We believe!

Kindermusik Convention, 2007, "Believe in Music," left us no choice - we BELIEVE... if we didn't before, we do NOW! Over 400 educators, world-wide, attended and were forever changed! I keep telling everyone in my summary of the week, I felt I had experienced a semester of college in five days. From presentations on developmental psychology, to classroom management, to sensory integration, to award-winning entertainment, my brain - and heart - were filled to capacity. The pictures you're viewing are from this terrific week in Chicago. Beginning with a pose in front of the Kindermusik banner, myself, along with two other local educators - Amy Alley (Blair School of Music) and Maria Schatz (Franklin) are proud to be a part of the global - 66 COUNTRIES - and LEADING early childhood music and movement program. Below is my dear friend Ginger Bennett. A music therapist and Kindermusik educator of many years, she has been a true inspiration and confidante in my quest to make this passion of mine a reality. For more information on her current rebuilding efforts in Biloxi (her hometown), and how you can contribute to the efforts, go to www.missionloveseedskatrina.com. One of the greatest aspects of being a part of this convention was meeting new friends from the states and all over the world who shared the same goal - to reach families everywhere with the power of music! This year, we had representation from Hong Kong, the Philippines, South Africa, and more. In this picture, next to me, from left to right: Deborah from Texas, Kim and Nancy from Canada, Tamra from Oregon (and one of my roomies), and Carmen from Canada. We were all operating on very little sleep, but this photo was taken following our educator recognition banquet, the last event of the week... yet we still stayed up a couple more hours in the hotel restaurant gabbing about business practices, personal stories, some struggles, a lot of accomplishments, and most importantly, how excited we were to get back to our Kindermusik families and be better educators and inspirations to everyone who walks through our door. The last picture is Maria, again. I had to include this! If there were ever a person who loved music, and giving it to others, as much as myself, it has to be Maria Schatz! We laughed and cried, sang, and learned… We were friends before, but our relationship went to a higher level last week. I just love her to death, and if you’re on the Franklin side of town – RUN, don’t walk, to her program! You will be SO thankful!

Wow! I am truly blessed.

Making music matter,
Jen in Nashville

PS - Click on each image to get a closer look.

Does my heart good!

It does my heart good to host recitals and observe the process of a child working so hard towards a goal. At the end of last month, about half of my private students participated in the "Give My Regards to Broadway" event, which was no small feat, considering September can be laden with school transition, added activities, and for some, the first month they had ever taken part in private lessons, let alone a public performance. You're viewing, from left to right - Klinton, (the back of) Benita, her sister, Rubie, myself enjoying the beautiful roses presented, Chandler, Nathan, and Sarah Grace. Come December we'll be at it again, celebrating the sounds of the season. I'm sure, as always, they'll do a fine job and make their families proud... not to mention the teacher!

Making music matter,
Jen

It takes me back...

... I can smell the cold in the air now... The comforting heat as our car would slowly warm to a toasty state. I even remember the feel of the velour seats in our Oldsmobile as I'd sink down for an enjoyable ride anticipating our destination. Not to mention the sounds... The sounds were my favorite - George Winston's, "Autumn" resonating in our cassette player. This was the typical setting of my jaunt across town with Mom to honor's chorus rehearsals. I had to write about it, as I sit here at almost 11 PM. I was up late the other night working on a paper for a class I'm taking and veered over to iTunes, which is not unusual at all for me when sitting down here in this quiet den at the computer. With two little ones, it's rare I get a moment to really LISTEN to music. Out of the blue - I think - GEORGE WINSTON!!! Oh my goodness... I couldn't click to search for it fast enough! I immediately downloaded the entire album. Over 45 minutes of excruciatingly beautiful acoustic piano. It was like I was in 4th grade all over again, watching the city's lights flash on the dashboard as we made our way those Fall and Winter evenings to rehearsals. It is amazing to me how music has the power to do so much. By the end of Track One, I had already reminisced, cried, and smiled just having lived in the moment of all those years ago, simply due to one song. If you're looking for a little peace, a nice dose of satisfaction, and pure talent, you have to give it a try - "Autumn," by George Winston. I highly recommend the purchase, especially at this time of year. It's worth every penny, and for me... every memory!

...now, on to Track Two...

Making music matter,
Jen

He doesn't stand a chance!

This is our oldest son, Daniel. The firstborn of a creatively-minded musician and an athletic coach who's Daddy happens to be at a school with a 24-time State Championship marching band. So, no matter how many times we see Daddy's football games, we also get a real nice glimpse at one kickin' half-time show! Daniel's been going to games since he's been in-utero as well as listening to me singing or playing a tune just as long. It just dawned on me the other day that we have such a wonderfully balanced household. Unfortunately, for as long as I can remember, sports and music have always rivaled one another... but not under this roof! Our love and support of both spans the spectrum... poor guy just doesn't stand a chance - isn't it great?!?

Making music matter,
Jen