It's safe to say that I'm a music lover. I spent the vast majority of my life in music training. I began piano at age 4, although my main focus turned to percussion by grade school. It is a passion that has followed me into adulthood. I have won numerous awards at both the high school and college level. Along the way I picked up flute, clarinet and violin as well. Some of my fondest memories include performances with concert band, orchestra, marching band, pep band, Latin band and worship band at church. I can even credit my college band experience for introducing me to my husband. He is a fellow percussionist and music lover.
In addition to instrumental work, I also participated in various choral groups. My favorite experience by far was with an a capella group that often performed sacred pieces. I will always reflect fondly on the opportunity to perform the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah. I really enjoy any opportunity for strong harmonies.
My love of music also translated to my dance training. From infancy, I couldn't help but move when I was inspired by a song. I trained up until high school when my band and choir schedule forced me to choose where my energies would be focused. I was fortunate enough to resume training in college. I spent nearly 10 years of my life creating and running a dance program. Not only was teaching a wonderful experience, it gave me an excuse to listen to music nearly every waking moment. I truly enjoyed writing choreography. It felt like I was completing a grand vision that the music set out to create. I had to leave my position when my daughter's condition required a great deal of my time.
While my life may be too full at the moment to indulge myself with bands, choirs or dance, music will always touch me and inspire me like nothing else. Both my husband and I intend to share this gift with our children. We are constantly looking for ways to pique their interest. I am hopeful that they will all develop an appreciation for music as well as technical proficiency with music theory. Given my love of Montessori, I'm eager to find ways to apply those principles in the process.
In the coming weeks, I plan to write about various aspects of music and young children. Some of the topics I plan to include are:
While a topic or two will focus specifically on the standard Montessori approach, a lot of the items covered will come from my personal experience with music meeting Montessori principles. As we proceed, I'll do my best to indicate which is which.
I'm excited to see where this series goes. I also hope that through the process, you will share your experiences. If you have any specific questions or areas that you'd like me to address, please leave a comment and I'll do my best to include it.
So stay tuned. My first topic will be on music appreciate for infants and todders.
In addition to instrumental work, I also participated in various choral groups. My favorite experience by far was with an a capella group that often performed sacred pieces. I will always reflect fondly on the opportunity to perform the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah. I really enjoy any opportunity for strong harmonies.
My love of music also translated to my dance training. From infancy, I couldn't help but move when I was inspired by a song. I trained up until high school when my band and choir schedule forced me to choose where my energies would be focused. I was fortunate enough to resume training in college. I spent nearly 10 years of my life creating and running a dance program. Not only was teaching a wonderful experience, it gave me an excuse to listen to music nearly every waking moment. I truly enjoyed writing choreography. It felt like I was completing a grand vision that the music set out to create. I had to leave my position when my daughter's condition required a great deal of my time.
While my life may be too full at the moment to indulge myself with bands, choirs or dance, music will always touch me and inspire me like nothing else. Both my husband and I intend to share this gift with our children. We are constantly looking for ways to pique their interest. I am hopeful that they will all develop an appreciation for music as well as technical proficiency with music theory. Given my love of Montessori, I'm eager to find ways to apply those principles in the process.
In the coming weeks, I plan to write about various aspects of music and young children. Some of the topics I plan to include are:
- Music Appreciation in Infants/Toddlers and Primary
- Reviews of Beginner Curriculums
- Beginning Music Theory
- Instrument Recommendations for Infants/Toddlers and Primary
- Tours of Our Music Area
- Classic Montessori Music Materials
- Favorite Online Resources
- Unusual Ways to Introduce Music
While a topic or two will focus specifically on the standard Montessori approach, a lot of the items covered will come from my personal experience with music meeting Montessori principles. As we proceed, I'll do my best to indicate which is which.
I'm excited to see where this series goes. I also hope that through the process, you will share your experiences. If you have any specific questions or areas that you'd like me to address, please leave a comment and I'll do my best to include it.
So stay tuned. My first topic will be on music appreciate for infants and todders.
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| And yes it makes me sad that this seems to be the only picture I can find of my musical adventures. My high school and college experience occured before the digital age. I do believe my parents have a wide assortment of concert settings where I'm in beautiful formals. My favorite is where I had the opportunity to conduct the top band during my senior year. In case you are curious, I'm marching snare in this photo. |
