Dimapur, November 24 (MExN): Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) hosted an international webinar on ‘The Many Facets of a Classical Guitarist: Techniques, Performance, Health, and Pedagogical Issues’ with Dr Ren Merry, a Naga classical guitarist enthusiast as the resource person on November 23.
A press note received here stated that guitar students from MSSM and other guitar teachers and enthusiasts from within and outside the State and Philippines attended the webinar.
Dr Merry stating that that his philosophy on music with regard to the idea of music-making and teaching were largely shaped by his worldview as a believer in Christ and as one entrusted to engage in music, which is a gift from God, for His glory. He said that it was vital for musicians to have one’s own musical philosophy for guidance and direction with greater clarity. Musicians are to seek for things that are good, beautiful, and true.
On techniques, Dr Merry said it was vital to learn the instrument in a systematically manner and not to jump impatiently to harder pieces at the risk causing serious injury to one’s hand. Practice and health habits were also discussed. “Deep Practice” was advocated which involved slow, chunking, and repetitive practice.
He stressed that musicians should acquire the art of teaching because performance alone would not help one to survive for long. At the close of the webinar, the attendees were treated to a delightful performance by Dr Merry, who played a piece titled, “Sunrise” which reminisced the coming of light (the good news of the gospel) into the dark world of a person’s life.
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