The Power of Music

How about…..Quit Your Job.  Buy a Cello.  And Get Paid to Change the World through Music!

 Turns Out We All Should Engage with Music.  Now there’s a thought. But what does this really mean?

Music is powerful and can have a dramatic effect on us.

 As, John Haltiwanger on Science says:  “Music makes everything better.

It brings people together, and reminds them what a gift it is to be alive and breathing.  

Good music is like good food, it’s just plain good. It doesn’t matter where it originated, it’s universally palatable.   It transcends both space and time. It unifies people; breaching seemingly impenetrable cultural and generational divides. 

Music inspires laughter, tears, song and dance. It’s simultaneously soothing and emotive.  It works its way from the top of your head down to the tips of your toes; breathing new energy into every fibre of your body. 

Music tells stories, captures complex emotions and breeds diversity.  It expresses the inexpressible, making hard times easier, and good times even better.”

One of the Fascinating Features of Music is the Way it has Spectacular Power to Impact our Judgments.

For instance – Music can even influence our sensory perception – our perception of flavour.

The Australian Chamber Orchestra performed recently at a ‘Wine & Music Matching’ Masterclass in the Orchestra’s rehearsal room at Sydney’s Circular Quay, to explore how music can change our sense of taste.

As the Masterclass Testers were tasting the identical wine sipped from each glass, they were listening to different pieces of music played. Some Mozart, Brahms, Beethoven and a modern except from early 20th century Webern.  The same wine in each glass with the only changes being the music.

But, as each different music piece played along with each same wine sample, the testers profoundly changed their assessment of the wine.

It happens! It’s sometimes called synaesthesia.

Music is one of the most Impressive and Beautiful Achievements of the human race and deserves a permanent place in Education.

And how can we not be excited by the prospect of Music Benefits with long-term Positive Effects? 

Like I need an excuse to revisit the fascinating work of Anita Collins.  Anita Collins shares how learning music influences our brain development, and what this means for musical education.

Anyway, the question being asked….. ‘IS PLAYING MUSIC AN OPTION?’

My friend Ginny wants To Play a Musical Instrument.  But, It Won’t Be for a Career. And, it’s not going to Make Big Money.  So, can this be a Process to Change her World?

Playing a musical instrument is a lifestyle choice that, if practiced correctly, is something that we all can find success in.

But, the pace of daily life in our scrolling, web-surfing culture that fragments concentration and swallows spare time, if we actually have any of that, is ill-suited to the mental absorption of learning music.

Learning a musical instrument is not fast.  This is not in that part of life that shouts ‘overnight success!’

It’s not about instant results in an instant world where everything is at our finger tips to consume quickly.  Our learning swiping motion is ineffective while learning instrument fingerings – especially if the instrument is an oboe!  And there are no apps to take over the sheer persistence of practice.

Not to worry though.   If you want to play music beautifully, you have to know how to play a musical instrument beautifully. It’s like nothing you’ve experienced before.

‘In the beginning – at first they say we sound awful.  In fact you’re probably going to sound terrible.

And then one day after much practising, rearranging your life to fit in extra fun gigs, upgrading from that first instrument to a real one, and loving every moment of the process. You think, you know that your playing doesn’t sound too bad.  By the end of the term it’s well wow!  You rock the socks off.’

In a new series on Channel 4 world-renowned classical pianist James Rhodes says music education in the UK has been “decimated”, bemoaning the fact that learning a musical instrument is now seen as a luxury.  And, a 2013 Ofsted report showed quality music education was reaching just a minority of pupils.  And James asks families in Britain to donate old musical instruments left languishing in cupboards to those who need them.

Richard Gill has some very interesting insights into children’s music education and why it’s a must have for all children.

Because, as long as instrumental music instruction is offered as part of the school day, it remains one of the best ways for kids to learn to be great thinkers, citizens, innovators and human beings.  That is the power in instrumental music education.  The intellectual growth and happiness of our children depend on us keeping music alive and well in our communities.

The San Diego Youth Symphony’s Community Opus Project, is really interesting.

One of many music education programs sponsored by The NAMM Foundation, helps to introduce at-risk youth to the benefits of music making. Seventh grader Bruno Bello shares how this El Sistema-inspired program has changed his life, and the way he sees his future. Bruno has been a student since 2010.

 There’s Only Two Kinds of Music!  Good Music.  And Bad Music!

So?  What Really Is Music?

Chatting with retired musos around the dinner table, conversation inevitably turns to music loved or music unloved.  Picking a favourite music genre is as impossible as deciding which musical instrument is best! Are we classical music lovers or loathers?  Can we agree on something? Anything!

Here is the beautiful thing…It’s actually very hard to explain.

Something that can take your breath away.  It just grabs your heart and away you go.  A Language of exquisite melodies and astounding rhythms connected to the universe!  Music captures something within our hearts, our souls, something that is huge. A Something we all can always connect with.

There are so many interesting conversations to have about Music and it is pointless to argue which Music is best.

And in all fairness we all play favourites!  Music Favourites.  Best genres. Best sounding instruments! So many choices!

My local newspaper last week covered stories about  Musical Theatre; a Classical Gala Evening with an impressive array of sopranos and tenors and string quartets; a High Vibes Hip Hop Festival, and a gig for junior musos at the Brisbane Music Conference.….pitched to young people looking at a career in the music industry.

And you can find news about a concert with the Italian Chamber Orchestra; or the electronic duo Hermitude and music that people can dance to, and sing along to.

Or Bach, maybe Vivaldi.  It’s all out there happening in the community.

But what about Fiona who loves Punk Music.  It’s what started her love for music!  Well, everyone’s favourite  DJ Duo Peking Duk are heading for global superstardom and they’re bringing their friends along for the ride.

I’m into Music.  It’s a life changing process.  I really love it.

It always holds that special place in my heart. But then I love being a musician.

Cheers Chrissy

Chrissy Tetley

LIVE MUSIC

Anyone familiar with my interest in blogging would have noticed that there hasn’t been much posting happening lately!

And, nothing may have happened but some real close friends nagged me into a cul de sac and I realised I would have to ‘fess up to having new friends!

“Live Musicians!”

When you’ve been a musician, you’re always a musician.  You can’t help yourself!

Music was not just something that I loved to do. I cannot separate myself from it.

 Live Music is Powerful. It’s Universal.

An idea came to a couple of old mates after I figured that I could not envision music being something I used to do!

My guitarist friend convinced a retired flute player [ that would be me ], to give music another go.

It was a bold idea for retired musicians and I have to admit I wasn’t entirely enthusiastic to begin with. I mean, what could attract older amateur musicians into the daily commitment of practice, and getting to meet up every week with combined zest to check how progress is going?

Note to Self!  Could be out in the sunshine, feet up sampling the latest coffee brews.

Anyway, I hopped on the internet to find what’s out there musically speaking.

 Swing Jazz Anyone?

Musicians appeared from nowhere to join in. Like me they’ve had lives enriched by playing musical instruments. We came together to meet. And one person after another pulled out their musical instruments and deep and meaningful conversations centred on whether we could cut it as older musicians in the fast lane of the fun, the power and the fascination of live music.

There’s something utterly wonderful about a group of like-minded folk who gather together to play music.  We like hearing each other play.  A few of our musicians are classically trained which gives us the opportunity to play swing jazz, light classics and wonderful folk songs, exploring the diversity of our musical instruments.

This Call to Music!  What’s It About?

Music connects us to other humans in amazing ways and by playing musical instruments we create sounds that can move other human beings!

Eric Abraham marched off to War. [WW1] so moved by the Boonah Brass Band’s stirring rendition of Marseillaise at a 1915 recruitment meeting – “the damn music got me!”

Says Peter Greene –

” In 40 – some years I have never gotten over it – you take seemingly random marks on a page, you blow air through a carefully constructed tube.  Or pull on a string.  Or whack something.  And what comes out the other side is a sound that can convey things that words cannot.

It is both indescribable and enormously compelling to see the many ways in which humans playing music come together and connect to each other.

You are part of something — something bigger than yourself and more than the sum of the parts.

Any Music, but especially Live Music, reaches and develops parts of the brain like nothing else. It is one of the few activities humans can engage in which requires physical, mental, emotional and spiritual input all at the same time.”

Music is one of Humankind’s Most Wonderful Creations!

According to William McInnes

“Classical Music, [for want of a better word] is some of it’s very best.  You only have to hear a full symphony orchestra play live to understand what a complex and marvellous beast classical music can be. 

How the various sections of the orchestra stand out, then blend together to form a great wave of sound that surges over you, carrying your imagination and heart to wherever. 

And that’s the thing.  Classical Music, perhaps more than most, taps into the emotions and minds of people. It has such scope, range and power, that it may be seen as rarefied art.  …There’s also the truth that through studying music people can interact with it on different levels.”

One thing that has steered kids towards classical music and orchestral instruments has been Disney Movies!  Or to be precise, the orchestral sound tracks from Disney Movies.  Who would have thought such a thing was even possible.

Teach Kids Music!

Soprano Bryony Dwyer began playing the clarinet after she found herself listening for the clarinet in the Disney Movie soundtracks.

“I also remember an oboe solo in ‘The Lion King’ that stuck in my head from when I was really young.”  She says.

So, Can We Agree That Children Should Learn to Play a Musical Instrument?

