A Music Teachers Story
January 7, 2010Good-bye 2009, Hello 2010
A 2010 sunset
Periodically I receive emails that touch me deeply. Just before Christmas one came from veteran music educator Ed Boynton from Fort Kent. Even though the holiday is passed and my decorations are back in the attic, the lights in my windows linger on for several more nights. So, I find it appropriate starting this new year to share Ed’s story (with his permission, of course).
Our Chorus (nine females and one very brave male) did a one hour performance at a local nursing home Friday. I think what still astounds me as an educator is that the students spent an extra hour just visiting with the patients. When I returned to the nursing home on Sunday (to visit a former teacher of mine) I was greeted with hugs and praise from the staff and patients and thanks for bringing the chorus up (we do this almost every year, and the reaction is always the same.)
After over thirty years in education, I am still in awe over the talents and hearts of our students. All ten of our Chorus students and several of our Chamber Chorus students visit the nursing homes regularly. And like the proverbial seed, those who join chorus and aren’t regular nursing home visitors often become regular patrons of the elderly.
Our young people are modern miracles – yes Argy, there is a Santa Claus (just couldn’t resist that line!).
I know many of you have at least one similar story. Please share it with me by email or in the comment section of the blog.
Best Wishes for a GLORIOUS 2010! I know that some days there will be struggles but that the successes and experiences you provide for young people in arts education will impact students’ lives, and yours, over and over again.
me arts ed 
What a heartwarming piece! It’s another example of the wideranging effects of the arts, not just as they exist for those who practice them regularly and love them, but as a conduit to bring communities together in an environment of caring and sharing.