Impressions on the Summer Piano Institute | Εντυπώσεις από το Θερινό Ινστιτούτο Πιάνου
Το θερινό Ινστιτούτο Πιάνου είναι μια πρωτόγνωρη εμπειρία.
Σας ευχαριστώ πολύ όλους για την υπέροχη φιλοξενία, τη θέρμη και τη ζεστασιά.
Υπέροχο team, υπέροχοι καθηγητές υπέροχοι μαθητές! Μια υπέροχη παρέα από πιανίστες σ’ έναν πανέμορφο τόπο.
Λυπάμαι πραγματικά που αναχωρώ νωρίτερα.
Καλή συνέχεια και καλή «πιανιστική» αντάμωση
Φρόσω Κτιστάκη
___
Πραγματικά το Θερινό Ινστιτούτο Πιάνου είναι μια εμπειρία που δεν θα την ξεχάσω ποτέ. Ελπίζω να συνεχιστεί. Το καλό είναι ότι ξεκινάς την μέρα σου με μουσική που σου δίνει χαρά. Ήταν ένα όμορφο μουσικό τριήμερο που δυστυχώς δεν συνεχίζεται. Υπέροχοι καθηγητές που μου έδωσαν σημαντικά πράγματα που πρέπει να προσέχω.
Σας ευχαριστώ όλους. Ελπίζω να σας ξαναδώ
Ανέζα Θωμά
___
Das Sommer Klavier Institut war eine wundervalle Erfahrung und ich bin wirklich froh hergekommen zu sein.
Ich habe viele neue Dinge gelernt. Vielen Dank an die Profs und Lehrer.
Die Konzerte der Profs, die “Open Masterclass” und das Konzert der Studenten waren super.
Vielen Dank an alle fur diese folle Woche.
Ira Schneider
___
When I came here I learned many things about the different schools of piano training and I really opened my mind to new ways to view
Benjamin Joseph Mateyka
___
Thank you for the hospitality, inspiration, and friendship. It was one of the most memorable weeks of my life and i will recommend it to all of my friends.
A.M.
___
Despite my best efforts I learnt quite a lot about myself as a musician here in Corfu!
Thank you for this once in a lifetime experience.
Sincerely,
Todd Moellenberg
___
What a pleasure! And unfortunately all too rare: a diverse group of pianists-harmonious! Supportive and sharing, what a wonderful atmosphere. Lots of great music, terrific young musicians, and beautiful surroundings - a delight.
Aleck Karris.
___
Η Εύα η Πανάγου, Η Μαρία η Βέγκου, η Άννα Μαρία Γκούνη και η Εβίτα η Μανιατοπούλου στέλνουν νοητά την αγάπη τους.
xoxo
___
I hope this Summer Piano institute keeps happening with the same success! Great experience with new people every year with one common thing at heart: Music!
Nikos
___
Thank you for all the great experience, hope I ‘ll see you all next year!
Sandy, Eva Ts M
___
I feel extremely lucky to be a part of this great team! I am looking forward to the next Piano Plus!
<3 Anna
___
#PianoPlus_ΕλαΝαΦας
Another great week, with new people and lots of fun.
I wanted more….!
Eleni – Persefoni
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The experience in Greece
Isara Masunari
I have leant many things and gained lots of new ideas, which helped me increase the knowledge about music, by participating the 3rd piano plus festival at Ionian University in Corfu Island and by performing in concert in Athens, Greece. First of all, I had a chance to have lessons with two wonderful professors, Prof.Vassiliadis and Prof.DImopoulos. From the lessons I took and I observed, Prof.Vassiliadis have been taught us more spiritual things rather than technical things. He lectured us the reason why we play the piano. Although, it is difficult to find the answer for this but in my opinion, this is a fundamental thing that we have to know in order to play a musical instrument. Playing the piano allows us to express the feeling from our bottom of the heart and makes us feel far from daily issues. Furthermore, he told that it is also an essential thing for our life like eating, drinking or sleeping. It provides us great satisfaction and develops a passion and an interest in life. This lecture fascinated me a lot and made me feel I want to play the piano. However, when I learned Beethoven sonata with Prof.Vassiliadis, he taught me the importance of taking a pause. A pause enables a pianist to change the atmosphere and feeling of a place. There were many subito piano marks in a piece I played so he recommended me to take a brief pause before entering the next part. Then this created interests in a piece and prevented tediousness. By the way I had a lecture of Brahms rhapsody with Prof.Dimopoulos and he taught me the way of pedaling. He told me not to count the beats or pedaling, but pedal a bit slower and feel lazy about it. It was extremely difficult for me to adjust the pedaling during the lessons but when I practiced and get used to it, the piece started to sound more attractive. Also, he told me that forte is not just playing the keys by giving the weight or creating loud sounds but sometimes, we have to play clearly without being that much energetic. The sound might become dull and thick if we are holding pedal during crescendo so he recommended me to play clearly but deeply in the climax of the crescendo. This was something I have interested and concerned the most.
