Final Thoughts on SPA 2009....

Hello! This is Dean Jenkins, checking in. I can't believe that SPA 2009 is over! I hope that all of our students have memories that will last a lifetime. My impression is that not only did they learn a tremendous amount in two weeks, but they also forged strong friendships. The final concert was truly impressive; I can't believe how amazing our students sounded in their chamber groups.

I wanted to put up a post by Richard Mittleman, grandfather of SPA violinist Cameron Mittleman. Dr. Mittleman visited Cameron frequently during SPA to check out our evening concerts and master classes. Here's what he had to say about his experience:

My name is Richard Mittleman and I accompanied my 12 year old grandson Cameron Mittleman to SPA.

We flew from Los Angeles and this is Cameron's first time being away from his parents for this long.

I have been attending all of the student and faculty performances and master classes.

It has been wonderful to hear and meet all of the student musicians. It is uplifting to see young people with the self discipline to work so hard and so long to become fine musicians.

Dean Chris Jenkins and assistant Dean Monica Davis have been welcoming and have designed a wonderful program.

All of the teachers are great with the young people.

This is the first time that I have heard the Harlem Quartet play. They are outstanding musicians and as importantly to me they are very nice, fun people.

They are an inspiration and wonderful role models for the young people attending SPA.
This will be an experience that I know Cameron will never forget and I feel blessed to have been able to share some of it with him.

Thanks for your post, Dr. Mittleman! I hope that all of our students feel the same way.

During the year, we at SPA will be using this space to keep you updated on SPA deadlines and Harlem Quartet concerts, and to talk about other music camps to which SPA students might attend. I hope you've enjoyed our recounting of events at SPA 09!

Sincerely,

Chris