Fine.  But have you thought about which one?  It’s a question that pops up frequently.

Ask a child these questions.  ‘Have you ever wondered what it would be like to play a cello?  Or a bassoon? Or French horn or tuba?  The music is unmistakable.’

And do you know what these instruments can really sound like when played by the best musicians?’

There is still an alarming number of kids who begin music lessons for a couple of terms and then quit.  In my experience it can mean that they haven’t found the right instrument to play.

Fun Music Ensemble

And, have you noticed that children, especially boys, are convinced that learning to play a musical instrument means playing drums with lots of cymbals or an electric guitar?

Well, my mate Jaime has a nephew who tried guitar, piano, and clarinet before his parents agreed for him to learn trombone.

At age ten Scotty Barnhart wanted to play the violin. “You brought the permission slip home from school and your parents signed it and went to get the instrument for you.  I can see like it was yesterday, my mother coming down the drive and opening the case.  It was a silver trumpet shining as the sun hit it.  I said ‘wow’ and never did ask what happened to the violin.”

Ross Calia, is a photographer , music producer, sound designer and classical pianist . With his wife Rochelle and five kids under nine Ross enjoys fun family jam sessions with everyone taking turns on piano, guitar, bass, drums and woodwind instruments.

Valentino  Zucchiatti  – was only 23 years old when he was chosen by Riccardo Muti as a Solo Bassoonist of the Scala Orchestra in Milano.

“I was about six years old growing up in a household where classical music always aired. Mine was a context where playing an instrument was considered a personal worth much more than being rich.

When I was nine, my big brother took me to a free music class held by an elderly clarinet player whose enthusiasm was contagious. There I got a eureka moment: I understood the necessity to produce beautiful sounds, to use my body, my reflexes, my senses and my coordination and my nimbleness to produce that art I already appreciated on my own..

 I wanted to play the organ. So I tried with the “get-one-foot-in-the-door-one-way-or-another” technique with any instrument so that I could shift seamlessly to my primary choice once I was already inside. There were seats in the French Horn and Bassoon class. I chose the horn because I knew it better. However, after I got my dental arcade examined my Horn professor took me to the bassoon professor. As you see, it was a series of random steps.” 

The More children Hear and See Orchestral Instruments Playing, the More They Will Be Inspired to ‘Give It a Go.

And we have to make a way to make that happen.

• Through Local concerts
•  Joining a local music group or community and children’s orchestras.
•  Even that great favourite – youtube

 I’ve just discovered Anthony Mazzocchi, and I really like His Stuff!

‘Ah, the struggle of learning something new.  I don’t know too many people who were able to ride a bike perfectly the first time they did it

You see, there’s a myth out there that some kids have “a natural talent for music,” and that’s why they become good at playing an instrument. Forget this myth that some kids are just musically gifted.’ The sad truth is that many non-music teachers and administrators do not find music equally as important as math or English language-arts,

Music is a core subject…period.  The more parents treat it as such, the less students will quit

The truth is, learning to play an instrument is a craft. And like any other craft, playing an instrument well requires learning to practice often, and learning to practice the right way.’

Are We Ignoring The Call to Music?

Teach Kids Music

I get it when kids say they don’t want to learn music because too often their only music experiences are canned pop and rock.  Anthony Mazzocchi quips.

The Courier Mail’s Greg Sheridan is not so subtle!  “My youngest son is an uppity young fellow at the tail end of generation Y.  His generation’s music sounds like the auditory manifestation of a migraine. 

But most compelling are the words from Music Education advocate, Richard Gill who states – “until we value the arts and music education in Australia, we will remain in danger of being a dull, unimaginative nation”.

And so there’s no point in discussing at great length the amazing benefits of a musical education for children if, as Australian music advocates claim, there is significant disparity in schools when it comes to music education.

A recent survey conducted by advocacy group The Music Trust found that 63 per cent of responding schools offered no music education and that only 23 per cent of government school music programs were taught by specialist music teachers; as opposed to 88 per cent of private schools.

Furthermore, the Trust claims that in an average undergraduate primary teaching degree, students receive only 17 hours of music education; compared with 350 hours for trainee teachers in Finland, and 160 hours in South Korea.

And if Students Are Not Part of a School Music Education Program?

Should we look ahead and wonder what will be the outcome if very few kids ever take up the opportunity of learning to play music?

“There is very little chance they would seek to develop their musical skills outside the school setting — and that would be detrimental to their human growth.” Says Anthony Mazzocchi.

So, does this leave older musicians, enjoying their last encore, playing favourite tunes, before they peter out?

Well, not the Old time Swing/Jazz group I’m part of.

Music is Fun!

We’re really into it!  And, we have our first ‘gig’ to look forward to! Yep!  We’re on a roll.  And it feels good.

As older musicians we still have enthusiasm and heaps of passion for playing live music.

And hey sure of course we think we sound like Count Basie musicians!  That is without trumpet or trombone.

So while we’re all here!

Music Education

I’m inspired to re-plug the fascinating books produced by Music On The Bookshelf.   Because In the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, academics have a theory that ‘skilfully composed stories’ can have a deep effect on children.

Have you realized that such interesting help in the form of children’s stories is at hand to teach kids about orchestral musical instruments?

Teach Kids Music!  It’s Fun!

Chrissy

Kids Love Music

Children’s Music Education is too important to be minimized or overlooked.

Articles and lists of why children need to be learning music are easily found on the net.

Everything from improved brains to social and educational benefits.  So we can conclusively establish that learning to play a musical instrument is vital for everyone.

Yet, educational authorities have allowed music to be marginalized in many schools.

It seems kids have stopped listening to classical music or learning to play an orchestral instrument?  And apparently, 75% of high school students in the US never or rarely take lessons in arts or music. This is not looking good.

I would like to see every school with orchestras, bands, choirs and a good supply of musically competent teachers.  Because there’s nothing like enjoying an orchestra playing your favorite music to help you feel great as it rebuilds you from the inside out.

Anyway, what does Richard Gill the highly respected advocate for Children’s Music Education say?

“Don’t be fooled into thinking that because children are listening to pop music at school they are receiving a music education.  Indeed, just listening to music of any kind is not music education. What’s more if you peel away the pop jargon, the music the kids are listening to is essentially a simple melody – lots of rhythm and just a waste of time.”

Call me grumpy perhaps, but I have to say, nothing annoys me more than seeing children choosing entertainment through technology.

For instance, kids on a device. IPhone, iPad, spending time scrolling through Facebook and Pinterest images while sorting out twitter feeds.

And there is more.  In general education, formal learning is under fire.  Have you read about the  growing attitudes of some groups of children towards learning in general.  A ten year old said this in our local newspaper.

“You Don’t Do School and you just live and learn things…I do whatever I feel like I want to do.”

Mmmm – he will struggle learning music with this attitude.  Music is a privilege and a joy but does include attitudes of commitment and hard work.

So!  How can we motivate kids to Learn To Play Music?  And, how do we motivate the reluctant ones to do so?

Perhaps we might learn something from Youth Sports?

Many children participate in youth sports each year?  Viewed as a rite of passage in a child’s development, parents believe that youth sports are good for their kids.

If the clichés that permeate sports broadcasts and locker room speeches are to be believed, sports participation teaches children the value of hard work, builds character, and develops future leaders.

Young children follow and like their sporting heroes and want to be as good as them.

I’m not going to beat about the bush.  I think it’s time we considered this a model for Children’s Music Education?  Finding music heroes for children to choose to like and follow?  Asking this question: ‘Who is your absolute favourite classical musician?’ 

The real problem is so often children don’t know what music they don’t know about! The music they haven’t heard.

They don’t know what they’re missing until they hear it.  And, by tapping into their inner core that loves music, and selecting music outside their experience which will inspire, encourage and motivate, kids can be encouraged to turn around for another look or listen or both.  And then it’s: “Oh! I lOVE this music!”

As a former teacher and musician I realise that Kids think classical music is all too complicated and long.   My conversation with Kids can go a little bit like this.

“Oh! Chrissy!  You actually like Classical Music?  Oh I’ll never listen to Classical Music!  I don’t like it at all” 

“Classical Music” I reply, “should be a grand excuse for stepping out of the world to share exquisite moments of sheer bliss.  There’s the have to have music you love to listen to, over and over again.  And the magnificent music that keeps us spellbound – the music that you don’t want to ever end.”

As my friend Ginny says: “With classical music you never know what you’re going to get.  Some concerts are so exquisite I have to stop myself sobbing out loud.”

Teach Kids Music!

Anyway, moving on.  Whether kids play an instrument, sing along, or enjoy the music played by others, every child deserves an adult who will understand how a child can become the very best they can possibly be.

To be sure, teachers who patiently sit through countless music recitals and question their sanity at encouraging those trumpet or violin lessons need do so no longer.  A musical moment shared with even one other person, is a treasure that exists at no other time, in no other way.

To be honest I believe the way forward is in ‘Live Music’ being a part of everyone’s day to day.  Yet it is not for the majority of people. So why be part of it?  Why not we need to ask?”

Stephen P Brown says: “Think about what your plans are tonight or this weekend. Are there simply not enough concerts?  Yes – I did just say that.”