Moreover, in the master class before the student concert in Corfu Island, Prof.Vassiliadis told that we have to accept and respect each other in order to create a successful concert. Good music cannot be created in a concert if the performers compete or battle against each other. However, if we acknowledge each other’s music, great performances will be created so we followed the teaching and we all strived as one in the student concert and the concert in Athens. I really enjoyed playing in both concerts and I think they both succeed. Also, it was a great opportunity to perform in front of the Thai ambassador and madam ambassador. The supports from the ambassador enabled us to study hard in Greece and to perform in a concert. Although, not just the lectures from the professors and experiences from the concerts, but it was stimulating and exciting meeting young pianists from other regions. Because they are living in different places and speaking different languages, the tones and sound of the piano were new and inspirational for me. I was really glad to meet them and hear them playing the piano. The experiences in those 10 days were unforgettable and memorable and I am sure that they changed the way of thinking about music and piano.
___
Greece Trip
Nashlynn TangKawattana (Lynn)
On the 22nd – 28th of June 2015, I had a chance to participate in he 3rd Summer Piano institute in Corfu, Greece. I took 3 private lessons, took part in the masterclasses, and participated in the student concert. I’ve gained may experiences. I’ve learned new ways of practicing piano, such as how to produce different sounds. Apart from my private teacher Dr.Eri Nakagawa, I had a chance to study with other teachers such as Prof. Lambis Vassiliadis and Mr.Dimitris Dimopoulos. So I’ve learned different styles of playing and teaching that I can use it in my music. Other than music, I’ve learned Greek Cultures, I saw different styles of building, how to Greek people live, what do they eat, it’s very new thing for me. I also made new friends, they’re Greek, French, Irish, and Italian, talking with them is a good way to practice language. This camp gave me a lot of experiences.
After the camp ended, I had a chance to play in concert in Athens with other Thai students. So I ha visited both Corfu and Athens. Before the concert I went to Athens’ recommend places like Acropolis and the museum of Acropolis. I learned some ancient Greek history. Then in the concert o played 3 pieces with 1 king’s composition names “Falling Rain”. Although there were not so many people in the concert, but I thing they were having fun watching us. Especially the encore piece, we played a 8-hands piano piece called “Galop Marche”. I saw kids laughing, and many people told us that they like it. It’s my first time playing in a concert outside Thailand, so I’m glad it turned out good.
___
Vovarat Wattanasombat
My trip to the in the 3rd Summer Piano Plus Festival in Corfu gave me opportunities to meet new people and perform. I had gained a lot of experience from this festival. Professors from the institute that held the festival are brilliant pianists. The have given me a new way of playing the piano. Dimitra, the organizer of this program, also arrange some trip for us during our stay in Corfu. During the festival, every professor gave piano recital. All the recitals were interesting and great. Also, at the end of the festival, we had a change to perform as part of the student concert too. The ambassador and his wife also visited us for the concert of the festival in Corfu.
After the festival in Corfu, the ambassador invited us to play a concert and also invited us to stay in his place in Athens before we go back home. We had a lot of fun during the concert in Athens. We had a chance to perform pieces by our king, H.M.K. Bhumibol Adulyadej. We played Galop Marche which is a work for four pianists as an encore piece. The audience enjoyed our concert there and we were really happy to play for them.
All of this couldn’t have happened without the kind support of the ambassador, the College of music, Mahidol University and professor Eri Nakagawa. We really appreciate all the support for the trip to Greece.
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Greece Trip
Watcharit Kerdchuen (jean)
The 3rd Summer Piano institute in Corfu, Greece on June 22-28, 2015 was my first time to study piano aboard and It gave me a lot of new ideas, inspiration and the experience that couldn’t find in Thailand. I observed a lot of piano lessons and learned o a lot from Prof. Lambis Vassiliadis, one of the most distinguished Greek pianist, and Prof. Dimitris Dimopoulos, the great pianist and conductor and also the great teacher from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Besides the piano subject, Prof. Vassiliadis taught many thing as he had studied philosophy before. He talked a lot about the way how to think and the idea of playing the music and he also told his experience how he found the idea and these inspired me a lot. I also had a change to watch his live performance of Liszt transcription on Beethoven’s symphony no.7 which was a very rare performance and it would be only one time in my life watching very difficult transcription performing live.
Another teacher, Prof. Dimitris DImopoulos he taught a lot of things but different topic from Prof. Vassiliadis. He taught many things mostly about how to practice and a lot of tips how to prepare for the performance. He suggested practicing many ways as possible to make the music fresh. For instance, play the beautiful legato melody line on the keyboard with a pencil eraser.
Besides learning from the teacher, I also learned a lot from international friends. I got Greek, Irish, Italian, French, and Chinese friends from this summer institute. We talked and exchange a lot of ideas and culture. We also had a good time together sharing the music at the concert.
