We sat down with one of our piano/composition teachers extraordinaire, Dr. Selim for a Q & A. An accomplished composer and pianist, he received his degrees from Mozarteum (Salzburg, Austria), University of Music and Performing Art Graz (Graz, Austria) & UC Berkeley.
1.How old were you when you started taking music lessons and what was your first instrument?
My brother started taking piano lessons when he was 7. The teacher, observing that I stood there during the lessons while singing the tunes my brother was playing, recommended that I start as well. Thus, I ended up starting playing the instrument at the age of 5.
2. Who/what inspired you to become a musician and music teacher?
I was very lucky to have teachers who were very giving and selfless. My piano teacher later became my harmony teacher as well. He has always been a role model for me, not only as a musician, but also as an individual.
3. Who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?
My piano/theory teacher, Mr. Ugur Unel, who sadly passed away a few months ago, has been a great influence. Also, my first composition teacher, Hasan Ucarsu has always been there for me. While preparing for composition and performance entrance examinations, we have spent hours at his studio, not only working, but talking about art, philosophy and pedagogy.
4.Tell us about your musical and teaching background.
I’ve been trained in a classical manner in regards to piano performance. However, my teacher was also an aspiring composer, and he realized my inclination to improvise and change the pieces I was working on. Thus, I ended up enjoying two different sides during my childhood: The strict necessities of piano technique, and the freedom and expressivity of improvisation.
5. Do you have important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?
Make time for music and art in your daily life. Nowadays, we are very prone to distractions. Set some time aside to listen to music -and music only, you don’t need video-, even for fifteen minutes.
6. What do you love most about teaching?
Children come up with the coolest ideas, and are not afraid to express themselves in general. I love improvising with students and find the interaction irreplaceable.
7. Do you have a practice tip you want to share with our students?
Whatever instrument you are practicing on, needs to sing. Whether it’s a very naturally singing instrument such as violin, or a keyboard instrument, it needs to follow the natural inclinations of the voice. Try singing along the melodies sometimes, even when you practice. Your voice -however good/bad it sounds- will guide you.
8. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not teaching, practicing, or performing?
During the pandemic I picked up chess. My dad taught me the basics when I was six or seven, however, I never played it ever since. Now in my 30s, I picked it up again -or shall we say, started properly-, and have been enjoying it so much. Just like with an instrument, there’s no improvement without making mistakes. Don’t be afraid of them: They are essential.