When most people think of classical music they think of an orchestra at a large concert hall, but music is far greater than being confined to an exotic square box for a night out once a month or twice a year When someone comes home from work without anything in the calendar (i.e. kids’ sports or band practice, etc.), what do they do? They think of going to a movie, or a restaurant. Perhaps visit a museum at the weekend, or a walk in the park. Some like to annoy a neighbour or family, whilst others potter in the garden.

The more concerts we host, the more they will enter people’s minds; the more the press will include them in the “what to do” listings online and in their papers; the more they will be accessible at times and places more convenient than now. The more concerts you arrange, even for a handful of people, the more music grows to become an essential part of their lives, and at the moment that is truly a God-given gift that most people are missing out on.

Now, hold that thought!  On this theme of ‘Go to a concert’  Everyone likes Street Concerts!

And, what can be more exciting for most people than the involvement in sharing live music, whether it be classical, jazz or pop!

Which brings me to the very recent street concert in Sydney.  “Visions of Vienna”

The sails of the Sydney Opera House were alive with moving images of paintings by famous Austrian artists. And the music presented in the Opera House Concert Hall by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Austrian Conductor Ola Rudner was a colourful selection of polkas, waltzes and marches.   As the music played the people in the street began to dance.  It was wonderful, colourful and glamorous!

I think it’s time we found new and innovative ways to make music training more widely available to young people, and to start this during childhood.

When his Auntie left him a piano in her will, Welsh singer, Aled Jones decided he  wanted to learn to play Beatles Songs on his very own piano.  Needless to say this intriguing beginning began his career with the end result – Aled’s first self-titled album by the time he was 11.

We’ve reached the beginning of the end.

Which brings me to Kids’ Educational Stories about Music.  You see, I can’t resist the opportunity to once again mention my children’s books. Just thought I’d throw in a plug for it while we’re all here.

Classical music!  Coffee and a good book!

Sounds like a plan!

Cheers Chrissy

I keep bumping into young parents wanting their kids to learn music.

And others who wish they could play the flute, or cello, or some other musical instrument.

Some talk about how much they regret giving up learning music, when they had the opportunity as a child.  And isn’t it curious that people never say they’re pleased they gave up playing a musical instrument.  Or that they consider life is so much better for not playing it. Funny that!*

So, if you’re the sort of person who loves topics to pay attention to, then consider my list of music favorites.

Explain what Music is!  In your own words.

Such a simple question!  Most of us can respond by saying, “well I know it when I hear it.”  

But here’s the thing.  Music is invisible but, is one of the greatest forces in the world. Deep inside us all is an awareness of that elusive something we call music.

Here’s the other thing.  We all share an irresistible impulse to make music.  You’re sceptical?  Anyone of us can tap our feet to music and join in to singing when it’s someone’s birthday and the cake comes out.  Or on a sunny afternoon watching Cricket.

“It was at the Gabba during the 2010 2011 Ashes series.  There was a men’s choir embedded in the thicket of the Barmy Army and they sang a haunting rendition of the popular English hymn Jerusalem, which wafted across the ground, the crowd and up to heaven on a sunny Brisbane day.” So says Phil Brown in The Courier Mail.

You’ll be interested to learn that in 1994 Peter Desain of Radboud University in the Netherlands and Henkjan Honing of the University of Amsterdam hooked up a shoe to a computer,  and they found what many studies since have demonstrated: that to get a computer to find the beat in even something as plodding and steady as most national anthems you have to teach it some pretty sophisticated music theory.

 Why Teach Kids Music?

There’s no end to the discussions around why we should experience the most complicated and beautiful music mankind has created.  Because, in a nutshell, Music is unbelievably powerful – unfathomably deep – able to reach into our very souls and touch our inner beings.

“In time, music would become essential to my existence, the heartbeat and oxygen of my artistic, emotional and spiritual life.”

This quote from Josephine Dickinson, poet and musician who has been deaf since childhood. Her work has appeared in The New Yorker and The Poetry Review, among others.

During the Christmas holidays I stumbled upon the fascinating book “ Cadence “by Emma Ayres.  Emma is a professional musician with a fascinating story to tell and she tells it so well. She is remarkably insightful on music and why we desire it so much. Her wit, observation and candour as she cycles her way from England to Hong Kong accompanied by her violin, inspired my blog today.

Sting the Pop Musician once said that being a musician saved him from a life of crime and wastefulness.  “But music opened a secret door to a shelter where people listened and were kind.”

When music allows us to perceive time in a shared way, we sense our commonality with others more strongly.  For instance, experiences at concerts, where audiences clap along at a performance, and clubs and religious services where lots of people move together to a beat often create a powerful sense of bonding.

Even on social media we are invited to list our musical preferences and pick out a playlist.

We need to re-educate ourselves on how we ‘Teach Kids Music’

Trent, my Veterinarian, hated learning the violin!  He gave up after a year because of those shrill e string sounds it was capable of creating.

“On a scale of 1 to 10, how much did I enjoy learning music? 1 being the least, and 10 the most?

“If you had asked me that question a few years back, Trent laughs, “I’d have lied” he said. “My real answer would have been way too embarrassing to admit.  I really wanted to play trumpet, but Ma already had a violin in our ‘good room ‘”

But, still he wants his young daughter to learn a musical instrument!  But which one he asked, leaning over my anxious German Shepherd.  ‘Please not the violin.’

Trent understands despite his experiences that something happens to your heart when you play an instrument you love.

Most adults are aware that little Paul John or Daphne Anne will not probably play in Carnegie Hall or even grace city auditoriums.  But despite this, and knowing that being a parent of a music student involves some expense, unbelievable shrieking and hissing noises, and constant encouragement, still parents persist in asking me what musical instrument should their young child be learning and where can they find good teachers.

I’ve read a lot of comments on the net in regard to how early a child should learn an instrument, and whether kids should have formal or play structured learning.  It seems there is no right answer.  But playing music in a group means you get to play with other kids and the group dynamics of sharing and playing music creates musical magic.

Find a Cool Teacher

A boring teacher will have Kids playing the same old stuff over and over again until everyone is SO bored and everyone wants to stop the music!

You know the best thing any music teacher can do is to be overflowing with encouragement. Somebody kind.  Someone who can inspire a child into practising, into looking for a better sound, and into wanting to be good.

About the Music Practice!

Hey there Mums and Dads and Grandparents.

Most kids require an adult to assist them in the process of when and how they practise.

Ever noticed the more you nag kids to practise, the less likely they are to do it.  Far better, in my opinion, to encourage kids to organise their day with music practice becoming everyday and pleasurable. This must not be left to chance. Nope as a responsible adult you cannot hope that the routine of practice will just happen.

I know, I know, sure there are some kids with enough motivation to hit the practice room.  And yet, too many parents, and shame shame even music teachers, will let kids decide for themselves when and if to practise.  Sort of anything goes, any time of day.

Oh, they tell me, it’s best this way.  But it’s not.  Not even really!

And still speaking of Teaching Kids’ Music.   Sing together and be involved with the lessons and the practice.  Watch them play at every opportunity.  And at every opportunity take children to concerts.

The question I’m so often asked is why we need to Learn to Read Music.

So you can play by ear and sound good??

Have you heard this silly joke?

How do you get a guitarist to stop playing?

Put sheet music in front of him/her.

Music can be complicated  And what about those key changes, colour requirements, main tunes and harmonies?

Again I love Emma’s description of reading music as somewhat like reading a good map.  It shows me where I am going, how to stay with my companions on this journey, what speed I should be travelling and how to turn the sharp corners.

We are all in this together.  And learning music should be such a fun journey.

Who will agree with me?

Cheers Chrissy

*Words borrowed from Emma….

Hi there! This post couldn’t be written any better!
Reading through this post reminds me of my previous room mate!
He always kept talking about this. I will
forward this page to him. Pretty sure he will have a good read.

Many thanks for sharing!

Fun Children’s Books

What can I say about Kids’ Music that hasn’t already been said?

Well, how about some words of wisdom from Charlie Brown. [Peanuts, by Schulz]

“The way I see it, as soon as a baby is born, he should be issued a banjo!”

You’re lucky to get a blog at all this month because recently I found myself, partner in tow, accepting an invitation to sail away on a rather large cruise ship for a ‘holiday’ based on a Classical Music theme. I thought this might happen one day, and obviously we had to go!

Was it worth it?

We absolutely loved it. It was loads of fun. There we were on board listening to superb musicians playing, as the ship swayed, and rocked and rolled.

And, for those of you who showed such interest in the performers.  Actually, my friend Ginny.  She demanded to know who the performers were, and did I think they were as good as the brochure said  “You know, the shiny one, with its glossy photos and over use of capitals.”

Well Ginny, flip through this amazing list of performers!

The evening performances were hosted by the very entertaining Guy Noble, all-round musical entertainer, who conducts, speaks and writes about music.

Jane Cho, a solo rock – violinist with an extensive Classical Music International background, was a personal favourite of mine.

Wow!  Can this girl play!

And, Colin Lane was also a huge favourite.  He’s the ‘Lano’ from Lano & Woodley.

Tommy Fleming, unquestionably one of Ireland’s most successful entertainers, took us on a musical journey sharing the most beautiful Irish songs and music.  As Bishop Desmond Tu Tu has pointed out – ‘That voice is truly an instrument of passion.’