After the summer institute in Corfu, we went to Athens to perform the unique concert. Before the concert we had a chance to sightseeing the city. We went to The Acropolis which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and we also went to Acropolis museum to see archaeological site and there was a lot of artifacts from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. After finished sightseeing, we had a change to perform the concert to the audiences including members of diplomatic corps in Athens, the ambassadors of ASEAN countries, as well as greek music school faculties and students at Attiko conservatory. The program included Thai composition as well. The concert was very successful as we received a big round of applause from the audiences.
So, this trip is one of the best experiences that I ever had. I hope I would have a change to participate to study aboard again.
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Dear Andreas Ευχαριστώ!! For us just thank you is not enough. We have a wonderful time here. It is one of the most memorable moment in our life. You are so kind to us since we hadn’t got the visa until today. You always took a good care of us and brought us to many beautiful places. You are very patient even when we were always late for almost very appointment (we are really sorry). You introduced us to all the tasty Greek cuisine which we will definitely miss it when we go back to Thailand. You are the one who make us realize that how nice and warm Greek people are. All these great experience would never have happened if we don’t have your hard working and dedication. Every time we hear the word “Greece”, nice people, beautiful town and deep blue sea would be the first thought that come to our mind. Hope to see you in Thailand, Prof. Andreas.Ελπίζουμε να σας δούμε σύντομα.
P.s. You know.. you look more handsome without beard.
03-07-13 From Yooh (Nattanicha Mahasuwannachai), Yang (Rudsada Saelim),Yuwen(Thanasita),Maprang(Rasikamon Siyapong), JomJam (Chirapa).
This week has truly been an inspiration. The lessons, concerts and new friends have forever changed my art and my life. Zαχαρίας.
Very excited about the lessons, recitals and all of the participants. It was a really nice opportunity! Thank you very much. Ρηγανάτου
Ιt was a great week! I ve made great friends, I ve seen wonderful concerts and I ve had lessons with great teachers and people. I ve loved everything about this week. Ioanna N.
This is the greatest time I ever had. Come to Europe is always my dream. And this camp is wonderful!!I love Greece J Rudsada S.
It is the first time for me in Europe & abroad. I really have a great time here! It is very great country, nice people and very nice weather. It will be a very, very VERY GOOD memory for me.<Sorry for my English :P> “I LOVE YOU,GREECE” Nattanicha M. (Yoon)
It is my first time in Europe. I was very excited to be in the camp. When I arrived here, I was fascinated by the style of building and the sea. It is very amazing! I had great time here. In addition, all the teachers and their teaching are very inspiring me. This music camp is very wonderful. I really love it. Thanasita Fu (Yuwen).
“Corfu, Greece” will be my favourite memory, place, music, people and everything. It was a great week here. I ve met wonderful friends, super genius professor and very very gorgeous place that I ve never seen. I will keep this in my soul forever. Jomjam Chirapa.
Ummm…I don’t know what to write here but I think everyone has the same feelings in here..!Right now we re all having fun and singing greek favorite songs at “Rex” restaurant! woohoo…..Helen Persephone Stavrianou and Stefanos Katsaros
May the road rise to meet you may the wind be always of your back until we meet again…..Anna-Maria Gkouni
This is one of the best moment in my life!!!!Thank you so much for creating this camp. I do love every second of it J……I’m gonna miss you all!!!!!Rasikamon(Maprang)
THANK YOU VERY MUCH! At the beginning of 2013,I tried to set my goal of the year. “Open my mind & explore the world” has been one of my most prominent goals since then. Thanks so much for organizing the festival, which gave me an opportunity to travel around not only Greece, but also other part of Europe. I seriously think you guys can be tour guides if you were not a pianist. I had a good time in Corfu. This is an educational & inspiring experience. Love all the night concerts! Also, LOVE Greek food!!!Hope you all have a good time, make good music & be proud!
P.s THANKS Stefanos & Evita especially for doing my laundry! THANKS Virginia
Such a wonderful music festival! I ve learned a lot from master classes and impressive concerts!!I love the beautiful scenery in Corfu. And of course, lovely teachers and friends. Thank you! Mengdi Li
Thank you so much! I had such a wonderful time here! I Love the sea. I Love the persons. I Love everything in Corfu. J Xueli Liu
Great teachers. Great performances. Great friends. Great week and of course great experience and much inspiration. Music for life. Dimitris
Inspiration to the fullest! Great cooperation! Looking forward to the next Piano Plus Summer Institute!! Nikos L.
It was really great time! I make a wonderful moment at here. Everything was good!! Thank you for giving a good chance to me. I never forget it. I am gonna miss you and all things.
Amazing experience, teachers, lessons!!! Ohh my God… so many information about music!!! Very friendly, clever colleagues! J Everything was AMAZING!!!
