Dear Reader –
These days, it’s all about prep for Theme Night #30 and the new teaching term. More about the former below, but firstly the latter (thanks Dad for the help with the posters)!
**All hyperlinks in bold.
The Big Thing
In August 2018, I wrote this short blog about one of my star students.
Annette Hayden had been coming to me for lessons for a year at that stage and four years later she still is. Her drive to keep learning and improving is inspirational. And so last January when I was looking for someone to help me with the increased demand for lessons, Annette was the obvious choice.
And she has been just brilliant as a teacher. Her infectious personality and innate musicality are a winning combination and the students love her.
I got this testimonial recently from Sharon and Daithi (whose daughters come to lessons).
“Both girls love going to their piano lessons, it’s one of their favourite things to do! They are always so enthusiastic and excited on their way out to them and always come out buzzing. They love Annette, absolutely love Annette.
They’ve covered so much in such a short space of time and they always come home with something new learned. There’s definitely a passion in them with these lessons compared to other after school activities. Kieran and Annette are amazing with them and have a very personal approach to their teaching. The girls are made to feel very special with the attention they receive.
They’ve definitely gained a strong appreciation for playing the piano. The best thing is that they practise without being asked. We would highly recommend these classes to anyone considering sending their child to music lessons, and the girls would too!”
Annette will be teaching next term on a Monday, Thursday and Friday in Strandhill and there is still some availability. Slots also available in Rathcormac. Email kieran@kieranquinn.ie for details.
Where else but Sligo?
Last week I was out in Niamh Crowley’s house talking musicals (like we do most days at the moment) and she mentioned that the Hawk’s Well have a brand new website. I had a look later (and loved it by the way), but while I was there I checked how the tickets for Theme Night #30 were selling.
And I was amazed. The Friday and Saturday shows are completely sold out, and I’m not exaggerating when I say there are only a handful of tickets left for Thursday.
So I firstly wanted to thank you - beloved letter readers - for this incredible support, and secondly thought it would only be fair to give those of you who don’t yet have tickets fair warning of the situation. I’d imagine by the time next week’s letter comes out the shows will be sold out.
So - you can find the last few tickets here - and make sure to check out the entire website while you’re online.
What’s New?
BACK IN THE STRAND: My first gig in The Strand for a while - really looking forward to a blast this Friday 19th with Seamie O’Dowd and Gerry Grennan.
MAKE IT STICK: The best book on teaching/learning I have read in a while. Order it from your local bookshop.
RORY’S STORIES: Rory O’Connor, aka Rory’s Stories is a comedian from Co. Meath. He is embarking on a nationwide tour soon and it was lovely to be asked to be his special guest here in Sligo on Sept 17. According to the man himself he hopes for an honest conversation and possibly a tune or two. Tickets available here.
Finally…
I asked Mum and Dad last night if there was anything they would like to hear in the upcoming musicals Theme Night. Hadn’t heard this one for a while - but it has been in my head ever since!
Till next time - Kieran.
