Animals Love Music, too!

Everyone loves a good animal video. Play one and even the most serious of people will crack a smile. I compiled a few music related animal videos that will entertain! Enjoy!
(Please note: if you are a blog subscriber, you may need to click through to the blog to watch the videos).

Dancing Elephants

Violinist Eleanor Bartsch: "Me warming up for my performance of the Bach Concerto for Two Violins with the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra at the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, WI. I decided to go outside and play a bit for Kelly and Viola, 44 and 45 year-old elephants that have lived together for most of their lives. I found out that elephants REALLY like Bach..."

Koko Plays the Keyboard

Koko Flix:

"Koko likes to experiment with many forms of art and technology...Here Koko tries out a new, flexible, electronic keyboard, and improvises a little tune (music and rhythm) while Penny records it. When Penny plays back the tune, Koko seems to like what she hears, signing "Koko love."
Like sign language, music can be another dimension of interspecies communication. It's another window into the mind, heart and soul of another being, and lets us share something that's universal — joy."

Animal's Playing Instruments, Compilation

Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about a Bay Area Clarinet group that amazes!

Heather (iCA President)

www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

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Using Music to Change Millions of Lives

"Music produces an irreversible transformation in a child. This doesn't mean he'll end up as a professional musician. He may become a doctor, or study law, or teach literature. What music gives him remains indelibly part of who he is forever." 

- Dr. Jose Antonio Abreu

In 1975 Venezuelan economist Jose Antonio Abreu had a brilliant idea: to create a youth orchestra in a poverty-stricken area within Venezuela. 

Over the past 39 years, Dr. Abreu has seen his idea become an extremely successful reality. Beginning with children preschool age, his program, El Sistema, teaches its students about moving, music & instruments; eventually turning many into orchestra players who travel the world.

El Sistema begins taking students around age 2 or 3, teaching them about music and music theory. By age 4, their students have started on an instrument, and by 6 they are in orchestras. Working several hours a day, 6 days a week, the program gives its students room for only studies and music. This creates a violence free route that most in their areas are not as fortunate to have as an option.

El Sistema has not only changed the lives for close to a million Venezulenas (800,000 students as of 2008), they also now have programs across the United States and other parts of the world. They have also inspired city's to create youth orchestras, including the Los Angeles' Philharmonic Youth Orchestra LA (YOLA).

I highly recommend visiting this link

(http://www.cbsnews.com/news/el-sistema-changing-lives-through-music/)

and watching the 60 Minutes special on El Sistema. It will change the way you look at the possibilities music within children's lives, and what it can do to change the future for children everywhere. 

Image from The Guardian

Students with conductor Gustavo Dudamel (left) and Dr. Aberu (right)

Caracas, Venezuela

Resources:
http://www.kidznotes.org/the-program/el-sistema/
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/el-sistema-changing-lives-through-music/
http://www.laphil.com/education/yola
http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/jun/14/abreu-el-sistema-venezuela-interview-clemency-burton-hill

Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about animals who are feeling the music!

Heather (iCA President)

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Group Brings COMEDY to Classical Music

Four classically trained musicians are using their musical training in a very unique way. The men of "MozART Group" have created a unique cabaret that has taken he world by storm.

The group takes classical compositions and breaks them down, analyzing and adding to them, finding a humor one wouldn't have thought possible. They began playing together in 1995, and have only grown since then. With 5 released DVD's between 2008 and 2012, MozART has attained a following around the world. Their second worldwide tour began in January 2014 (they will be in the US in September. Check here to see if they're coming to your city). The group has also performed with other famous musicians, such as Bobby McFerrin.

MozART Group and Bobby McFerrin

MoZART Group at Arosa Humorfestival 2013

If you watched the videos above, you know that these guys are hilarious and extremely talented. If they come to a city near me I'll certainly be checking them out!

Resource: http://www.mozartgroup.net

Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about an organization changing the world for kids in Venezuela, and now the US.

Heather (iCA President)

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Bridging Cultures Using Music

It's hard to imagine what it's like to live in a different place unless you've experienced their culture. This feels especially impossible when you may live thousands of miles away. The organization ThisWorldMusic wanted to give students the opportunity to learn about different cultures. With programs in both the US and abroad, the organization's mission is "To create cultural bridges between people and communities worldwide through a shared love of music and the arts." Using drum, dance, singing, and other forms of art, ThisWorldMusic immerses students into a culture unlike their own.

