Educación Musical

In January, we had our schedules worked out for the new year. Everything was predictable and safe... until one day Sister Peggy announced we had a surprise meeting at 11:00AM.

The schools in El Salvador do not have arts education, officially. The government requests that the teachers incorporate the arts into their curriculum, and give music classes. But, with only 4 hours in the day, and a lack of training as to how to teach music or art, it usually falls between the cracks.

El Grupo, the school closest to Centro Arte, requested music classes. Once per week, for kindergarten (ages 4, 5, 6), first graders, second graders and third graders. All in all, over 200 students. The director suggested that the children come to Centro Arte for their classes, with the teacher.

Now I will admit, I do not adore working with large groups of 5, 6, and 7-year olds. I have always preferred working with teenagers or adults. But, we are volunteers. We are here to provide what is needed. I have also learned that by teaching I also learn, and this is certainly an opportunity for me as well.

When we were children, we had music. We had art. We grew up singing, playing instruments. It added to our childhood and helped us be more creative beings.

Now, we have the opportunity give that opportunity to others. It is really powerful at times, seeing the enthusiasm of the children. Remembering what that was like when I was small.

Every Monday, I teach kindergarten, first, second and third graders in the morning and afternoon. Chris teaches the third graders in the morning and afternoon.

The wonderful thing is that the primary teachers also attend the classes and assist. It feels good to be building relationships with them. We are also modeling how to teach music classes. When we leave Suchitoto, it would be wonderful to train teachers to be able to provide their own music classes when/if there are no music teachers.

One of my classes has 37 second graders. I respect the teachers here (and teachers in general). It is not easy to provide discipline and structure for that many children!

Today, we sang "Buenos dias" and our "Normas" (rules). We sang "2 Manitas" (2 Little Hands) in English and Spanish. We moved to "Cabeza, Hombros, Piernas, Pies" and played egg shakers. The kids loved practicing playing their instrument, and then "freezing" with a funny face. At the end of our time together, we always "descansar" (relax), and sing goodbye.

"I am not a teacher, but an awakener"

-Robert Frost