Nα ‘σαι καλά, Ανδρέα. Καλή επιτυχία σε ότι κάνεις! Χρυσόστομος Φιλιππάκος 29/6/13
Μοναδική εμπειρία! Let’s do this again! Μαρίκα
Piano Plus Festival Rulezzzz!!! Don’t stop my love! Ορεε, μην ξεχάσεις τσι σακούλιες με τσι φράουλες. Ορε θα λακίσει ο κοντός και δεν θα ‘ναι καλιή. Να ‘σαι καλιά να κάνεις ινστιτούτια με τσι κοπελιές και τσ’ αγόρους. Δημητρέισον
4th Summer Piano Institute you did good. You, guys, did very good. Sarah
Well said everyone..! Great memories. It feels like home. Spread the love. Eleni – Persefoni Stavrianou
I had such a beautiful time, wonderful teachers, who really love music, an warmhearted people in Corfu. I really really thank everyone who were in this festival. I hope to come here again! Thank you very much J Yukari
A very good introduction to Europe. Very thankful for the opportunity to network with other musicians of multiple generations! Scott Hansen
The warmest, most welcoming festival I have attended. Many many thanks to Dimitra and Andreas for the planning and excursions. Everyone has been great. I sincerely hope to come again and to see many of you again. All the best wishes to our futures!
Always keep the faith! Xiuwei
Ευχαριστώ τους καθηγητές, τον Ανδρέα και τη Δήμητρα και όλους τους συμμετέχοντες και συμφοιτητές για τις υπέροχες εμπειρίες που είχαμε μαζί αυτές τις μέρες. Ειδικά για την ελληνική ομάδα, την τάξη μας και τον δάσκαλό μας, νιώθω πολύ τυχερή που είμαι μέλος αυτής της οικογένειας και εύχομαι ωα συνεχίσουμε να ζούμε μαζί μοναδικές μουσικές και μη στιγμές! Άννα
The music provides much inspiration. I especially love the passionate masterclasses. Lambis is so inspiring to learn from. Ευχαριστώ πάρα πολύ. Leah Andriopoulos
Thank you for the opportunity to study here in Corfu! It is so beautiful and sharing music with you all is such a treat. Memories for a lifetime. Natalie Evans
Love Corfu Island. Xin ran Wang (Sarah)
What a beautiful place to learn and make music. Thanks for the warm welcome to Corfu! Emily Morin & Mike Minotti
It only took me three years but I made it! I can’t thank you both enough for the lessons and the inspiration. I will definitely use everything you taught me and will never forget the good memories. With love, Justin Hoffman
Στον Ανδρέα μας, στη Δήμητρα, στο κ. Βασειλιάδη, σε όλους όσους δούλεψαν για αυτό το σεμινάριο, χίλια ευχαριστώ για μια μοναδική εμπειρία και για μένα και για τον Παύλο. Μακάρι να γίνει θεσμός και να σας βλέπουμε κάθε χρόνο. Να είστε όλοι σας όπως σας γνωρίσαμε, γεμάτοι ενέργεια και σοφία. Χριστίνα Κοκκινά
Βρίσκω ότι το σεμινάριο ήταν πολύ καλή ιδέα. Τα μαθήματα ήταν χαλαρά. Με τόσα κόλπα δεν νομίζω ότι θα κάνω πολλά λάθη. Είναι στα αλήθεια τέλειο! Παύλος
Thank you for your hospitality and the inspiration to teach at you wonderful festival! I have enjoyed every moment, and been owed by the beauty all around us. What a wonderful musical community you have here! I will carry many lovely memories of Corfu and the Piano Plus Festival back with me to Indianapolis. Kate Boyd
So many wonderful memories of my many visits to Corfu. I consider it my second home. Many thanks to the Piano Plus team, Andreas, Dimitra and Lambis for all the fantastic experiences, musical and culinary too! I hold you all in my heart.
Piano Plus έλα για να φας! Άλλη μια υπέροχη εβδομάδα με ρίσκο, πάθος και αμορ! Ραντεβού το επόμενο καλοκαίρι με καινούριες ανατρεπτικές εμπειρίες! Spread the love!
Και του χρόνου τελικό γεύμα, παρακαλώ πολύ, στο La famiglia…(ή τουλάχιστον στο Rex, αλλά με γλυκό για τέλος. Όχι φρούτο να ουμ…)
Ακόμα μια ωραία εμπειρία για μένα και το Piano Plus (έτσι ο παλιός είναι αλλιώς!), αλλά προτείνω στον πρόεδρο να επαναληφθεί όταν δε θα έχει τόση ζέστη γιατί δεν μπορούμε να συγκεντρωθούμε στα μαθήματα και το μυαλό μας έχει πάει παραλία!! Lavasoff
Παρ’ όλα αυτά αγαπημένε μας Ανδρέα, εκτιμούμε όλοι μας πάρα πολύ όλη τη διοργάνωση και αυτή την υπέροχη πρωτοβουλία, για την οποία τρέχεις και κοπιάζεις όλη τη χρονιά. Είσαι ο καλύτερος με ή χωρίς μουστάκι. Εβίτα
Σας ευχαριστώ πολύ όλους για την υπέροχη φιλοξενία, τη θέρμη και τη ζεστασιά.
