Graduation Day: A Mother’s Perspective
Edmonton Suzuki Piano School musician Mia Pedernal recently graduated from Volume 7 and the ESPS program. As a final milestone, she performed in a solo concert at Stencel Hall for family and friends. Her mom, Lilian, reflected on Mia’s journey and her significant achievement, and shared her thoughts with us.
This is for you, Mia. You have such a beautiful heart. ❤️
As Dr. Shinichi Suzuki always said, "Music exists for the purpose of growing an admirable heart."
Looking back at your journey, I can see how true those words are.I still remember when you were just four years old, sitting on a binder to prop you up on the piano bench, reminding yourself with "deep breaths" and softly saying 'sorry' whenever your tiny fingers fumbled on the keys of your very first Twinkles. Reflecting on it now, I realize it was never about fear—it was just your huge, passionate heart wanting so badly to bring the music to life.
Things were not easy at the beginning. Through the early practices and honest tears, you pushed through with so much dedication. Like back during Book 2, when you had a tummy ache right at a recital but you pressed on anyway—you always had that fierce drive inside you.
We practiced together all the way to Book 3, and then I just looked on in awe as I couldn't keep up with you anymore. Your love for music grew so big that you asked for the violin and the flute, too. You truly loved it so deeply that you would get out of bed and go to the piano completely on your own, even at 2 AM. "When love is deep, much can be accomplished."
Once you found your stride, Books 3 to 7 were completed in a breeze. You flew through every challenge with so much heart and pure determination. "Knowledge is not skill. Knowledge plus ten thousand times is skill." You put in those ten thousand times, Mia.
Watching you take the stage and play your graduation repertoire with so much poise, grace, and confidence is so beautiful to see. Your genuine love for the music comes through in every single note. "Beautiful tone, beautiful heart."
You officially finished the final book in the Suzuki piano repertoire, Mia! I am so incredibly proud of you, your unstoppable spirit, and the magnificent, multi-talented artist you have become. Please remember to always keep your love for music quiet and sincere, and simply enjoy sharing your gift with the world.
Mia with her ESPS teacher, Eleanor Tsui