What was your favorite thing about growing up in your neighborhood?
Although Kailua was a much sleepier town when I grew up there, there was still good access to arts education, whether it was in Camille Almy's musical theater productions or lessons from my childhood teacher, Jean Harling, the former Principal Flutist of the Honolulu Symphony. Coming from a non-musical but supportive family, these became crucial opportunities for exploration and growth and are a small example of the importance of music education in our communities.
Ever since we entered the COVID era, many artists have taken up new hobbies and projects. Have you pursued any in the last year?
I devoted much of 2020 to learning about digital content creation. Figuring out how to film, audio record and edit yourself can be a painful process, but it can also be an invaluable learning opportunity. Initially, I started by making etude reference recordings for my students. Over time, I've expanded my types of content and have worked to steadily grow my YouTube channel (youtube.com/lancesuzuki). Forcing myself to create videos has kept me practicing and (hopefully) improving, even during this musically slow year.
This year has also made me remember how much I enjoy cooking, and today I'm making these Flourless Cocoa Cookies (NYT Cooking subscription required…sorry!) which I absolutely love!
You’re awarded an unlimited amount of dollars to plan your dream vacation. Where would you go and why?
Honestly, every vacation feels like a dream. I love exploring new places and my recent favorites have been Vienna and Marrakech. I hope to make it to Berlin and Seoul in the near future.
El Badii Palace, Marrakech, Morocco
What is your philosophy of teaching?
My primary focus is on creating natural sound production through body awareness. As players, we are merely conduits...for the composer's markings on the page and the air and energy in the universe to connect with our instruments, becoming sound and music. The less we get in the way, the better.
What is your favorite piece of music to play? To listen to?
Among my favorite pieces in our repertoire is Debussy's Sonata for Flute, Viola and Harp. Written near the end of his life, this piece is a true testament to Debussy's creative genius. The unusual instrumentation and intimate style of composition make it a special experience to play and listen to.
What advice do you have for the young aspiring musicians of the next generation?
Your most important assets are your perseverance and dedication. Sometimes just sticking out the hard times is a greater challenge than any piece of music that may come your way.
For more from HMTA Teacher, Lance Suzuki…
Website: https://www.lancesuzuki.com
Instagram: @lancesuzuki
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/lancesuzuki