Minor Keys 2004
Distributed by National Film Board of Canada, 1123 Broadway, Suite 307, New York, NY 10010; 800-542-2164
Produced by Meiko Ouchi
Directed by Bonnie Thompson
VHS, color, 54 min.
College - Adult
Adolescence, Child Development, Education, Music
Date Entered: 03/03/2005
Reviewed by Margaret M. Reed, Riley-Hickingbotham Library, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia, ARProfiling the musical aspirations of two child prodigies, Minor Keys connects the personal, educational, and psychological dimensions that have influenced both students’ success.
As the personal interviews in the film reveal, violinists Ewald Cheung and Jessica Linnebach maneuvered the difficult path in the world of music because of their strong base of support - parents, siblings, and extended family. The film also shows how James Keene, one of their teachers and a former child prodigy, identified with Cheung and Linnebach and nurtured their musical and non-musical interests alike.
Minor Keys also addresses the child prodigy phenomenon. Noted developmental psychologist Dr. David Henry Feldman provides analytical observation about the conditions that foster extraordinary musical talent.
Inspiring and informative, Minor Keys presents the glamour and disappointment young musicians face as they strive toward a professional career that only a fortunate few ever realize. Music performance teachers and students will be enlightened by the experiences of Cheung, Linnebach, and Keene.
Highly recommended for academic and public libraries.