‘The 7 Sopranos’ delighted the audiences with Opera and Musical Classics from around the world, and David Hobson & Marina Prior, superb concert singers, soloists and winners of numerous awards, shared wonderful solos and duet selections from Opera and Musical Theatre.

Of particular fascination was Jonathan Welch, “The Choir Man” who thrilled a large number of passengers with his invitation to produce an on-board Choir of outstanding quality.  And yep, he did.  Known as a multi award winning singer and conductor,  Jonathan is particularly recognised for his outstanding commitment to working with homeless communities.

And I can’t speak  highly enough of Simon Tadeschi, one of Australia’s most renowned and sought after pianists.  Such a crowd favourite as he wowed us with both classical music and jazz performances.

And, what’s not to love about Michael Falzon, singer soloist with Symphony Orchestras across Australia, Cheryl Baker, a fine soprano, and of course the gorgeous Teddy Tahu Rhodes.  Teddy has a long list of awards, including an ARIA. Elaine Paige, popped in for the ride – sail – such an impressive actress, singer with bedazzling awards for her singing, acting and producing.

And everyone appreciated the antics of the international Italian tenor Antonia Monti, Tenors Undercover, and La Forza the world class Musical Theatre performers.

This was without doubt a Music Superfest!

Music is such a rich experience and everyone should know as much about music as they can!

And in the words of Albert Einstein:

“If I were not a Physicist, I would probably be a Musician. I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music. I get most of my joy in life out of music.”

Recently, I read an article by Mike Colman, about a programme “Don’t Stop The Music “started by a musician named James Rhodes.

In essence the programme is involved with the donation of musical instruments, no longer used by their owners, to primary school children in underprivileged areas in London. And it seems that a warehouse in West London is overflowing with donated musical instruments being serviced and readied for use. A lot of them come with notes from the original owners wishing the future musicians all the best.

One reads: ‘Learning how to make music changed my life, and I hope you have as much fun as I did.’

However, it is not only – What We Learn but How We Learn.

Lex Hall, writing in the forum The Australian Review November 2014 –reflects that he has come to the realisation that “if my dream of being a guitar virtuoso is to come true then professional intervention is required.”  He adds that – “musical ability, like arithmetic or painting, was something I always assumed I didn’t possess.  I was resigned to being a spectator.”

After some considered thought, Lex concludes that the secret to success is ‘application.’ “Some are talented, some apply themselves.  The greats possess both”

Of course,  it’s not surprising that with Christmas almost upon us, I should take this opportunity to remind readers of the best gifts for kids.  Children’s Books!

 So, parents and teachers keen to try new things – Get excited!

But, who needs Children’s Books about Music?  I’m glad you asked!

Our children’s books are designed to engage, educate and inspire. Old fashioned story telling that sneaks a musical education in the background. 

It’s been an incredible journey since our first Print Books were published.  The ideas originating from my experiences teaching Kids’ Music, and, telling fun stories all about bush animals encountering Rhythm & Music Notes, Musical Instruments, and Music in all its genres from Classical to Jazz.

The Audio Storybooks for children have been one of our most successful products to date.

Move over Peter and the Wolf as we introduce ‘Wombat’s Musical Adventure’.  This much loved children’s story involves a little Wombat searching for just the right musical instrument to play. One that is not too big and not too long.  Not too difficult and not too tall.  And not too heavy and not too loud.

The popular series of Chapter Books in  “The Musical Adventures of Professor Anacrusis, is  completely irresistible.  And what child doesn’t want to know what happens when Pocket the kangaroo, discovers two Music Trains and shares rhythm games with best friends Koe Koala and Wombat.

Our Story Books for Young Children ages  3 -6 years of age, are engaging, fun to read stories, for children to explore musical instruments through the adventures of Albert in “Albert’s New Friendly Everyday Song” and Wombat in “Wombat’s Musical Adventure.”

Award Winning Series of Children’s Books. 

WE WON!

We have been named among the best in the Mom’s Choice Awards for Print Books & Audio Books, with one Gold & Three Silver Awards for Children’s Education.  Honouring excellence in family – friendly media, products and services.

 “Music is a way that students can experience the incredible marvel of being a human.”

Said Pablo Casals – cellist and conductor. I couldn’t agree more.

Catch up with more of our music news in 2015.

Cheers Chrissy

“We believe in the Power of Music and the need for Everyone on the Globe to Sing, Play, or even just Listen to Music”

These are the words of J R Digger MacDougall.  Chair and CEO of Sing Canada Harmony.

Music is, and must continue to be, a Vital Part of the Culture of every Global Community.

 Music is enriching, invigorating and one of the greatest joys in life.  It’s alive and immediate.  Energetic and full on emotionally, not to mention the health and education benefits, and social and intellectual benefits.

Quite irreplaceable.

All those who love to be involved in the world of music know the discoveries never end.  There is always a new piece of music to be played, or listened to, or simply shared around.

We need to understand the importance of Playing Music as part of a child’s social life and their engagement with their peers.

Up until fairly recently, most kids, played an instrument or sang in a choir. This was before we lost some music education programmes in primary schools.  And pop culture became the mega-money-making industry it is today.

 Kids love to sing.

It’s very exciting and the good news is anyone can do it.  Everybody can sing.

Although natural talent exists, most people have to work at singing. Vocal technique can be learned, much like learning to ride a bike or driving a car.   With fun Kids’ Concerts to sing in, Christmas Carols to feature in.

Did you know that in one of Fred Astaire’s first screen tests, an executive wrote: “Can’t sing. Can’t act. Slightly balding. Can dance a little.” Astaire went on to become a Hollywood and Broadway legend.

Well, what about we just Listen and not Learn to Play a Musical Instrument?

Music connects us to our fellow musicians so we become part of something ‘bigger than me.’

Not surprisingly, something wonderful happens when you give children the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument and teach them to play in a group.  It creates a special bond, a magical pleasure of playing together, with a sense of something beyond the lesson, beyond the practice. Each child is party to producing something fun and powerful and they can begin to feel rather important within the group.  How good does this feel?

There’s nothing like the sound of live musicians all having fun with melodies, and harmonies and rhythm, and ‘all that jazz!’

On The Other Hand, It Is Not What We Learn but How We Learn. 

When it comes to playing a musical instrument, dealing with one’s inevitable mistakes is also part of a musician’s education.  You hit a wrong note, but the next note that you play after hitting that wrong note – is followed up with the correct one.  This learning process enhances our ability to pick up mistakes and fix them quickly.  As musicians master their instruments, they are developing body and mind in the process of ‘Playing Music.’

Choosing what sort of musical instrument you, or your child, would like to play has never been more interesting.  Finding instruments that demand to be played, so that once you start learning – you won’t want to stop. Hey, move aside piano still trying to stay in the game.  And hello cool oboe.

I have played a number of musical instruments and I know how to sound ‘good’ on the flute. Maybe I exaggerate!  But I remember the time when I realized that my name was written on this shiny silver musical instrument.  It was love at first sight.

Trisha, a busy parent, discussing her son’s music lessons, reflects,  “ I was never pushed to learn the violin properly and I really regret this lost opportunity.”

She sighs.  “Troy wants to Play the Trumpet.” But he needs time to absorb the musical knowledge required to read and play his trumpet.’  And, little sister Helen keeps asking those big questions!  “How do you  count and read and listen and play all at once?”   

I am sympathetic to anyone who struggles with their first music notes!  It’s not easy.  But here’s the thing though. To her credit, Trisha has searched for and found a trumpet teacher.  One who does more than teach.  One who will inspire…fill with enthusiasm…teach a love for music…makes you get stuff done!

Speaking of Music!

Most kids regard the theory of music as a dull subject and to be avoided at all costs. But not when you teach children music by taking technical musical matters and making them fun & interesting through Children’s Books.

Come on, don’t pretend that you didn’t consider that  a Blog like this just shrieks out – ‘mention your Kids’ Stories about Music.‘  You know.  Those Children’s Stories that sneak a Music Education in the background.

Well, our books are quirky,  but  educational, funny  and fascinating as children journey together with  bush animals having musical adventures and learning about Musical Instruments, Rhythm and Music Notes.

Books for Children adding huge value when Teaching Kids Music. And, filled with just enough knowledge to make the cut as a valued resource for Children’s Music Education.

Audio Books, Print Books, E books formats through Amazon & Audible.com

I know.  Enough said.

Frankly, Music can be one of the Best Things You Ever Learn.  Or Teach a Child.

I Want To Play the Tuba!

Did you know that 20% of Kids learn to play music?  70% of Adults Wish They had. And yes, according to the survey by the Australian Council for the Arts it should be more than a recorder in school!

So, What Can Music Do For Me?

“It’s not possible to have life without food, and it’s not life without music.”  – Roberto Fonseca, Jazz Pianist.

Music has benefits beyond just playing around and having fun with friends. This is kind of a big deal, and, there is a flood of sites on the net right now, confirming why we all should be learning music.

In my opinion, one of the best sites is the very polished and informative presentation by Anita Collins.

The Joy of Music

Anita explains the fireworks that go off in musicians’ brains when they play, and examines some of the long-term positive effects of this mental workout. “When you listen to music, multiple areas of your brain become engaged and active. But when you actually play an instrument, that activity becomes more like a full-body brain workout.”

Ok.  We’re all convinced.  But how do we actually get involved with the process of Learning Music?

“Would you love to make music? And would you love to sing?”  Ask a child these questions and the answer is YES!