Υπέροχο team, υπέροχοι καθηγητές υπέροχοι μαθητές! Μια υπέροχη παρέα από πιανίστες σ’ έναν πανέμορφο τόπο.
Λυπάμαι πραγματικά που αναχωρώ νωρίτερα.
Καλή συνέχεια και καλή «πιανιστική» αντάμωση
Φρόσω Κτιστάκη
___
Πραγματικά το Θερινό Ινστιτούτο Πιάνου είναι μια εμπειρία που δεν θα την ξεχάσω ποτέ. Ελπίζω να συνεχιστεί. Το καλό είναι ότι ξεκινάς την μέρα σου με μουσική που σου δίνει χαρά. Ήταν ένα όμορφο μουσικό τριήμερο που δυστυχώς δεν συνεχίζεται. Υπέροχοι καθηγητές που μου έδωσαν σημαντικά πράγματα που πρέπει να προσέχω.
Σας ευχαριστώ όλους. Ελπίζω να σας ξαναδώ
Ανέζα Θωμά
___
Das Sommer Klavier Institut war eine wundervalle Erfahrung und ich bin wirklich froh hergekommen zu sein.
Ich habe viele neue Dinge gelernt. Vielen Dank an die Profs und Lehrer.
Die Konzerte der Profs, die “Open Masterclass” und das Konzert der Studenten waren super.
Vielen Dank an alle fur diese folle Woche.
Ira Schneider
___
When I came here I learned many things about the different schools of piano training and I really opened my mind to new ways to view
Benjamin Joseph Mateyka
___
Thank you for the hospitality, inspiration, and friendship. It was one of the most memorable weeks of my life and i will recommend it to all of my friends.
A.M.
___
Despite my best efforts I learnt quite a lot about myself as a musician here in Corfu!
Thank you for this once in a lifetime experience.
Sincerely,
Todd Moellenberg
___
What a pleasure! And unfortunately all too rare: a diverse group of pianists-harmonious! Supportive and sharing, what a wonderful atmosphere. Lots of great music, terrific young musicians, and beautiful surroundings - a delight.
Aleck Karris.
___
Η Εύα η Πανάγου, Η Μαρία η Βέγκου, η Άννα Μαρία Γκούνη και η Εβίτα η Μανιατοπούλου στέλνουν νοητά την αγάπη τους.
xoxo
___
I hope this Summer Piano institute keeps happening with the same success! Great experience with new people every year with one common thing at heart: Music!
Nikos
___
Thank you for all the great experience, hope I ‘ll see you all next year!
Sandy, Eva Ts M
___
I feel extremely lucky to be a part of this great team! I am looking forward to the next Piano Plus!
<3 Anna
___
#PianoPlus_ΕλαΝαΦας
Another great week, with new people and lots of fun.
I wanted more….!
Eleni – Persefoni
___
The experience in Greece
Isara Masunari
I have leant many things and gained lots of new ideas, which helped me increase the knowledge about music, by participating the 3rd piano plus festival at Ionian University in Corfu Island and by performing in concert in Athens, Greece. First of all, I had a chance to have lessons with two wonderful professors, Prof.Vassiliadis and Prof.DImopoulos. From the lessons I took and I observed, Prof.Vassiliadis have been taught us more spiritual things rather than technical things. He lectured us the reason why we play the piano. Although, it is difficult to find the answer for this but in my opinion, this is a fundamental thing that we have to know in order to play a musical instrument. Playing the piano allows us to express the feeling from our bottom of the heart and makes us feel far from daily issues. Furthermore, he told that it is also an essential thing for our life like eating, drinking or sleeping. It provides us great satisfaction and develops a passion and an interest in life. This lecture fascinated me a lot and made me feel I want to play the piano. However, when I learned Beethoven sonata with Prof.Vassiliadis, he taught me the importance of taking a pause. A pause enables a pianist to change the atmosphere and feeling of a place. There were many subito piano marks in a piece I played so he recommended me to take a brief pause before entering the next part. Then this created interests in a piece and prevented tediousness. By the way I had a lecture of Brahms rhapsody with Prof.Dimopoulos and he taught me the way of pedaling. He told me not to count the beats or pedaling, but pedal a bit slower and feel lazy about it. It was extremely difficult for me to adjust the pedaling during the lessons but when I practiced and get used to it, the piece started to sound more attractive. Also, he told me that forte is not just playing the keys by giving the weight or creating loud sounds but sometimes, we have to play clearly without being that much energetic. The sound might become dull and thick if we are holding pedal during crescendo so he recommended me to play clearly but deeply in the climax of the crescendo. This was something I have interested and concerned the most.
