From February 26th to 29th, violinist and educator Professor Sebastian Müller conducted a week-long teaching and research activity at our school. Professor Müller, who also teaches at the Yehudi Menuhin School in the UK, the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, and the Royal Northern College of Music, provided our students with a deep insight into the teaching atmosphere and classroom environment of the Yehudi Menuhin School in the UK. Additionally, he offered valuable guidance and suggestions based on his teaching experience at the two universities.
For Chinese students on how to apply to overseas music institutions that suit them best, Professor Sebastian Müller has a detailed "guide to further education." Please click the video to view.
Sebastian Müller Shares Tips on Overcoming Performance Anxiety
Professor Sebastian Müller delivered the first professional development lecture of the new semester, focusing on "Overcoming Performance Anxiety." Drawing from his extensive performance experience, he shared how the specialized laboratory at the Royal Northern College of Music simulates performance environments to help students overcome performance anxiety. He provided 13 practical tips, including focusing on the music, familiarizing oneself with the environment in advance, and engaging in positive warm-ups. He also recommended professional materials for students to reference.
At the Wednesday lunchtime concert, Professor Sebastian Müller showcased his talent by performing classic works by Dvořák and Franck with teachers and students from both the UK and Chinese schools, earning applause from the audience.
Attention to Detail in Teaching
During teaching, Professor Sebastian Müller conducted master classes and one-on-one sessions for 10 of our violin students. For pedagogical research, he actively shared his teaching experiences with our teachers, discussing topics such as helping students develop good practice habits and comparing different editions of Beethoven's Violin Concerto.
Professor Wang Hong, Head of the Violin Faculty, remarked that Professor Sebastian Müller imparted very practical basic violin playing methods to the students, including holding the violin, bow grip, bowing, sound production, bow speed, and contact point adjustment. His advice on choosing music score editions was also highly relevant to our focus and concerns.
Research and Exchange
Sebastian Müller made time for face-to-face exchanges with high school students. Besides analyzing the characteristics of different countries and institutions, he emphasized the importance of mastering various skills alongside their main study, to make the best investment in their future development, rather than solely focusing on making a living through playing the violin.
Guidance on Further Education
As his residency came to an end, Professor Sebastian Müller expressed his amazement at how The Yehudi Menuhin School Qingdao was established and operated so smoothly in such a short time. He shared his anticipation and high expectations for the school's future development.