We all have an instinctive understanding of music.  And, this is superbly demonstrated by Bobby McFerrin in this fascinating link.

Our body and voice are the first instruments to be played and mastered, and singing traditional lullabies and nursery rhymes to children helps prepare a child’s ear, voice and brain for language.

Richard Gill tells how children can sing and reproduce pitch, through songs, nursery rhymes, and games.

And let me give you a fun way of Introducing Rhythm.

Word Games.  In our primary classes kids learnt simple rhythms by clapping the sounds of favourite words.

• ‘Pie’ receives one clap.
• ‘Do-nut’  two claps.
• ‘Helicopter’ has the grand total of four claps.
• And the very mysterious ‘shush’  also has only one clap.
• Even very young students can cope with the word ‘yum-my’ said very quickly to equal one clap, with 2 halves.

And, these simple games can progress into Movement Rhythm Games as children learn to say, clap and walk rhythms in combination.

So, does this make a difference?

I have to tell you it works marvellously.  Kids in near hysterics all laughing and clapping with ‘yummy donuts, helicopters, pies and shushes’.  And, they get it!

But, What about Musical Instruments?

In my experience all kids love an opportunity to interact with musical instruments.

Kids and their favourite Classical Music instruments

Not sure? Check out these Kids and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra at Southbank.

With children under five years of age, keyboards, pianos, recorders, ukuleles are obvious choices.

Having said this, my passion is for children of every age to have experience of a wide range of orchestral instruments. To discover whether they would like to learn a classical musical instrument, and if so, which one.

In our “Kindy” classes, youngsters did enjoy having ‘close up’ time with saxophones, flutes, clarinets and trumpets.  And, some children changed favourites from drums and guitar, to the idea that a trumpet or trombone would be very cool to play.

If a child chooses an orchestral instrument then parents need to consider that it is advantageous for young students to have lessons with skilled teachers who can teach them good technique.

I know.  I know, so that’s my personal opinion!

Even for Lorraine who wants to learn to be a singer and use a microphone with wee diamonds on it!

Learn about The Orchestra?

This is a serious question.  And, to be frank, call me a bit old-fashioned, but my answer is I believe in every kid, and adult, having the opportunity to experience the wonder, the challenge, the magic, the commitment of  the orchestra. The ones with lots of strings, and brass, and woodwinds.  And yes much timpani.

In my opinion you can’t get too much of the full experience of classical musicians playing, and sharing the exchange of musical energy between the orchestra, and the energy from people in the audience.

Not only that, it seems to me that we need to learn to understand classical music, in our schools, in our homes.  Most big centres host fun, engaging programs, designed for children and you will usually find free concerts, outdoor concerts and Kids’ Concerts.

But Not All Kids Will Love Classical Music. 

It’s easy to see why kids think they don’t like the classical genre of music, if they have little or no experience or understanding of classical music and orchestral instruments.

But if they don’t know,  they don’t like it….. How will they know if they do?

Kids, I have come to discover, have interesting thoughts about classical music.  Young Breanna, for example, listening to the slow movement of the Mozart Clarinet Concerto said with a huge grin “Gramma, that music makes my eyes water”. And Jeffry listening to James Galway playing Bach thinks the flute sounds like a giraffe!  And I’m like, really?

Here’s the thing we all have a unique response to music! In our listening and our playing.  Even unique instruments, like bottles.  Enjoy this link of the ‘Bottle Boys’ playing bottles!

Do Mobiles rule over Music?

It’s fair to say many folk don’t recognise the benefits of a music education at any age.  The trouble is many families are very busy these days, and, so often have no time to involve Music Education with children.

With modern technology, children are being asked to grow up all too quickly, and it seems that listening to and playing musical instruments is fading from daily life.

But, get excited!   Now there’s an App that translates The Meaning Of Classical Music! Yep! Now as a concert goer, you can leave your mobile phone ON!

Have you ever wanted some insight on the piece being performed? Then this little gem of technology is for you! It’s called LiveNote™

Now this is a good idea, and, the Philadelphia Orchestra gave a free College Concert for students, who gave rave reviews for the experience.

You’re never too young to appreciate Music, so begin to listen to Classical Music, but listen to a lot of Other Music as well.

And if attending real concerts is not your thing, why YouTube is my new best friend.  I could go on and on here but will leave you with some of my favourites to share with children.

Cheers Chrissy

Favourite One – Trumpet Fun with young Geoffrey Gallante

Favourite Two – The Typewriter  Symphony Orchestra

Favourite Three – Beautiful Oboe

Have you ever wondered what life would be like without Classical Music?

Kids and their favourite Classical Music instruments

Anyone teaching children music will tell you that sometimes they ask tricky questions.

I can remember being challenged by a 9 year old boy with these questions.

” So, what will listening to Classical Music do for me?  And why must I play this stuff?”

Fair enough!  I can find reasons for being involved with Classical Music.

How about it excites me.  Cheers me up.  Expands my experience of the universe.  Actually contains the secrets of the universe.

And, in the memorable words from Paul Berman, Senior Editor of The New Republic.….

“If children never experience the power, the beauty, the wonder, the hugeness of classical music, how are they supposed to understand?

 The true magic of music should never be compromised. You will find yourself in the presence of a majestic something-or-other that is beyond all something-or-others. Feelings of triumph will swell your heart.

You will weep. You will glimpse the musical structure, or, at any rate, you will recognize that a structure does exist. You will be in awe.

This combination of emotions and thoughts is something that cannot be evoked in words or equations. The experience is accessible only musically. In the world of music, I dwell anywhere I want to dwell.”

So many children live their lives surrounded by popular music genres all clamoring for their attention.  Best talent, best guitar, best voice, best rap, best jazz and hip hop, best group, best this – best that!

Even best heavy edged music with electronic and machine age technology creating interesting sounds.

Did you know a grinder is an instrument that sets a sound scene?  Well, I learned this from Graham Crabb.  PWEI Mark II….[‘Pop Will Eat Itself’]

Kids don’t pursue music they’ve never heard.

You know, I never thought I’d like Classical Music. But it’s cool music!

So, tell me, what has happened to good old fashioned classroom music teaching on a very regular basis?

Now that was a time.  Chatting to Kids about the thing called Classical Music.

And who really cares?

Well, I do!

If children have never been taught – how are they supposed to know?  Ask primary school children to distinguish some differences between an oboe and a trumpet.  It’s unlikely that they will know what to say.  Unless of course, Dad plays trumpet and big sister plays oboe.

Recently I walked past a Children’s Music School and read their street sign.

“Kids Who learn Music Are Smarter“

Agggh!  Am I OK with this?  Hardly!

Everyone agrees this message is flawed!

Signs give out signals.  And it’s quite baffling to me that music playing and listening, can be toned down to such a narrow perspective.

Plato says: “Music is a more potent instrument than any other, for education, because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul.” 

There’s another issue.  It seems that Independent Music Schools are now being faced with the threat of having to shut down valued centres because of the shortage of qualified music teachers.

Music data is so easy for kids to find on the net, and it seems that technology, Skype and online directories may be a preferred way to learn music.

Yes, OK.  All those sad sentiments about kids needing to learn music.  And, busy stressed parents going…..”Please.  Any kid who wants to play flute, or that squeaky clarinet or loud drums.  Just get on with it.”

Surely, as long as kids are able to read and write twitter messages under 140 characters, they can sort out what music they prefer – themselves?  Or learn to play some instrument online?

Uh oh!  I hear the sounds of music educators choking over breakfast.  And so we should be!

But wait.  There’s more.  It seems that within a number of music societies there is a grave concern regarding the general capabilities of today’s classroom music teachers.  In regard to poorly qualified teachers being controlled by the kids.

Renee shared her story.  The children in her primary classes couldn’t concentrate for long enough to study music, so she toned down the learning experience to what the kids wanted to do!

If you fall into the “we don’t see the need to listen to, or like, Classical Music” camp, then my guess is you will enjoy Mark Oppenheimer’s amusing anecdotes.

“Should children study violin – or rather, be forced to study violin?  Or forced to study ballet?

Mark Oppenheimer asks this question in the urgent manner of a dad fretting over his daughter’s education.  

He tells us that, as it happens, his daughter is delighted by her own weekly after-school sessions on the violin and at ballet class, and would like the classes to continue, and this is fine by him. Still, what if, one day, her patience runs out and she wishes to stop? Should he respond by saying, no, those lessons are mandatory? Or allow her to quit?

“Now it is clearly the case that if nobody studied ballet or violin, we would have no professional orchestras or ballet companies. That would be a great loss. But for such art forms to persist, it is only necessary that the most eager and gifted students persist in their studies. I’m all for lots of children trying classical music or dance, but we no more need millions of fourth-year violin students than we need millions of fourth-year origami students. We all love paper cranes, I think, but we aren’t rushing to give our children to the cause.

Before the twentieth century, there was a good reason for anyone to study music: If you couldn’t make the music yourself, then you would rarely hear it. Before the radio and the phonograph, any music in the house was produced by the family itself. So it made sense to play fiddle, piano, jug, whatever. And before urbanization and the automobile, most people did not have easy, regular access to concerts. If music was to be a part of your daily life, it had to be homemade. There is no special virtue in knowing how to play the violin, unless you have a special gift for the violin. Otherwise, you’re learning the same valuable lessons that you’d get from karate class, or from badminton. Or from endless hours of football.”