Moreover, in the master class before the student concert in Corfu Island, Prof.Vassiliadis told that we have to accept and respect each other in order to create a successful concert. Good music cannot be created in a concert if the performers compete or battle against each other. However, if we acknowledge each other’s music, great performances will be created so we followed the teaching and we all strived as one in the student concert and the concert in Athens. I really enjoyed playing in both concerts and I think they both succeed. Also, it was a great opportunity to perform in front of the Thai ambassador and madam ambassador. The supports from the ambassador enabled us to study hard in Greece and to perform in a concert. Although, not just the lectures from the professors and experiences from the concerts, but it was stimulating and exciting meeting young pianists from other regions. Because they are living in different places and speaking different languages, the tones and sound of the piano were new and inspirational for me. I was really glad to meet them and hear them playing the piano. The experiences in those 10 days were unforgettable and memorable and I am sure that they changed the way of thinking about music and piano.
___
Greece Trip
Nashlynn TangKawattana (Lynn)
On the 22nd – 28th of June 2015, I had a chance to participate in he 3rd Summer Piano institute in Corfu, Greece. I took 3 private lessons, took part in the masterclasses, and participated in the student concert. I’ve gained may experiences. I’ve learned new ways of practicing piano, such as how to produce different sounds. Apart from my private teacher Dr.Eri Nakagawa, I had a chance to study with other teachers such as Prof. Lambis Vassiliadis and Mr.Dimitris Dimopoulos. So I’ve learned different styles of playing and teaching that I can use it in my music. Other than music, I’ve learned Greek Cultures, I saw different styles of building, how to Greek people live, what do they eat, it’s very new thing for me. I also made new friends, they’re Greek, French, Irish, and Italian, talking with them is a good way to practice language. This camp gave me a lot of experiences.
After the camp ended, I had a chance to play in concert in Athens with other Thai students. So I ha visited both Corfu and Athens. Before the concert I went to Athens’ recommend places like Acropolis and the museum of Acropolis. I learned some ancient Greek history. Then in the concert o played 3 pieces with 1 king’s composition names “Falling Rain”. Although there were not so many people in the concert, but I thing they were having fun watching us. Especially the encore piece, we played a 8-hands piano piece called “Galop Marche”. I saw kids laughing, and many people told us that they like it. It’s my first time playing in a concert outside Thailand, so I’m glad it turned out good.
___
Vovarat Wattanasombat
My trip to the in the 3rd Summer Piano Plus Festival in Corfu gave me opportunities to meet new people and perform. I had gained a lot of experience from this festival. Professors from the institute that held the festival are brilliant pianists. The have given me a new way of playing the piano. Dimitra, the organizer of this program, also arrange some trip for us during our stay in Corfu. During the festival, every professor gave piano recital. All the recitals were interesting and great. Also, at the end of the festival, we had a change to perform as part of the student concert too. The ambassador and his wife also visited us for the concert of the festival in Corfu.
After the festival in Corfu, the ambassador invited us to play a concert and also invited us to stay in his place in Athens before we go back home. We had a lot of fun during the concert in Athens. We had a chance to perform pieces by our king, H.M.K. Bhumibol Adulyadej. We played Galop Marche which is a work for four pianists as an encore piece. The audience enjoyed our concert there and we were really happy to play for them.
All of this couldn’t have happened without the kind support of the ambassador, the College of music, Mahidol University and professor Eri Nakagawa. We really appreciate all the support for the trip to Greece.
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Greece Trip
Watcharit Kerdchuen (jean)
The 3rd Summer Piano institute in Corfu, Greece on June 22-28, 2015 was my first time to study piano aboard and It gave me a lot of new ideas, inspiration and the experience that couldn’t find in Thailand. I observed a lot of piano lessons and learned o a lot from Prof. Lambis Vassiliadis, one of the most distinguished Greek pianist, and Prof. Dimitris Dimopoulos, the great pianist and conductor and also the great teacher from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Besides the piano subject, Prof. Vassiliadis taught many thing as he had studied philosophy before. He talked a lot about the way how to think and the idea of playing the music and he also told his experience how he found the idea and these inspired me a lot. I also had a change to watch his live performance of Liszt transcription on Beethoven’s symphony no.7 which was a very rare performance and it would be only one time in my life watching very difficult transcription performing live.
Another teacher, Prof. Dimitris DImopoulos he taught a lot of things but different topic from Prof. Vassiliadis. He taught many things mostly about how to practice and a lot of tips how to prepare for the performance. He suggested practicing many ways as possible to make the music fresh. For instance, play the beautiful legato melody line on the keyboard with a pencil eraser.
Besides learning from the teacher, I also learned a lot from international friends. I got Greek, Irish, Italian, French, and Chinese friends from this summer institute. We talked and exchange a lot of ideas and culture. We also had a good time together sharing the music at the concert.
