Every summer at Jam Camp, the same arc plays out. Monday morning: four or five kids who mostly don't know each other, instruments between them like shields, everyone playing carefully and slightly apart. Friday afternoon: a band. Inside jokes, a song with their fingerprints on it, and that specific look kids get when they've builtContinue reading "How Music Builds Social & Emotional Skills (the Part No Report Card Measures)"
How Music Grows the Brain (and Why That’s Not Even the Point)
In fifth grade, a teacher put headphones on me, played pitches into my ears, and asked me to sing them back. I matched them without really understanding why that was hard. It was the first time anyone had pointed at something I could do and said that — and it mattered more than the teacherContinue reading "How Music Grows the Brain (and Why That’s Not Even the Point)"
Little Hands, Big Sounds: Playful Music Activities for Babies & Toddlers
If you've ever watched a room full of toddlers with egg shakers, you know what it sounds like: sixteen different rhythms happening at once, one kid chewing on hers, somebody sprinting. And here's the thing — that room is working perfectly. This is our field guide to musical play for the littlest musicians — theContinue reading "Little Hands, Big Sounds: Playful Music Activities for Babies & Toddlers"
Why Music Matters for Little Ones (0–6): What’s Really Happening When They Play
When my first baby was tiny, I used to sing Blackbird into his ear — soft and slow, McCartney and me on the 2 a.m. shift together. I wasn't doing it to build his brain. I was doing it because it worked. But here's what I've learned since, both as a music educator and asContinue reading "Why Music Matters for Little Ones (0–6): What’s Really Happening When They Play"
The Complete Audition Prep Guide: Musical Theatre, School Ensembles, FWAFA, TeSA & I.M. Terrell
Auditioning for a musical theatre role can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. As a seasoned music educator with years of experience prepping students for auditions, I understand the importance of being well-prepared to give your best performance. In this comprehensive guide, I'll share valuable tips and strategies to help you embark on a successful audition journey.