July-Sept 2025 Student of the Month
- Snopws
- Sep 23
- 2 min read
Theo Ali
About the Student of the Month:
Throughout my years of teaching diverse students, I've never encountered a student quite like Theo. He challenges me in unprecedented ways, requiring me to stay alert and adaptive. Theo has synesthesia and perceives colors when he hears music. Many renowned musicians share this trait, such as Billy Joel, Franz Liszt, Duke Ellington, Billie Eilish, Lorde, Jimi Hendrix, and others. Unlike Theo, I don't see colors when I hear notes; instead, I feel vibrations in various parts of my body. Consequently, Theo's lessons differ significantly from those of a classically trained piano major. He also possesses the ability to play by ear, easily handling the right-hand music, but facing challenges with the left-hand parts. Thus, I encounter my own challenges in teaching him effectively. Theo is diligent in his practice at home and has a remarkable capacity to memorize his music. I thoroughly enjoy teaching him, as it requires me to impart my knowledge in new ways, allowing me to learn from him as well. I eagerly anticipate his musical development and am incredibly proud of him. His parents provide unwavering and extensive support. Just wait until you hear him perform his recital pieces; you'll be amazed, especially considering he has only been playing for seven months at the time of his second recital.
What does it mean to be student of the month to me?
I started playing the piano last fall, so it’s been less than a year. I have always loved music and I play the violin in the school orchestra. I also love to play soccer and basketball. I look up to my older brother, Alex. I love playing the piano for my family, especially my Pop, who is a huge music lover. He gives me cool ideas for new songs to learn.
Being picked as Miss Debby’s student of the month is so special. I work hard to make Miss Debby proud.
I want to thank Miss Debby for everything! Our lessons are so much fun! I can’t wait to keep learning new things on the piano.
Please share. like and subscribe if you appreciate Theo's performances!
Theo performs on the street in England! Go Theo! Is your child next? Send me videos of them playing. Please share. like and subscribe if you appreciate Theo's performances!
Criteria for Student of the Month:
Effort:
Student is consistently prepared with necessary materials for lessons
Student is musically prepared for lessons-evidence of practicing
Student shows active participation in lessons by answering questions and engages in discussions
Student demonstrates understanding of musical concepts by actively listening while playing
Student is able to understand and implement changes from teacher
Student plays other instruments but not required
Performance:
Student demonstrates outstanding musical performance through recitals
Student performs in outside concerts through their school but not required
Student is able to analyze critique their performance
Citizenship:
Student shows exceptional composure during recitals
Student is a role model and leader for other students at the recital
Student volunteers effortlessly without being asked
Student shows their talents and music skills in a humble way
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