Tanglewood’s Cassandra Lo scores Disctinction in Cello Performance Diploma Exam
Miss Cassandro Lo, assistant cello teacher at Tanglewood Music School has scored a distinction in the latest Associated Board Royal School of Music Diploma Examination for Cello Performance.
Cassandra recalls her feelings on the examination day,
As I began to read the examiners’ write-up and accolades, with full knowledge that I would be facing the two examiners for one solid hour, nerves just got the better of me.
But quickly I turned away from the wall on which the write-up had been put up, and attempted to calm my anxious heart down. Thankfully, with the support and presence of my parents, teacher, plus a reassuring note from the steward, I entered the exam studio with a tinge of nervousness intertwined with a self-assuring reminder that I need not be intimidated, for I knew I had prepared my very best.
I found that having a conversation with the examiners proved to be very helpful, as they were evidently patient and understanding. That certainly chased some of the exam blues away, during the period given to settle down. So, what was it like taking the exam? Before the exam - mixed feelings of apprehension and a “Go, you can do it!” attitude, sprinkled with a toss of excitement.
During the exam – minimal acceleration of the heartbeat, occasional moments of anxiety, but altogether, it was an enjoyable hour, thanks to the friendliness of the two examiners. After the exam - a great sigh of relief, filled with joy and gladness – I was liberated, freed at last. On a positive note, such feelings (or nerve-racking moments) are only available during exams, performances etc. – aren’t they precious?
Cassandra also talked about the 1844 Heinrich Zimmermann cello she played, currently on loan from GPA Holdings, and expressed her thanks to her mentor, Karen:
The Zimmermann cello I perform on is, indeed, an efficient messenger that has been generously loaned to me by Ms. Karen. Like a faithful companion, I find great ease in conveying my feelings and thoughts, for each note that comes forth from that beautiful cello simply rings. I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment, in practice or performance, with this cello, and anticipate future opportunities that may come my way!
Tanglewood Music School is proud of Cassandra’s achievement and these are her parting words:
This Diploma exam proved to be a great challenge that brought about much learning though often mixed with trying moments. Ironically, after taking the exam, I found myself wishing it were not over. I had enjoyed and now missed the preparation process, the discoveries made from the necessary research, the hard work involved… all that had encompassed this exciting “expedition.” So on a personal note, an achievement is really no achievement, unless all my wholehearted effort has been dished out and integrated into the final performance – true satisfaction and joy comes when we know we have done our best; to me, that is the best trophy or achievement anyone could attain.