After the summer institute in Corfu, we went to Athens to perform the unique concert. Before the concert we had a chance to sightseeing the city. We went to The Acropolis which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and we also went to Acropolis museum to see archaeological site and there was a lot of artifacts from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. After finished sightseeing, we had a change to perform the concert to the audiences including members of diplomatic corps in Athens, the ambassadors of ASEAN countries, as well as greek music school faculties and students at Attiko conservatory. The program included Thai composition as well. The concert was very successful as we received a big round of applause from the audiences.
So, this trip is one of the best experiences that I ever had. I hope I would have a change to participate to study aboard again.
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Dear Andreas Ευχαριστώ!! For us just thank you is not enough. We have a wonderful time here. It is one of the most memorable moment in our life. You are so kind to us since we hadn’t got the visa until today. You always took a good care of us and brought us to many beautiful places. You are very patient even when we were always late for almost very appointment (we are really sorry). You introduced us to all the tasty Greek cuisine which we will definitely miss it when we go back to Thailand. You are the one who make us realize that how nice and warm Greek people are. All these great experience would never have happened if we don’t have your hard working and dedication. Every time we hear the word “Greece”, nice people, beautiful town and deep blue sea would be the first thought that come to our mind. Hope to see you in Thailand, Prof. Andreas.Ελπίζουμε να σας δούμε σύντομα.
P.s. You know.. you look more handsome without beard.
03-07-13 From Yooh (Nattanicha Mahasuwannachai), Yang (Rudsada Saelim),Yuwen(Thanasita),Maprang(Rasikamon Siyapong), JomJam (Chirapa).
This week has truly been an inspiration. The lessons, concerts and new friends have forever changed my art and my life. Zαχαρίας.
Very excited about the lessons, recitals and all of the participants. It was a really nice opportunity! Thank you very much. Ρηγανάτου
Ιt was a great week! I ve made great friends, I ve seen wonderful concerts and I ve had lessons with great teachers and people. I ve loved everything about this week. Ioanna N.
This is the greatest time I ever had. Come to Europe is always my dream. And this camp is wonderful!!I love Greece J Rudsada S.
It is the first time for me in Europe & abroad. I really have a great time here! It is very great country, nice people and very nice weather. It will be a very, very VERY GOOD memory for me.<Sorry for my English :P> “I LOVE YOU,GREECE” Nattanicha M. (Yoon)
It is my first time in Europe. I was very excited to be in the camp. When I arrived here, I was fascinated by the style of building and the sea. It is very amazing! I had great time here. In addition, all the teachers and their teaching are very inspiring me. This music camp is very wonderful. I really love it. Thanasita Fu (Yuwen).
“Corfu, Greece” will be my favourite memory, place, music, people and everything. It was a great week here. I ve met wonderful friends, super genius professor and very very gorgeous place that I ve never seen. I will keep this in my soul forever. Jomjam Chirapa.
Ummm…I don’t know what to write here but I think everyone has the same feelings in here..!Right now we re all having fun and singing greek favorite songs at “Rex” restaurant! woohoo…..Helen Persephone Stavrianou and Stefanos Katsaros
May the road rise to meet you may the wind be always of your back until we meet again…..Anna-Maria Gkouni
This is one of the best moment in my life!!!!Thank you so much for creating this camp. I do love every second of it J……I’m gonna miss you all!!!!!Rasikamon(Maprang)
THANK YOU VERY MUCH! At the beginning of 2013,I tried to set my goal of the year. “Open my mind & explore the world” has been one of my most prominent goals since then. Thanks so much for organizing the festival, which gave me an opportunity to travel around not only Greece, but also other part of Europe. I seriously think you guys can be tour guides if you were not a pianist. I had a good time in Corfu. This is an educational & inspiring experience. Love all the night concerts! Also, LOVE Greek food!!!Hope you all have a good time, make good music & be proud!
P.s THANKS Stefanos & Evita especially for doing my laundry! THANKS Virginia
Such a wonderful music festival! I ve learned a lot from master classes and impressive concerts!!I love the beautiful scenery in Corfu. And of course, lovely teachers and friends. Thank you! Mengdi Li
Thank you so much! I had such a wonderful time here! I Love the sea. I Love the persons. I Love everything in Corfu. J Xueli Liu
Great teachers. Great performances. Great friends. Great week and of course great experience and much inspiration. Music for life. Dimitris
Inspiration to the fullest! Great cooperation! Looking forward to the next Piano Plus Summer Institute!! Nikos L.
It was really great time! I make a wonderful moment at here. Everything was good!! Thank you for giving a good chance to me. I never forget it. I am gonna miss you and all things.
Amazing experience, teachers, lessons!!! Ohh my God… so many information about music!!! Very friendly, clever colleagues! J Everything was AMAZING!!!