In response, the thoughts of Paul Berman, Senior Editor of The New Republic,  make fascinating reading, as Paul doesn’t let Mark off the hook so easily.

“I have been a Mark Oppenheimer fan for many years, and this is precisely because of the lively and warm qualities that he has brought to his present rumination on violin and ballet lessons. I applaud. But I am not convinced.

These are good questions to ask because, in their family-routine fashion, they allow him to touch on a bigger matter, which has to do with classical music. To wit: Is there something special about classical music? Does the study of classical music offer something that cannot be found in the study of (Oppenheimer lists these alternatives) folk or pop music? Or origami? Or auto mechanics?

The study of any or all of these things would confer obvious benefits.  Why see anything uniquely valuable and overwhelmingly important in the study of violin and ballet, instead?

Oppenheimer happily acknowledges that, for all his skepticism about violin lessons, he loves Mendelssohn’s violin concerto, and he considers that people with suitable gifts are right to plunge into the kind of music education that will allow them to perform such a thing.

But let me ask: What is Mendelssohn’s violin concerto? It is one of those nineteenth-century violin pieces that manage to express a combination of the plaintive, the grand, and the mathematical. If you are listening to a performance of the Mendelssohn in the right spirit, or, God knows, if you are yourself the performer, you will find yourself in the presence of a majestic something-or-other that is beyond all something-or-others. Feelings of triumph will swell your heart. You will weep. You will glimpse the musical structure, or, at any rate, you will recognize that a structure does exist. You will be in awe. This combination of emotions and thoughts is something that cannot be evoked in words or equations. The experience is accessible only musically. In the world of music, I dwell anywhere I want to dwell. Music has liberated me from the iron bars of our present moment.

I can imagine that my argument may seem over-the-top. But I have no way to know. Those childhood violin studies of mine have shaped my adult ear and brain, and, when I listen to Mendelssohn or to any of the greats, I naturally respond in ways that are encouraged by the grand tradition. I do not know what it is to be a person without access to that tradition, and I can only picture a lack of access as a kind of poverty.”

I’m Convinced!  I love listening to Classical Music and being a Classical Music – Musician!

And all is not lost.  A large group of young musicians I talked to recently, spoke of their love of classical music, while having trouble determining which composer was dearest to their heart, Bach or Vivaldi, Beethoven or Mozart.  And this love is ongoing and developing as they study their instrument of choice.

Children’s Book about the Joy of Music

“What is Music?  Is It More Than Just A Noise??”

Love to read your stories about teaching children music.  And, let me know what Classical Music means to you>

cheers Chrissy

Teach about Orchestral Instruments through Audio Books About Music?

Teach Kids about Orchestral Instruments

It used to be said that we should be teaching children music from the first years of school.  And so recently,  I searched on the net for anything related to children’s audio books teaching about orchestral instruments, and basic music theory.

And, I noted that there still seems to be a dearth of children’s fun educational audio storybooks about music.

Apart from a couple of great exceptions.

“ Peter and the Wolf” !  The old 1936 audio story where we get to hear different orchestral instruments “

According to Wikipedia, Peter and the Wolf (Russian: Петя и волк, Petya i volk), Op. 67, is a composition written by Sergei Prokofiev in 1936 in the USSR. It is a children’s story (with both music and text by Prokofiev), spoken by a narrator accompanied by the orchestra.

But, hey!  1936!  What about 2014?

The next best offer is 1946.  “The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.”

The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra. [Also according to Wikipedia] This  1946 musical composition by Benjamin Britten with a subtitle Variations and Fugue on a Theme of Purcell, was originally commissioned for an educational documentary film called Instruments of the Orchestra, directed by Muir Mathieson and featuring the London Symphony Orchestra.

Yeah well, let me tell you, this, the  ‘Young Persons Guide’ won’t wear with the youngsters in my neighborhood.  They want fun.  Fantasy.  And stories with huge personality.

Anyway, where am I going with this?  Thanks for asking!

I have to admit this blog is really about the Children’s Audio Books produced by Chrissy Tetley, for Music On The Bookshelf.  And, I spent too much energy contemplating exactly what form this blog should take.

I sought advice from my friend Troy who plays trombone, on how to announce that these audio books are ‘cool’ for today’s kids.  Should I go the softly, softly approach and simply describe in yummy detail why these audio books are so grand and perfect for your child.  Or do it Troy’s way.  “Hey!  Just tell it as it is.”

If you haven’t listened to our delightful children’s audio books and stories about music, now is the time to start!

 “Music On The Bookshelf’  has a growing collection of Children’s Audio Books.  Irresistibly engaging musical stories celebrated for the humorous quirky characters, wonderful orchestral music selections and filled with just enough information to be considered a valued resource for children’s music education.

Have you heard this awful joke about music and kids?  A young child says to his mother, ‘when I grow up I’d like to be a musician.’  She replies, ‘Well honey, you know you can’t do both!’

As it happens, there’s a scary truth in this silly joke.  Understanding the theory of music is hardly the ‘in thing’ to do in our primary schools today.  And, how alarming it is to learn that in some of our primary schools the role of music education has been severely downgraded.

Most kids regard the theory of music as a dull subject and to be avoided at all costs.  But, what if we take technical music matters and insert them into a ‘Kid Cool Story’, under the expert guidance of [the fictional] Professor Anacrusis and support of funny bush animals?

Now, it’s true, when I began writing stories for Music On The Bookshelf, I was committed to teaching children about orchestral instruments, rhythm and music notes.  I still believe in this endeavor.  Even more so, after the success of our children’s audio storybooks.

We take pride in producing outstanding audio books for kids.

Each audio book is considered carefully in regard to the music selection, quality of the narration and the educational music story-line.  So what’s not to love about them?

Best Children’s Audio Books!

Enjoy a great story involved with music!

We can help you here

Tell children stories about Music.

The Gold Award! Children’s Book about the Joy of Music…

“Wombat’s Musical Adventure” the children’s Audio Storybook, with it’s wonderful storytelling and lots of stunning music, has won A Gold Award from Mom’s Choice Awards.

It was a moment to make any Author proud!  And it’s good.  It’s so good!

You see, I can still recall it.  A moment of pure wonder!  My first experience of live orchestral musicians playing classical music.  And this experience has inspired these audio books for children so they too can hear and ‘like’ the sounds of orchestral instruments.

Have fun in music,

cheers Chrissy

Children’s Stories about MUSIC

Thinking hard about Kids’ Music Practice!

OK!  Big Breath. I’m going to agree with Douglas.

Only last week we met up for lunch and straight away he challenged me with this question.

“How many kids today demonstrate commitment to learning how to play a musical instrument??”

Douglas makes no bones about it.

“It’s time to simply toughen up.  We seem to be willfully toning down our expectations!  Something worth doing, is worth commitment and hard work.  Most kids have potential to become skilled, accomplished amateur or professional musicians.”

Having given the matter some thought, I agree with him.  At least a little.

Because, I too have had to listen to parents complaining that their child doesn’t like the practice part of being a musician. It happens all the time.

When a child decides to learn a musical instrument they often have visions of themselves on the world stage entertaining millions.

The story usually begins with one of the children pestering you for a musical instrument to play.  And straight away you are faced with the big question.  Is there time in our hurried and controlled timetabled day to fit in music lessons?

Lots of very earnest talks follow at length.  About how they will so love it.  And the commitment to practice music with real enthusiasm.

In an adult’s mind, the child might be a huge success, making records, winning contests and wowing the world at large with their brilliance.  I mean no parent spends precious time and money unless they feel that this effort will be very much appreciated.

But!  What so often happens, when the reality of music practice, learning, and more practice sets in, hopes and dreams descend into crisis mode, and then all the parent can hope for is that the expensive instrument can be sold on E Bay, to at least cover costs.

It may be poor consolation that it’s often the case that kids who reject one musical  instrument will really latch onto another.  A viola student sent me a text saying that ‘you don’t get many chicks playing viola, so I’m changing to double bass.’  Hmmm!

We’ve all heard this same story too often.  Time poor parents with the immensely challenging task of  supporting and encouraging today’s kids as they learn music.  And those parents and teachers, who spend the child’s music practice in survival mode, tell me they don’t want the battles with the wannabee musicians with a ‘know- it – all’ attitude, so the mediocre ‘thing’ is now acceptable.

Consider this.  Let’s say we get stern and ignore the anguished cries and persevere with the plan to learn to play this chosen musical instrument?

Not sure?  What’s the worst that can happen?  Nothing maybe.  The instrument sells on E Bay.  Or, on the positive side, the child buckles down and soon finds it very interesting.

I know you’ll find this hard to believe, but in my experience, the child that perseveres  discovers that being a musician is a very nice place to be.

Recently, I happened upon this clip of the members of’ ‘The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra’ with guitarist Justin Firefly Clarke performing the track ‘The Ride’.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLzPgBXHAJQ

The audience, fascinated by the skill of the musicians and the beauty and power of the music, stop in their tracks, stand quietly and share a moment in time.  But how horrible it could have been if the musicians had skimped on the practice and presented a ‘ho-hum’ performance.  Would those commuters on the Wellington station have paused to listen to  the guitar player if his fingers had picked dodgy notes?  Agggh!