Founded in 2007 by Jeremy Cohen: percussionist, composer, and UMass Adjunct Facility Member; the organization pulls from Mr. Cohen's history as a music director in its workshops. ThisWorldMusic offers four programs: on-campus Undergraduate and Graduate programs in Africa, K-12 Workshops and Residencies, Professional Development courses (also in Africa); and the study abroad program in Ghana.

http://thisworldmusic.com/organization-overview/

The organization's most well known program is the three week "study abroad" in Ghana. Two weeks are spent at the Dagbe Cultural Cultural Institute & Arts Centre, while the third is spent in some of Ghana's most beautiful and interesting locations. Open to the public, the program won the Top Short-Term Program Award from Abroad101 and STA Travel. The program teachers its students about the local instruments, philosophies, cuisine, dances, and even has them tour a local master drum maker's workshop. Many of the written reviews and interviews in the program's video indicate a strong presence of teachers within the participants. They discuss what they've learned and their excitement to take their new perspective and information back to their students.

The organization also partners with US organizations and schools to offer educational workshops within the US.

We love the idea of bridging multiple cultures as ThisWorldMusic is doing. Only the universal language of music could bring those from all walks of life together to learn about one another. For more information about all of their programs, visit http://thisworldmusic.com. And for information about the Ghana trip, (if you haven't already from the link above) make sure to watch their video, which really gives you a feel of what ThisWorldMusic does.

Resource: thisworldmusic.com

Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about a unique group making unique music.


Heather (iCA President)

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History is Made on Broadway

History has been made in an exciting way on Broadway. For the first time, Broadway has four shows with African American men as music directors and conductors.

From Left: Waters, Mark, Joubert and Becton

Daryl Waters, music supervisor and conductor, "After Midnight"

Zane Mark, music director and conductor , "Holler If Ya Hear Me"

Joseph Joubert, music director and conductor, "Mowtown the Musical"

Shelton Becton, conductor, pianist, and performer, "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill"

In an industry that is historically and still predominately Caucasian, these four men are part of an important step in moving Broadway in the right direction. With extremely impressive musical backgrounds, these men have worked hard for years to get where they are today.

Both Joubert and Becton mention their predecessors within the industry. Becton notes: "We are the offspring of such trailblazers as Joyce Brown, Linda Twine, Harold Wheeler, Luther Henderson, and more. Hopefully it means that there is a greater acceptance of individual qualifications and less consideration of skin hues." We agree, and hope that everyone has an equal opportunity to follow their dreams. We are glad to see news like this, that will continue to open the doors for musicians of color.

"Let's hope this positive trend keeps up!"

-Joseph Joubert

Resource:
http://t.amsterdamnews.com/news/2014/jun/26/african-american-conductors-make-history-broadway/#.U64hBtqkkN0.twitter
http://newpittsburghcourieronline.com/2014/07/20/black-conductors-make-history-on-broadway/


Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about an organization who is bringing cultures together using art and music.


Heather (iCA President)

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One Unexpected Reason Why the Arts are Crucial to Education

Image From Article Below

The benefits of music, art, and sports on children's lives are endless. But that doesn't stop these important subjects from being cut from our schools. In this ongoing debate, a new reason to keep them around has emerged.

Attendance.

After cutting many of these programs, the Milwaukee school system kept on a few teachers for special programs. They noticed that on the days these teachers would visit each school, the attendance would rise. Since public schools get funding based on actual attendance of students, this was definitely something to notice. They also noted that it kept some students from transferring to schools that still offered these programs. Overall morale increased when these programs were kept around. 

Another important area where they saw improvement was in parent participation. When music, arts, and sports were cut, those common after school trips parents would make to hear concerts, watch games, and other activities, left with them. With the parents not involved, the community suffers.

There are many reasons why these programs are important in school. Without the outlet that music, arts, and sports offer to kids, many will suffer. If attendance; simply encouraging a child to attend school, is an added benefit, then lets add it to the list of reasons we need to continue the push to keep these subjects in school.

Resource:

http://www.care2.com/causes/arts-education-is-making-a-comeback-but-not-for-the-reason-you-might-think.html

Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about how African American conductors are making history on Broadway.


