“Imagination, knowledge, and work form the foundation of music making.”
Imagination is the seed from which all things grow. Without this seed, nothing can flourish - nothing can blossom. Students can never forget this. To play without imagination is to merely exhibit training - but the playing will not speak to the soul. I actively encourage my students think about what they are studying and insist that their imagination is vibrantly connected to every note and detail of their performance.
Knowledge takes the form of lessons, listening, and research. Pianists must acquire a thorough understanding of piano technique, without which they will be unable to express themselves clearly. They must study music theory and history to gain a firm grasp of the language and their own relevance in the world. They should be familiar with recordings and performances of the great pianists to develop a sense of style and nuance. It is my responsibility to guide my students’ progress in all of these areas and help them integrate their experience into an artistic statement.
Work is the thorough examination and practical application of imagination and knowledge. Work takes time. Work takes energy. Work requires the ability to accept challenges, the courage to make mistakes, and the patience and determination to overcome difficulties. Work must be done with love, or it will lack meaning - and is preferably done with happiness, to avoid fatigue. A significant part of my teaching responsibility is finding effective ways to motivate and support my students in their work - each in a unique way that is useful for them.
Currently, Mr.Duarte is the Director of the UNC - Chapel Hill Community Music School, serves on the piano faculty of Duke University, and maintains a private studio in Chapel Hill, NC. His formerly held piano teaching positions include The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina Central University, and The Colburn School of Music.
Mr. Duarte’s students have received first prize at many competitions, including:
MTNA Kawai North Carolina State High School Competition
Bradshaw & Buono International Competition
The North Carolina Symphony Concerto Competition
The Durham Symphony Concerto Competition
East Carolina University Young Artist Competition
Winston-Salem Symphony Peter Perret Youth Talent Search Competition
MTNA Chapel Hill Festival
MTNA Durham Festival
Students of Mr. Duarte have been awarded significant scholarships to attend the country’s most prestigious schools of music, including: