Saturday, August 24, 2024 by Anne Vaaler | Uncategorized

Back to work....or is it play?

It's back-to-school time again, and time to review lesson schedules, sports calendars, and holidays. This time of year can feel very industrious, very "time for real life again." Still, it is also a time of energy here in the Sierra Foothills of Northern California, especially after the heavy heat of the summer. We can see the kids getting back onto the soccer fields, and even though we still have plenty of warm days to come, there is change in the air. New teachers, new activities, busy family schedules, but have you made time to play? Have you ever thought about why we "play" music rather than "work" music? I think, even though there is certainly great effort that goes into excellence in music performance, play and joy are at the root of our relationship with music.  Music conjures memories, it causes us to sway or break into our best dance moves, we hum, we sing, and we play. Adults always tell me that they regret not taking more music classes, not staying with the lessons their parents provided - I've never had anyone tell me they had too much music as a kid. Well, guess what? It's not too late! You can add music into your life at any age.  Do you want to sing? Sign up for voice lessons, or join a choir. There are all sorts of choirs out there, and if you don't find what you're looking for, start one! Come by MIners Harmony Music Store and sign up for guitar, mandolin, ukulele, piano or drum lessons. Other instruments? Just ask. someone is out there ready to help you get back into the "play" of music. Come and ask me about singing, and about our "Women Sing! group. 

New this year, because we need more FUN, I am offering Small Group classes for kids.  To be perfectly honest, if a small group of adults came to me and asked about a class just for them, I'd be thrilled! For now, these classes are on the schedule, starting the week of September 9:

Singing Clubs

Tuesdays, 2:45-3:35, ages 6-8

Wednesdays, 10:00-10:50 am, ages 4-6; 3:45-4:35, ages 8-10

Sing & Strum (singing and ukulele) 

Thursdays, 4:40-5:30, ages 7-12

Classes run for 10 weeks, Tuition is $300, payable over 3 months