Under Construction mr. Composer!

I have been attempting to update this blog with pictures and some modern designs but due to my internet connection it has proven to be quite the undertaking. One day I will master this but for now I'll concentrate on staying warm!! It's cooold out there. I will continue to have a class this week but if you choose to stay in from the cold I understand. Just email or phone me for the homework.
I lost a good friend this week to cancer. One of the greatest gifts she ever gave me was encouragement to share my music. Every time I played she would grab my arm and thank me for blessing her with my music. Be encouraged parents that you are giving your child so much more than music itself! I really appreciate the good families that are participating in MYC with me.
Sunbeams I - you must be noticing that the songs are requiring a bit more effort now. Take your time. Begin practise with a review song or skill to build confidence then try the new piece. Break the song down in chunks or "phrases". Remember that musical phrases are like sentences and make sound sense together. I am so proud of all of your composing efforts. The children are so creative!!
Sunbeams II - The e minor sound is such a deep dark sound that most children like playing it. It reflects real like challenges. Not everything is so major! Keep on practising. Include note review and clapping ensembles to build all the skills in music.
Moonbeams I - You guys are progressing at a wonderful rate. I am pleased with your practising because it shows in class. Keep review the notes and singing the solfege songs.
Have a good week and hope to see you all at the composing seminar on Saturday!
Mrs. V

Welcome back

Here we go into the New year. 2008 seems to be going by quickly already as it is already near the middle of January! My brain still seems foggy since the Christmas holidays so I hope yours is fresh and clear!!The first week of classes were a lot of fun. The children always have so much energy, unfortunately sometimes you as parents might not. Let's work together on this. I'll step in to help because they've likely heard your voice all day and need to hear a new one!

Please remember to wash/sanitize your hands when coming into the studio. Thanks for participating in the lessons too, I really appreciate your involvement.

SBI - You are great practicers! I can tell the children are catching on quickly at the keyboard. You can jazz things up by using singing, rhythm bags, tin sheets to keep music fun.
SBII - Keyboard practicing needs to start slowly and correctly and likely hands seperate. The W song definitely needs to start out hands seperate. These students are really starting to shine. Their enthusiasm for music makes teaching such a pleasure.
MBI - Good job! Keep praising your child. This group is right on track and I am pleased with their progresss.

Check your schedules to see if FEB. 2 - a Saturday - will work to come to a composition workshop. This is a great time to get it done!

Mrs. V