This short film gives an overview of two children playing the piano and includes off-camera quotes from each of them talking about how much they enjoy playing. They also share their sometimes frustrating experiences, but the passion they feel when they play is what captures them.
This brief short supports the concept of why the arts are needed, especially for young people. These children grow up to become adults and, without the arts, they would become adults lacking a place to express themselves. I really connected to the quote about not taking lessons your whole life but knowing that you will play for the rest of your life, as that is exactly how I feel about music. The film follows two children, Ava A. Johnson and Phineas J. Johnson, both of whom very naturally play themselves. I would have liked to know more about each of them, but you can see that they are both talented. During the credits, we learn that this film was shot on an Apple iPhone 6s. The camerawork is a little shaky at times and, there are a lot of fade to black transitions. I particularly enjoyed the recital scene where the point of view is from the audience. The recital location and home settings where the children practice are authentic. Snippets of music by classical composers such as Bach, Mozart, Vivaldi, Luigini, Beethoven, Dvorak and Pachelbel are all featured. The film is produced and directed by Jeffrey N. Johnson, whom I presume is the father of the two children. He is a writer, director, background actor and a fellow at the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. My favorite scene is definitely seeing the children play at their respective recitals.
The film's message is that even though you may love something, it can be hard work. But if you love it enough, then that hard work becomes worth it!
I give Lessons 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Bria H., KIDS FIRST!
This short film gives an overview of two children playing the piano and includes off-camera quotes from each of them talking about how much they enjoy playing. They also share their sometimes frustrating experiences, but the passion they feel when they play is what captures them.
This brief short supports the concept of why the arts are needed, especially for young people. These children grow up to become adults and, without the arts, they would become adults lacking a place to express themselves. I really connected to the quote about not taking lessons your whole life but knowing that you will play for the rest of your life, as that is exactly how I feel about music. The film follows two children, Ava A. Johnson and Phineas J. Johnson, both of whom very naturally play themselves. I would have liked to know more about each of them, but you can see that they are both talented. During the credits, we learn that this film was shot on an Apple iPhone 6s. The camerawork is a little shaky at times and, there are a lot of fade to black transitions. I particularly enjoyed the recital scene where the point of view is from the audience. The recital location and home settings where the children practice are authentic. Snippets of music by classical composers such as Bach, Mozart, Vivaldi, Luigini, Beethoven, Dvorak and Pachelbel are all featured. The film is produced and directed by Jeffrey N. Johnson, whom I presume is the father of the two children. He is a writer, director, background actor and a fellow at the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. My favorite scene is definitely seeing the children play at their respective recitals.
The film's message is that even though you may love something, it can be hard work. But if you love it enough, then that hard work becomes worth it!
I give Lessons 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Bria H., KIDS FIRST!
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