Here's my ultimate but simple list for choosing performance repertoire. It's a list I've gathered from listening to many recitals and eisteddfods and has been helpful for me when discussing repertoire with students. I'll keep adjusting this and would love to hear any of your suggestions too.

CHOOSE:
- something that is engaging
- something that you like
- something that has artistic merit
- something that is revealing
- something that is rhythmically fun
- something that is a little risky but still within your capability
- something that is written specifically for piano/keyboard

STAY AWAY FROM:
- new arrangements or compositions that lack musicality
- something that is too hard for your ability
- something that is too safe
- something that is too boring
- something that you hate

THINK CAREFULLY WHEN CHOOSING:
- pieces that are well-known
- reductions
- pieces that lack a melody
- pieces that are too long or too short
- pieces with offensive titles or meanings

CHECK:
- that you understand the style of the piece and can play it in that style
- that you are on top of all the technical demands of the piece
- that you have all copyright permissions needed to perform the piece
- that the piece suits the occasion and the audience

Homebush West Public School had their twilight concert last night. I was proud of how well all my piano students played. Most of them only started learning this year, so it was their first performance. Congrats to all students. Special mention to Michael who received the gold certificate for his musical development over the year and for his contribution to the school as a member of the chamber ensemble.

I didn't want to lose the news that I had posted on my old site (a google site), so here it is....

Student Compositions
posted Apr 29, 2012 5:56 PM by Rachel Hocking
I've asked students to bring in their own compositions or musical ramblings, so that I can notate their pieces. There are already some students who regularly do this, but it's been great seeing other students add theirs to the collection. The collection is growing - I wonder what we'll do with these lovely little piano pieces? Hmmm, already thinking....

Welcome new students
posted Feb 28, 2012 9:11 PM by Rachel Hocking
I've begun teaching piano at Homebush West Public School, and have enjoyed meeting with new piano students for the last 2 weeks. I'll still be teaching at my home studio Monday to Friday.

Welcome Back!
posted Feb 3, 2012 5:07 PM by Rachel Hocking
Lessons begin February 6th, and I'm looking forward to catching up with you all! Don't forget to find 'Rachel Hocking Music Tuition' and 'like' me to receive regular updates plus other great music stuff.

Greetings for the Season!
posted Dec 20, 2011 10:51 AM by Rachel Hocking
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Lessons begin again 6th February, so I'll see you then!

Final concert of the year
posted Dec 13, 2011 1:49 AM by Rachel Hocking
This Sunday, students will be playing at Southhaven Hostel, Queensbury Road, Padstow Heights, at 2.30 pm. Come along in some Christmas clothes ready to entertain the oldies with some fine music. Download the recital poster below.
Attachments:  musicrecital18dec.pdf

2011 Annual Concert Photos
posted Nov 22, 2011 4:57 PM by Rachel Hocking
Thanks to our parents, we have some lovely photos from the recent concerts - please click here to view more or contact me.

Concert Program
posted Nov 17, 2011 4:21 AM by Rachel Hocking
Click on the attachment below to download the concert program for Saturday 19th November...it's going to be an extravaganza!
Attachments:  program3pma.pdf

Concert extravaganza
posted Nov 15, 2011 6:48 PM by Rachel Hocking
This Saturday, 19th November, is our huge combined studio annual recital. We have around 85 fantastic music items to be performed over three concerts. Please check with Rachel for more details. If you would like to come and watch, the concert will be 1 Myall St Oatley, at 3pm, 4.45pm and 6.45pm. Looking forward to a brilliant musical afternoon.

Exam date announced
posted Nov 15, 2011 6:45 PM by Rachel Hocking
Our exams will be held at Rachel's Illawong studio on 2nd December 2011. Please check with Rachel for your time.

Congratulations
posted Nov 15, 2011 6:45 PM by Rachel Hocking
Congratulations to all Music Craft and Musicianship students who passed recent AMEB exams with fantastic marks.