Clearly this is an exaggeration, but the point is we love to hear skilled musicians playing great music.  This only comes from hard work.  Learning to play a musical instrument is a fascinating but complex task.

One of the biggest complaints from kids is that music practice is only playing those endless scales and exercises, and coping with the frustrations in the struggle to become more skilled.  It’s all a bit sad really.

The Musician’s Secret.

But dig a little deeper.  Children will want to be the best musicians they can, if they can connect with the magic of music.  And part of the uniqueness of music revolves around the musical instruments and the way in which they are performed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWNuyUYB-jA

A key insight is the importance of making music a social experience.

That there is something beyond the lesson.  Beyond the music practice.  Beyond the formal once a year concert.  That playing music is actually part of a child’s social life and is fun.

Music should be a wonderful opportunity for children to learn new skills and make new friends.  We need to teach young children about music and help them to play music.  Every child can explore the opportunites in their local musical community, sharing music with other kids at their school, their neighbors, or the niche interests of a small group.

In March 2014 In Harmony Liverpool celebrated its 5th Birthday with a spectacular, sold out concert at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NzLdyM9z5A&list=UUW3Z7B_BUzUv1VBV_g58N9A&feature=share&index=2

In Harmony is inspired by Venezuela’s El Sistema, using the unique power of music making through the symphony orchestra to transform the lives of children, their families and communities. In Harmony is centred around ensembles and seeks social change through the pursuit of musical excellence.

Not surprisingly I agree.  After reading more about El Systema and watching children learning to play their musical instruments, I find myself encouraged to think that children’s music education is still happening.

Children pick up and absorb information effortlessly, and are able to imitate musical songs and phrases, and can discriminate differences between similar notes.

Recently, many of my musical conversations have been with young parents of very young children.  Parents who recognize very profoundly that they have missed out on something huge, musically speaking, and want to rectify this in terms of their own children.

As in the case of my young friend Donna, who sings and harmonizes nursery rhymes with Chloe, her three year old daughter.  And Alyson, who has bought herself a ukulele, which she can’t play – yet – because she wants to learn to sing and play for her four month old baby.

As Donna remarked, “if you’re after an easy ride forget it.  I was one of those kids who was too lazy to try.  

I  thought I looked cool holding my violin, but I was very quick to discover different parts of my body complaining.  Sore fingers.  Sore neck. Sore back, arms and even legs. It worked.  I was never pushed to learn it properly and I really regret this lost opportunity.”

It’s not easy.  But here’s the thing though.  There’s nothing like the sound of live musicians all having fun with melodies, and harmonies and rhythm, and ‘all that jazz!’

Douglas and I loved the Glenn Miller Concert in Brisbane this week.  And even sharing coffee afterwards we had the pleasure of listening to three music students playing harp, flute and violin, beside our well placed table.  A lovely presentation and well worth listening to.

But are you thinking what I’m thinking?  Our musical conversation turned to the ‘what if they hadn’t practiced’ – and they sounded horrible?

You know the sort of thing.  The flute with a sqwark.  Scary screeching from the violin.  Or the harp player, who has no idea where he is on the music page, or what to play next!  And let’s face it.  It’s not good form if any player lags behind everybody else.

Music has different meanings for different people.

Music is unique in each person’s life. To a musician, music is their life. Music is their passion.

For others, music is a hobby, a pastime. Music is something that arouses interest and is pleasurable.

Music is a means of relaxation for some, while others simply enjoy listening to the sounds, melodies, and rhythms that music brings to their ears, minds, and hearts.

In 2010, Bobby McFerrin carved out an improvisation with an audience of 50,000 at the Sing! Day of Song in Gelsenkirchen, Germany – See more at:

http://journalofmusic.com/focus/connection-full-moon#sthash.hLfgBCRQ.dpuf

You can’t touch Music…..but Music can touch you!

Mmmm!  That pretty much sums it up. And, it sure works for me listening and watching this extraordinary child playing the harp.

http://www.chonday.com/Videos/harprusialg2

I would love to hear your stories and your thoughts

Are you happy with the way we teach kids’ music in 2014?

Cheers Chrissy

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Jeffry really wants to learn music.

Jeffry’s father wants him to quit music lessons again!

Why?  Because, in his opinion, music is not worth the bother of time and energy, commitment and expense for kids in the classroom.

No.  Really? Why does he always try to make children’s music appear more difficult than it is?  Our Tuesday Night Group was deep in debate.  Kids’ Music!  So much to discuss and worry about.

We faced up to issues of teaching children music.  Because: ‘Are you aware, Jeffry’s Dad, the more kids learn, the more they want to learn.  But they need time to absorb the musical knowledge required to read and play music.’ 

There’s another problem.

What’s with the expectation that teachers who have no music training can teach classroom music.  According to my Tuesday Night colleagues, few teachers in primary schools have the ability to deliver any sort of music programme to their students.

There seems to be more emphasis on getting computers rather than pianos into schools.  Jeffry’s school doesn’t have a music technology programme, but is in the process of purchasing 6 i Macs equipped with Smart Music for the next school term.  Yeah.  we get it.

Our print media would have us believe that music is just part of “arts and entertainment”, even though it’s not!

On the positive side Billy Joel tells it as it should be.  “Music!  It’s an explosive expression of humanity.  It’s something we are all touched by.  No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves  music.“

We need to understand the importance of playing music as part of a child’s social life and their engagement with their peers.  Music connects us to our fellow musicians so we become part of something ‘bigger than me‘.   It creates a special bond, a magical pleasure of playing together, with a sense of something beyond the lesson, beyond the practice.

Since 2005, St Agnes’ Primary School* in Crumlin, Dublin, has provided all 400 children including those with special needs with a free weekly violin lesson and have formed a school orchestra; now the children’s parents and grandparents (many of them complete novices) have come together to form a Parents’ Orchestra, changing lives across several generations in a working-class area.

One of the most profound musical compositions of all time, is ‘The Quartet for the End of Time’ written by French composer Olivier Messiaen in 1940.

Messiaen was 31 years old when France entered the war against Nazi Germany. He was captured by the Germans in June of 1940, sent across Germany in a cattle car and imprisoned in a concentration camp.

He was fortunate to find a sympathetic prison guard who gave him paper and a place to compose. There were three other musicians in the camp, a cellist, a violinist, and a clarinetist, and Messiaen wrote his quartet with these specific players in mind. It was performed in January 1941 for four thousand prisoners and guards in the prison camp.

Today it is one of the most famous masterworks in the repertoire.Given what we have since learned about life in the concentration camps, why would anyone in his right mind waste time and energy writing or playing music? There was barely enough energy on a good day to find food and water, to avoid a beating, to stay warm, to escape torture. Why would anyone bother with music? And yet from the camps, we have poetry, we have music, we have visual art. It wasn’t just this one fanatic Messiaen; many, many people created art. Why?

Well, in a place where people are only focused on survival, on the bare necessities, the obvious conclusion is that art must be, somehow, essential for life. The camps were without money, without hope, without commerce, without recreation, without basic respect, but they were not without art. Art is part of survival; art is part of the human spirit, an unquenchable expression of who we are. Art is one of the ways in which we say, “I am alive, and my life has meaning.”

Jeffry likes Music Lessons.

So Jeffry’s Dad! What can I say?

Perhaps in the fine words of Plato. “To sing well and to dance well is to be well-educated.”

 cheers Chrissy

*I would like to thank Keynotes & The Journal of Music for the articles and information on which some of this blog article is based.

Children’s Books About Music

It’s that time of year again!  The pop-in to the Dentist for a quick check and clean.

Children’s Books? At the dentist?

And, let me tell you something, gone are the days when a visit to the dentist was a tough gig.

I have a dentist.  Tom.  He’s young, he’s progressive,impeccably groomed and absolutely charming.  But his words to me, “Ahh, Chrissy Chrissy, it’s been too long,” undid my resolve to not show any dramatic signs of stress.

Casual and friendly as it is, the room feels quite glam.  Despite the big airy space with big lights, gleaming surfaces, and those many tiny scary tools, carefully laid out in neat hygienic lines.

Much ado about nothing?  I think not, as I note the computer with my teeth eerily grinning at me from the screen.

Perched on a tall stool, Tom, totally absorbed in my dental welfare, chats on about flossing and how to maintain total tooth hygiene.  No pressure then.  It’s hard to imagine having more fun!  Which frankly, leads me to the subject of Tom’s background music.

Apparently, listening to music stimulates the brain to make, ‘I feel good‘ hormones, therefore the purpose being to make my visit friendly and relaxing.  Really?

But here’s the thing.  What am I really listening to?  Trying not to be a grumpy old musician, I’m a tad sensitive to music playing at me.  Pretty much.

The Playlist rolls around and I was quite fascinated with the words of some of the songs.  Like, ‘…she was in my car, when we hit that bar…’  Enough said.

And, how about ‘We all live in a yellow submarine…’  This piece was oddly reassuring.  Well, it has a chirpy beat.

And there’s lots to love about ‘Happy‘ by Pharrell to give that joyous lift.  And I do admit ‘Piano Man‘ is cool.  Thanks Billy Joel.  And I quite like Bette Midler’s song ‘You’ve Got To Have Friends.’

