Every winter and spring, my students celebrate their musical achievements in front of an audience. It takes courage, hard work, focus, practice, and it is impressive to see the results. A week ago I was reminded once again how lucky I am to be part of such a wonderful community of parents and children […]
Connecting notes successfully in a melody means the difference between sounding like a typewriter and sounding like a singer with a beautiful voice. I often use the phrase “passing off the pinch” to help describe the principle of correct left hand movement that occurs between notes of a melody. The basic principle is simply […]
Lately, I have been spending more and more “guitar time” with my oldest son, Max (5). Though I used to sit down with him once or twice a week and let him have lightly structured “fun” (which is what I refer to as the “babble phase”) I realize as these days go by that […]
Internet, television, video games, sports, chores, and homework ferociously compete for your child’s music making time at home and, unfortunately, they often win. If we truly want our children to succeed in music, to enjoy the rewards of mastering a musical instrument, both indirect and direct, and to lead culturally rich lives, it helps […]
As an educator, I’ve both learned from experience and learned from research about the importance of empathy. Teachers and parents who empathize with their students and children can transform a negative dynamic to a constructive one.
Reflect on your language at home during guitar time and if you are an educator, during class. Phrases […]
