I trust that you are keeping safe and have managed to find at least some form of normality during these chaotic and trying times.
Following the recent announcements of local officials extending school closures (some cancelling classes through April 30, while others will be effectively switching over to remote instruction until the end of the school year), I am regrettably letting you know that Chevy Chase Music will extend its preventive measures until the end of the current school year. However, since we realize the importance of keeping our students busy and learning, we will continue to conduct our lessons remotely. I realize that this is an inconvenience, to put it mildly, but it is a necessary step to ensure the safety of our students, teachers, and the entire community, while keeping providing a music education.
Due to the nature of our work, which involves traveling from house to house across the entire DMV area, we simply have to act proactively and adhere to the highest possible standards of safety, as normally some of us visit about 15 houses on a weekly basis.
Needless to say, this is an unprecedented situation and the repercussions will be felt for quite some time, even after the imposed measures will be lifted. However, safety is of the utmost importance, and as the numbers are rolling in, we at least have the certainty that these measures do help mitigate the spread. Since misinformation is rampant, I warmly recommend to consult the World Health Organization’s website (https://www.who.int/teams/risk-communication) for accurate and updated information.
I am also saddened by the fact that we will have to cancel our spring recital. However, I believe that we have to keep students working towards a goal, which is why I would like to hear your opinion on taking our recital online by sharing performance videos at the end of the school year on a private channel that only participants will have access to. This way, students would be working towards completing their recital pieces, and parents would get their videos! I am curious to hear your thoughts.
This disease tested the preparedness of communities, which includes all teaching institutions across the world. I am truly glad that remote lessons have proven highly effective for us, making it possible to continue to provide essentially the same level of instruction using videoconferencing applications.
Once more, I would like to thank you for your understanding and positive attitude, as it is helping us cary on sharing our love for music and education. I truly wish that you and your families remain healthy and safe and, as always, please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any suggestions or concerns.
Kindest regards,
Rok Palcic
Director, Chevy Chase Music