Lola Mazza McIntyre has a new philosophy in
teaching piano to youngsters. She believes that all arts are related and
knowledge of fine and performing arts contribute to imaginative piano performances.
This idea began in Holland, Michigan where, at the age of 24, McIntyre and a partner began a music studio named "The Studio". They soon had five teachers and over 110 students.
She sponsored trips for the children to local concerts and master classes of visiting concert pianists, something most piano teachers do not consider doing on their own.
Two students of hers performed at the semi-finals of the American Music Scholarship Association International Piano Competition in Cincinnati, Ohio. This was unusual in that a teacher of her age (then 24) should have students to reach this level. "The stage door monitor thought I was the contestant", she remembers.
Then her husband was offered a position in Knoxville and she had to give up her studio.
After the move to Farragut, the University of Tennessee offered McIntyre a teaching assistantship. She became a student of Dr. David Northington, artist ambassador for the United States. And she began to teach students again here in Farragut.
As her teaching reputation began to grow, she began to wonder what she could do to foster a love of the Arts (not just piano) in her students. "I knew the parents are interested in providing the most for their children but families are very busy today", she said. "I wanted to improve the playing of my students in an enriching, positive environment."
So in 1986 she added a Resource Room containing a computer to the 600 square foot studio in her home. The computer teaches music theory and ear training aiming toward conservatory standard.
Soon she added a compact disc library so her students could listen to accurate renditions of the pieces they are performing. Next, came a video and audio cassette library of artists, operas, musicals and her own students performing in competitions and solo recitals.
The latest item to be added to the Resource Room is a list of articles on artists and the arts.
Every student is required to write a review of each activity chosen from the Resource Room.
McIntyre strongly believes that with the addition of all the resources and exposure to art in any form, her students' playing is "much richer and innovative on a national and international scale".
"I am a positive teacher", she said. "I care how my students play."
McIntyre can be heard at a free public piano recital on Sunday Oct. 16 at the U.T. Music Hall.