or in academia the expression and charm of music
can be forgotten. However, with this performance I was reminded of the level
of excellence music can be done and what a joy it is to be able to listen to
music, especially when you understand it. I must be able to continue to love
and learn about music just like I need to continue to love and learn about
teaching.
After this experience I was inspired to educate myself in general. This
is not limited to academic experiences in music or education but life
experience that I can draw inspiration from. This will not only make me a

better musician but also a better teacher enabling to fully serve anybody and
everybody I encounter.