What is a Masterclass with Dora Ivanova like? by Mike Cheong

When Karen approached me to do a story on Professor Dora’s Masterclasses, I was hesitant. After hearing so much and reading about her accomplishments, how was I, someone who is not musically-inclined, able to do justice to our guest Professor at Tanglewood?

And Sean Tay came to my rescue.

Sean Tay is a 12-year-old violin student who has been with Tanglewood Music School for the past three years. It was Karen who recommended I speak to Sean for the story, who said that Sean, being a pleasant boy, would be agreeable to help out.

I distinctively remember my first meeting with Sean – a shy, modest guy. But when asked about his experience with Dora, he certainly opened up.
 

Q: Is this your first Masterclass with Professor Dora?
Sean: Yes, it’s my first time having lessons with Prof. Dora.

Q: Were you excited to hear that Prof. Dora is in Singapore?
Sean: It was OK at first, until I had my first lesson and I felt that she was a great teacher.

Q. What is it like to study under Prof. Dora? Could you share about some tips you learnt?
Sean: It feels great to study under Prof. Dora as she is patient with me, although I made some mistakes.

She also teaches in detail. She taught me how to express my music well, by teaching me a few tactics on how to improve the quality of my music.

Q: How useful did you find the Masterclasses?
Sean: I was about to take my violin exam at that time and felt that my pieces were still not well-played. After two or three lessons with her, I felt that I improved a lot and was relieved that I can play them well now.

Q: How about more Masterclasses if Prof. Dora visits Singapore again?
Sean: Yes! I would like to have more Masterclasses with Prof. Dora if she comes back.

For the sake of Sean and the other students at Tanglewood, I certainly hope that Professor Dora will be coming back to Singapore soon!