But, then, just as I was asking myself the big question, as in well, what sort of music do I really want to hear?  Something happened.  The playlist, played “Gabriel’s Oboe”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zL7CDcVQjbM

Music so stunningly beautiful!  And I had this compelling thought.  To produce children’s audio books about music, so children can hear how gorgeous orchestral instruments can sound.

To be frank, if learning about musical instruments and music theory is badly presented, it is boring.  Boring with a capital B.  The problem of course is children so often don’t know what music they really like.  Until, maybe they listen to something quite outside their experience, and then it’s, ‘Oh!  I LOVE this music.’  And when my young grandson heard “Gabriel’s Oboe” for the first time, he said. ‘that music makes my eyes water.’

This is why musiconthebookshelf.com specializes in print books and ebooks, and now children’s audio books for  music education.  Fun stories that teach music fundamentals to kids.  Music education for children done well, basically rocks.

Not sure what my point is?  So glad you asked.

Our stories are about animals learning music – to teach children music.  A niche market at the best.  And so I’m always interested in a plug for musiconthebookshelf.com to be noticed.

The invitation from Mom’s Choice Awards arrived out of the blue.  I remember having a friendly chat over lunch with Brad,my cello friend. And he clearly said, ‘Chrissy why don’t you do it.  I think it’s a great idea.’

It did seem like an amazing opportunity.  I visited Mom’s Choice Awards online and became quite giddy with the thought of entering this prestigious Award.  I was prepared to give this a whirl, and you know what?  It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.

So did we nail it?  You can see where this is heading, can’t you?

I’m happy to report that yes we did.  And it was just wonderful.

Such a great feeling when I realized that hey, real professionals actually read my books and liked the stories.  This gave me such a warm glow.  If you had suggested a few weeks ago, I would win a Gold Award, and two Silver Awards, in the Mom’s Choice Awards for family friendly media, products and services, I would have laughed saying, ‘Nuh, that’s not going to happen!’

Everyone at musiconthebookshelf.com is enthralled, pumped , and well….tickled pink.  Still buzzing nearly a month after receiving these prestigious awards.  And still staring in wide eyed wonder at these kids’ books about music.  Actually, I made that last bit up!

WE WON!

And in reply to that funny inquiry.  Yes, I am that music dude who made the audio book, ‘Wombat’s Music Adventure.’  Cool huh!

http://musiconthebookshelf.com/listen-to-wombats-musical-adventure/

Call me a bit old fashioned but I’m a real believer in every kid and adult having the opportunity to experience the wonder, the challenge, the magic, the commitment and the conversation about music, notes and rhythm, different musical instruments, and to consider the question – ‘what is music?’

Do you agree.  write and tell me what you think.

cheers Chrissy

 Sharing the Joy of Music in Children’s Books

These Books Won the ‘Mom’s Choice Awards’ for family friendly media, products and services?

           ‘Wombat’s Musical Adventure’ – the Audio Book‘-is a Gold Recipient of the prestigious Mom’s Choice Award.

‘Wombat’s Musical Adventure’ has been named among the best in family-friendly media, products and services by the Mom’s Choice Awards®

Buy the print & EBook through Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Wombats-Musical-Adventure-Chrissy-Tetley/dp/098729685X/

‘The Surround Sounds of Music’ – Book One in “The Musical Adventures of Professor Anacrusis” is a Mom’s Choice Awards® Silver Recipient

Buy it on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Surround-Sounds-Music-Chrissy-Tetley/dp/0987296817/

‘Tales-About-Rhythm & Music-Notes’ Book   – Two in “The Musical Adventures of Professor Anacrusis” is the recipient of the prestigious Mom’s Choice Silver Award!

Buy it on Amazon   http://www.amazon.com/Tales-About-Rhythm-Music-Notes/dp/0987296825/

Named among the best in family-friendly media, products and services by the Mom’s Choice Awards

Click here to order your audio copy now!  http://musiconthebookshelf.com/listen-to-wombats-musical-adventure/

Fantastic article! For more info on why kids should read books, check out our article on parentedge.in!

Hurry up with that blog, so we can have our story!

I’m not sure when it happened, exactly, that I went from being a writer, musician and sheep farmer, to feeling overwhelmed by social media marketing.  My expectation was that I needed to embrace this process to make a success of being an author of  children’s books.

But frankly, I got lost at the explosive content bit, when I was advised to learn to build an audience and do a blog launch – to write explosive content, which, so they say, will provide substance, endurance and longevity to my on-line presence and digital assets.  Phew!

I get that social media marketing is important.  That I’ll spend some time doing it – so best get it right.  But, hey, what happening here?  All this stuff about calls to action, great content and how to deal with noise, clutter, content fatigue and content shock.  What’s content shock??

On top of all this, on a daily basis, my inbox overflows with tips about optimizing, and integrating content, to blogging to the world on a multitude of social media platforms.  How to create a big splash, 7 best ways to really grow traffic and engagement, and gosh – even how to make my first million in under six weeks.  See!

Did you know that according to ‘Huff Post’, the amount of data that’s already online via blogs and social media, will increase by 600% by 2020.

That’s a lot of pressure!

The fact is I’ve been struggling and stressing out about blogging.  And, I’m taking far too long to post any blog, let alone a meaningful one with a big splash.  Let’s just say, my blogs have been enjoying an extended break, while I deal with being busy.

Like juggling a sheep farm, madly running around family, friends and dogs, with the never ending – promotion – of our quirky books for children’s music.  I mean, how many wombats have you seen trying to play a cello?

Yep, I have been guilty of tending to prioritise my book promotion over other stuff, instead of having a balance of what needs to be done.  This was always bound to happen, until I considered the wisdom in the words of Avi, from the story, Ragweed. “Ma, a mouse has to do what a mouse has to do.”

From now on I’ll be making time for friends and hobbies, with lots of laughter and good times.  Making time to tell a story  and read a story.  And listen to great music.  Because music is itself – a story in the telling –  in the playing –  in the hearing.

Did you realise that we all understand music innately? Bobby McFerrin demonstrates this by using audience participation at the World Science Festival.                 http://www.wimp.com/instinctiveunderstanding/

Calvin and Hobbes inspired me to blog today!

I love these droll cartoon characters.  When Calvin writes his novel, Hobbes asks him what it’s about.  Calvin’s reply is that it’s about a guy who flicks through TV channels with his remote control.  Because, his argument is, ‘they say to write what you know‘!

You can’t argue with that.

I know how much I love to read and tell a story.  There’s a special magic about  a story, and  ‘once upon a time,’ does it for me everytime.

Story telling sucks us in and hides the real world from us.  And reading a story to a child, and helping to teach a child to read is a gift we can all share.  So kids can realise reading is such a very enjoyable activity.  To have that wonderful childhood feeling of not knowing which book to choose. Stories of mystery and intrigue.  Books to take seriously or tales with a great sense of humour.

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“If you want your children to be intelligent,” Albert Einstein once said, “read them fairy tales. If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales.”

You may have gathered by now that I’m also passionate about music and animals.    I discovered that telling children fun stories about animals learning to play musical instruments was a huge success. Especially when sometimes children can find learning about music can turn into a big snore.

Story telling about music in the class room, has launched me into the challenging role of – author of kids’ books about music.

Finding time to read a cool story.

Right now, I’m very excited about our very new children’s audio book.  Superb music and the best narration for ‘Wombat’s Musical Adventure.’

That’s right.  It’s just been released, and what’s more we are all high-fiving each other because the response from kids and adults has been huge.  They love it.

I hope you do too.  let me know.  [Whoo hoo – a ‘call to action.’]

cheers Chrissy

Hi Edu – the main reason I have written two storybooks, two chapterbooks and a set of preschool picture books is because as a music teacher I couldn’t find very many practical resources for teaching children, ages 3 -11 years. There isn’t a lot available and I did end up having to be interestingly creative with ‘hands-on’ resources made for me.
So at this point in time my recommendation is for my own resources. However on Pinterest there are some interesting ideas for young children. No good books though!
Cheers Chrissy

Thank you Sergio
I appreciate your comment.
cheers Chrissy

I would love to know what other resources you like and would recommend besides your own audiobook for children of various ages. Any other resources you can suggest for older kids?

Hey There. I found your blog using msn. This is a really well written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and return to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post. I will definitely comeback.

‘The best way to teach something difficult is to hide it in a fascinating story”. This is seriously profound. We experience the same conditions generation after generation, believing arrogantly that we are the inventors of the conundrum. We fail to read at our peril. “In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God”. It becomes clear why this is written in past tense. We take over words and make the mean what we want them to mean. What does God want them to mean? What do we mean by God? Are we onlookers or subjects? We must heed the stories or else like Sisyphus be condemned to roll by day the rock up the hill, only for it to roll back down in the night.

I love this! I too am on a mission to bring music to families everywhere, classical music is cool, once you understand a little ore about it. I think people have difficulties with it because of its complexity. Modern music lacks that complexity and so people are overwhelmed by classical.

I think when you teach children to appreciate and love classical music, more children will become classical music lovers as they grow.

[…] Quite frankly, this is one tough question! There is no doubt that many primary schools have excellent and enthusiastic music programmes. But discussions with parents and teachers indicate a concern about a perceived slow …  […]

Ah, yes. I remember the splodge well. Great night with lots of talented people. The “splodger” had one of his great creations published in the local paper recently as part of an art exhibit.