The sound of music

I love listening to music. In fact there is typically some type of music playing in the background of my daily activities from the moment I wake up to the moment I go to bed. I'd have it playing in the classroom more often if only they could stay on task. Listening in to the music I have playing in my car/home/ipod, would give you a pretty good idea what mood I'm in - upbeat, soothing, instrumental, global, classical, modern, etc.. Recently, with a 20 minute drive to school, I've been playing worship songs -a great way to start the morning. 10th Avenue North is the latest addition to my CD collection. (click here for a sample).

Through a series of misunderstandings I've come to realize that I inadvertently said I would join a singing group in my neighborhood. (I thought I was agreeing to simply have lunch with the group! Oops!) The missionary that once lived in the house I'm now living in used to be part of the group and so they seemed to be happy that I could "join". (I figured they'd at least want an audition!). The group consists of one junior high girl and about 5 women ranging from mid 20's to upper 50's. From what I understand they practice a variety of choral music a couple of times a month and perform at various community recitals throughout the year. Not only is it great practice for my limited Japanese abilities and challenging my vocal abilities, it is a fun time connecting with women who are not otherwise connected to anything church related.

Currently we're practicing a song called "Letter" or Tegami 手紙　by アンジェラ　アキ (Angela Aki). It's a song of a troubled 15 year old girl who writes a letter to her future self looking for answers. You can see/listen to some of the song by clicking here to see the video Tegami by the Angela Aki. Its all in Japanese but you can a see an English translation here. I've really come to enjoy Angela Aki's music and can't wait to get my hands on one of her CDs.

Thankfully, the other song we're working on is in English "I Could Have Danced All Night" from My Fair Lady. So fun to sing, but if feels I've been given the job of Henry Higgins as I help them get the correct pronounciation of the English words. (smile!)


As if that wasn't enough music in my life. . .
When I started teaching 2 months ago, I was told that part of my job as 1st -2nd grade teacher is to also teach a music class once a week to 1st -4th graders - I was - excited and terrified at the same time. I'm excited to share the joy of music and introduce new styles and songs and composers and instruments to my students. But I feel WAY in over my head. I used to play piano. I used to play flute. I even sang in a choir/ensemble throughout high school but TEACHing is not the same as DOing.

I'm trying new things each week to see what they know and where to go with that. Last week they learned about singing in a round and then wrote new lyrics to Row, Row, Row your boat! (Very Creative kids!) I'm open to suggestions, tips, music ideas, books, anything really!

As it is the end of the school year (June 19 last day!) We've started to prepare for next school year. Besides our regular teaching loads the 6 full-time teachers divide up the extra curricular activities and each have 2 or more responsibilities after school. My responsibilities for the next school year fall in the music category. I'll be working on an Elementary Drama/Musical and facilitating the High School Worship team.

Again I'm excited and terrified (and open to advice!)! I've never really been on a worship team let alone teach teenagers how to lead one. And while I have had some experience in musicals - I think I was between the ages of 5 and 12 at the time! I have fond memories of the "Music Machine" and Christmas musicals performed at church. But the only thing I remember about the "Psalty" musicals are the times I messed up my lines on stage! There's probably a lesson that can come out of my own faliure, right?

So, what new music are you listening to lately?
Any tips/hints on teaching Music or leading a worship team?