Nα ‘σαι καλά, Ανδρέα. Καλή επιτυχία σε ότι κάνεις! Χρυσόστομος Φιλιππάκος 29/6/13
Μοναδική εμπειρία! Let’s do this again! Μαρίκα
Piano Plus Festival Rulezzzz!!! Don’t stop my love! Ορεε, μην ξεχάσεις τσι σακούλιες με τσι φράουλες. Ορε θα λακίσει ο κοντός και δεν θα ‘ναι καλιή. Να ‘σαι καλιά να κάνεις ινστιτούτια με τσι κοπελιές και τσ’ αγόρους. Δημητρέισον
4th Summer Piano Institute you did good. You, guys, did very good. Sarah
Well said everyone..! Great memories. It feels like home. Spread the love. Eleni – Persefoni Stavrianou
I had such a beautiful time, wonderful teachers, who really love music, an warmhearted people in Corfu. I really really thank everyone who were in this festival. I hope to come here again! Thank you very much J Yukari
A very good introduction to Europe. Very thankful for the opportunity to network with other musicians of multiple generations! Scott Hansen
The warmest, most welcoming festival I have attended. Many many thanks to Dimitra and Andreas for the planning and excursions. Everyone has been great. I sincerely hope to come again and to see many of you again. All the best wishes to our futures!
Always keep the faith! Xiuwei
Ευχαριστώ τους καθηγητές, τον Ανδρέα και τη Δήμητρα και όλους τους συμμετέχοντες και συμφοιτητές για τις υπέροχες εμπειρίες που είχαμε μαζί αυτές τις μέρες. Ειδικά για την ελληνική ομάδα, την τάξη μας και τον δάσκαλό μας, νιώθω πολύ τυχερή που είμαι μέλος αυτής της οικογένειας και εύχομαι ωα συνεχίσουμε να ζούμε μαζί μοναδικές μουσικές και μη στιγμές! Άννα
The music provides much inspiration. I especially love the passionate masterclasses. Lambis is so inspiring to learn from. Ευχαριστώ πάρα πολύ. Leah Andriopoulos
Thank you for the opportunity to study here in Corfu! It is so beautiful and sharing music with you all is such a treat. Memories for a lifetime. Natalie Evans
Love Corfu Island. Xin ran Wang (Sarah)
What a beautiful place to learn and make music. Thanks for the warm welcome to Corfu! Emily Morin & Mike Minotti
It only took me three years but I made it! I can’t thank you both enough for the lessons and the inspiration. I will definitely use everything you taught me and will never forget the good memories. With love, Justin Hoffman
Στον Ανδρέα μας, στη Δήμητρα, στο κ. Βασειλιάδη, σε όλους όσους δούλεψαν για αυτό το σεμινάριο, χίλια ευχαριστώ για μια μοναδική εμπειρία και για μένα και για τον Παύλο. Μακάρι να γίνει θεσμός και να σας βλέπουμε κάθε χρόνο. Να είστε όλοι σας όπως σας γνωρίσαμε, γεμάτοι ενέργεια και σοφία. Χριστίνα Κοκκινά
Βρίσκω ότι το σεμινάριο ήταν πολύ καλή ιδέα. Τα μαθήματα ήταν χαλαρά. Με τόσα κόλπα δεν νομίζω ότι θα κάνω πολλά λάθη. Είναι στα αλήθεια τέλειο! Παύλος
Thank you for your hospitality and the inspiration to teach at you wonderful festival! I have enjoyed every moment, and been owed by the beauty all around us. What a wonderful musical community you have here! I will carry many lovely memories of Corfu and the Piano Plus Festival back with me to Indianapolis. Kate Boyd
So many wonderful memories of my many visits to Corfu. I consider it my second home. Many thanks to the Piano Plus team, Andreas, Dimitra and Lambis for all the fantastic experiences, musical and culinary too! I hold you all in my heart.
Piano Plus έλα για να φας! Άλλη μια υπέροχη εβδομάδα με ρίσκο, πάθος και αμορ! Ραντεβού το επόμενο καλοκαίρι με καινούριες ανατρεπτικές εμπειρίες! Spread the love!
Και του χρόνου τελικό γεύμα, παρακαλώ πολύ, στο La famiglia…(ή τουλάχιστον στο Rex, αλλά με γλυκό για τέλος. Όχι φρούτο να ουμ…)
Ακόμα μια ωραία εμπειρία για μένα και το Piano Plus (έτσι ο παλιός είναι αλλιώς!), αλλά προτείνω στον πρόεδρο να επαναληφθεί όταν δε θα έχει τόση ζέστη γιατί δεν μπορούμε να συγκεντρωθούμε στα μαθήματα και το μυαλό μας έχει πάει παραλία!! Lavasoff
Παρ’ όλα αυτά αγαπημένε μας Ανδρέα, εκτιμούμε όλοι μας πάρα πολύ όλη τη διοργάνωση και αυτή την υπέροχη πρωτοβουλία, για την οποία τρέχεις και κοπιάζεις όλη τη χρονιά. Είσαι ο καλύτερος με ή χωρίς μουστάκι. Εβίτα
