My daughter and I have missed the viola in our house for a year now because another music program was cut after she took a full year of viola lessons at her school. Our county (and really the rest of the country) struggles to keep a music program alive--and it is truly one of those things I lament. We have to find ways to get music in the hands of so many children. For my daughter, who is quite the little talent, renting a viola for a real orchestra program in middle school has been a real thrill.
I'm more than willing to listen to a budding musician find her way (even if that means a million "Hot Cross Bun" renditions). The viola has such a wonderful tone.
My other daughter is playing French horn in the band (I was a bit thankful she switched from trumpet after the first year). I love the mellow tone it has, like the viola.
Oh, that takes me back a few years. All three of our boys played in band and/or orchestra and took piano. I loved every minute of it also. In their 30s now, they all still play something, although not necessarily the instruments they studied! Fun memory.
I used to schlepp the cello home in grade 8 and 9. I was soooo great, the music teacher whispered to me before a concert, '...it's okay, you don't have to play...". Whew.
This valley is brimming with musical prodigies. The secret here seems to be talented music teachers rather than school music programs that exist, but are fairly limited. Kids also participate in school and church music whenever they can, and many entertain at the senior center. I love this shot with its focus on the chipped polish, and the beautiful line of strings leading to a hint of the viola. Fav.
@rvwalker I have taught many students who have seen music as a lifeline--something they are really passionate about when the rest of their talents and skills get criticized too much. Music is a discipline like the rest, but it really allows for so much more creativity than other subjects (I like to think that my discipline has more flexibility, but it depends on instructors). In my early years teaching, music was the one thing that really kept my students who were struggling focused on their goals. And they were such talents. And it gave them joy.
Funny you should mention playing at the senior center. My daughter Aidan just joined a club for volunteering and she said she wanted to play her instrument at the senior center. Two years ago she played a mini-concert for some of the seniors at my dad's church--music is universally loved and appreciated. I just wish there were more people who understood its value in schools--at least here in urban life. It can be a lifesaver. :) Thanks ever so much for the fav!
@darylo My congratulations and admiration to Aidan. Here's a photo of our senior center entertainers. My wife is a fine accompanist, and she has had the pleasure of playing with these kids in their home. http://365project.org/rvwalker/365/2013-03-01
Love the POV! The focus here is on a young musician (nail polish as evidence) and the playing of the instrument. My daughter plays violin, and it has been an important part of her life growing up, and continues today. She was a classical musician, but now takes lessons in fiddling. I hope your girls find music to be an important part of their lives forever, too. I feel that my childhood years of music learning have impacted the ways in which I enjoy music as an adult.
When school systems begin to realize that taking musical instruments is such a plus for every child then our world will be a better place. Music has been out and in at different times in our schools in my town. We put our children thru private school because at the time our town didn't have music or drama or art. I am a retired music teacher so I've seen it all. But I have to say, if a child has music they can get thru anything!!! Some of my BEST students were the worst children in school in other classes. I have been thru the entire range of teaching music General K thru 6th. Beginning instruments, recorders, Middle school Band and High school band. Doesn't get any better than that!! Great shot!.
September 10th, 2013
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Funny you should mention playing at the senior center. My daughter Aidan just joined a club for volunteering and she said she wanted to play her instrument at the senior center. Two years ago she played a mini-concert for some of the seniors at my dad's church--music is universally loved and appreciated. I just wish there were more people who understood its value in schools--at least here in urban life. It can be a lifesaver. :) Thanks ever so much for the fav!