#Olympian
The 2024 Summer Olympic Games are about to begin in Paris! We are inspired by the excitement of the games, so our theme at PMA this summer is #Olympian. The term "Olympian" typically refers to an athlete who competes in the Olympic Games, characterized by exceptional skill, training, and often peak physical condition.
In the musical field, musical #Olympians would be musicians who have reached the pinnacle of their craft through exceptional skill, dedication, and performance. Here are just a few examples:
Classical Music
1. Yo-Yo Ma (Cellist)
- Renowned for his technical mastery and expressive performances, Yo-Yo Ma is considered one of the greatest cellists of all time, much like an Olympic gold medalist in their sport.
2. Lang Lang (Pianist)
- Known for his virtuosity and dynamic playing, Lang Lang has performed with top orchestras worldwide, representing the highest level of achievement in classical piano.
Opera
3. Renée Fleming (Soprano)
- With a career spanning over three decades, Renée Fleming is celebrated for her beautiful voice and emotive performances, akin to an Olympian's peak physical and mental condition.
4. Plácido Domingo (Tenor)
- As one of the "Three Tenors," Domingo has achieved legendary status in the opera world, similar to an Olympic champion's iconic status.
Pop/Rock
5. Beyoncé (Singer/Dancer/Performer)
- Known for her powerful voice, stage presence, and groundbreaking performances, Beyoncé exemplifies the dedication and excellence seen in Olympic champions.
Conducting
6. Gustavo Dudamel (Conductor)
- As the music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Dudamel’s dynamic conducting style and leadership have earned him global acclaim, similar to a coach leading an Olympic team to victory.
These musicians represent the highest levels of achievement, dedication, and influence in their respective fields, making them the musical equivalents of Olympic athletes.
Wouldn’t it be fun to imagine yourself as a musical #Olympian?? Could you nurture the qualities of an #Olympian in yourself?
Dedication: #Olympians dedicate countless hours to training and study in order to excel. How many hours do you spend in lessons and practicing? Is there time for more?
Training Regimen: #Olympians undergo rigorous physical training. Including plentiful study in scales, arpeggios, chords/double stops, etudes, tonalization, and review in your daily practice will create a rigorous practice routine!
Peak Performance: #Olympians compete on a regular basis and thus “practice” performing. How often do you perform? Could you find more opportunities to perform? A formal recital doesn’t have to be the only way! Busking is popular during good weather. How about a pop up concert in a library or market? Video recording can also be a performance opportunity.
Recognition: A favorite time of the games is the award ceremony. It feels great to earn a medal or trophy! At PMA, we acknowledge students when they complete a Suzuki book graduation with a framed certificate and award graduating High School Seniors with an honor chord to wear at their graduation ceremony. Competitions are plentiful in Pittsburgh and beyond!
Could we create our own PMA Olympic Games??? We are! Sign up here for The Suzuki Olympics. Here are some possible events:
“Track and Field”
100m Sprint
Who will play a selected piece at the quickest tempo and maintain accuracy?
Marathon
Who will play 26 review songs?
“Swimming”
Freestyle Relay
Which team can pass the phrases of a piece of music seamlessly from one to another?
“Archery”
Who will play a piece of music with the most accuracy?
See you at the games for these and many more!