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.
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