Walking through the carpeted hallways of a well-regarded private school on the other side of town, I joined the group of women showing up looking somewhat frazzled after hours spent teaching small children. I chose the music instruction for preschool workshop as my way of obtaining the ongoing teaching credits necessary for my job.
I know music to an extent, having studied piano and flute for seven years from 5th grade through high school. I would pick up my flute again at the tender age of 29 performing in my last flute ensemble concert of our small community college class taught by a woman who played flute in the Denver Chamber Orchestra. I was pregnant with Gabriel at the time, aware that music instruction may have to be shelved while the demands of motherhood took over. After my flute was stolen during a break-in, and returned to me after divine intervention led me to the correct pawn shop, I made good on my promise to God by playing my flute in church where I hope to play it again someday--but I digress.
In the music room of this school, we sat in chairs around a carpet filled with musical symbols, where the students would sit during class. We were shown video clips of young children dancing around the circle using small steps and big ones; matching the musical selections in tone and intensity. As the music teacher read a book to us with a musical accompaniment, I experienced the pleasure of reentering my childhood, remembering how much I love being read to and how satisfying a beautifully illustrated children's book can be. I started thinking about the many books I have loved as a child, then as a mother and a teacher, and . . . .
By the end of the workshop we were each given a turn to go to the teacher's table to pick out either a cd or a poster for our classroom. Music is a powerful stimulant but can also evoke a sense of relaxation, thus giving our thoughts a chance to process more deeply. Studies have shown that the brain becomes engaged, soothed and encouraged to form all kinds of connections by listening to Mozart. The variety of children's music designed to awaken the sensitivities of the very young, as well as the brightly colored wall posters were inviting. But having much to consider lately, I popped in the cd I chose as I started my car. Angelic strains of Eine kleine Nachtmusik in G major came forth, bringing rest to my soul.
I know music to an extent, having studied piano and flute for seven years from 5th grade through high school. I would pick up my flute again at the tender age of 29 performing in my last flute ensemble concert of our small community college class taught by a woman who played flute in the Denver Chamber Orchestra. I was pregnant with Gabriel at the time, aware that music instruction may have to be shelved while the demands of motherhood took over. After my flute was stolen during a break-in, and returned to me after divine intervention led me to the correct pawn shop, I made good on my promise to God by playing my flute in church where I hope to play it again someday--but I digress.
In the music room of this school, we sat in chairs around a carpet filled with musical symbols, where the students would sit during class. We were shown video clips of young children dancing around the circle using small steps and big ones; matching the musical selections in tone and intensity. As the music teacher read a book to us with a musical accompaniment, I experienced the pleasure of reentering my childhood, remembering how much I love being read to and how satisfying a beautifully illustrated children's book can be. I started thinking about the many books I have loved as a child, then as a mother and a teacher, and . . . .
By the end of the workshop we were each given a turn to go to the teacher's table to pick out either a cd or a poster for our classroom. Music is a powerful stimulant but can also evoke a sense of relaxation, thus giving our thoughts a chance to process more deeply. Studies have shown that the brain becomes engaged, soothed and encouraged to form all kinds of connections by listening to Mozart. The variety of children's music designed to awaken the sensitivities of the very young, as well as the brightly colored wall posters were inviting. But having much to consider lately, I popped in the cd I chose as I started my car. Angelic strains of Eine kleine Nachtmusik in G major came forth, bringing rest to my soul.
Ah, yes. A wise and beautiful choice. I'm right there with you...nothing quite like Mozart.
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