Heather (iCA President)

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New Instruments from Old Homes

Detroit has been going through some rough times. At a time when many of its buildings are being torn down, a nonprofit called Reclaim Detroit is deconstructing vacant structures, and reselling the contents. From the floors to the doors, they are recycling these beautiful original materials.

Recently, a man named Gary Zimnicki heard about Reclaim Detroit, and he became inspired. Zimnicki has been hand-making guitars and ukulele's since he was a teenager. With the original inspiration to be a rockstar, Zimnicki ended up an amazing craftsman of instruments, whose guitars and ukelele's are played by some of the best.

Zimnicki recently teamed with Reclaim Detroit, and the outcome has been amazing. Taking materials from a house originally built in 1910, just two blocks from the Motown studios, Zimnicki is using floorboards and ceiling joists for his instruments. After cleaning, sanding, and cutting the wood, Zimnicki has beautiful materials to reuse. As he describes, the wood is "old and well seasoned" and pays tribute to the craftsman that built the houses, over 100 years ago.

"I like to say that I'm building instruments not made in Detroit, but made of Detroit." - Gary Zimnicki

With his final touch being a small mother of pearl image of the home from which the materials come, Zimnicki's instruments have produced a sound so beautiful it's stunning the professionals.

Watch the amazing video to see Zimnicki's work with Reclaim Detroit, 

and hear one of the instruments being played by a professional.

Resource:

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/art/detroits-vacant-homes-make-music/

Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is an interesting take on why music education is so important to have in schools.


Heather (iCA President)

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Changing the World of Music for the Blind Musician

Stevie Wonder. Ray Charles. Andrea Bocelli. These three men are all amazing and talented musicians. But they also have something else in common: they all went blind during childhood. Playing music is always an option for the blind, however the added challenges are obvious. Blind musicians are inspiration for all of us, but especially for young blind aspiring musicians.

Although there is a braille notation system for reading music, it is extremely complicated, especially for children to learn. For example, for a blind piano player, this braille system means reading and memorizing the part for the right hand, then the part for the left hand, then putting them together mentally, and all before playing an already complicated piece. 

From: http://blindmusicianuwmadison.wordpress.com/home/full-story/

A Sample of Kim's Braille Music

University of Wisconsin-Madison student, Yeaji Kim knows these challenges all too well. Mostly blind by childhood, music was what most connected Kim to those around her. But when she had difficulty capturing the inner melody of a song, she knew something needed to change. The braille system was not conveying the music in the same way that seeing the notes does. So Kim came up with an idea: a new method that gives sheet music a 3-D quality by elevating the notes. This allows the visually impaired student to learn in the same room, and with the same exact music as everyone else. It also allows teachers to teach the student from the sheet music, without the teacher needing to be able to read the braille system.

"Music literacy should be regarded as important as general literacy. Although none of us must be denied personal access to information and the freedom of choice, unfortunately, not all students have the opportunity to access the musical medium." -Yaeji Kim

Kim's idea is still in its early stages, with a provisional patent filed. But the future of her invention, and the opportunities it could create for visually impaired students and musicians around the world are endless.

From: http://blindmusicianuwmadison.wordpress.com/home/full-story/

Kim and her Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Resource:
http://www.twincities.com/localnews/ci_25961134/blind-musician-at-uw-madison-develops-3d-sheet
http://blindmusicianuwmadison.wordpress.com/home/full-story/



Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about some cool instruments being made from a very unlikely source!


Heather (iCA President)

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THIS Could Change the World for Billions of People; Get Involved #ShakeYourPower

Over 1.2 billion people live without access to electricity.

Kenya contributes to that number with 75% of its population living without electricity.

This inspired precussionist Sudha Kheterpal to create SPARK: a percussion shaker that converts the energy from playing the instrument into electricty. The shaker then has the ability for electronics (lights, mobile devices, etc.) to be plugged into it via USB.

"We can do it together."

-#ShakeYourPower Video

With the prototype finished, the end goal is to have the instrument available in the form of "Assembly Kits." The kit would serve two purposes: allowing children to learn while assembling the kits themselves; with the end result being the actual device that brings them power.

Image from SPARK Kickstarter Page

Nandi South community, Kenya

As their video shows, SPARK offers a lot more than electricity, to those of all ages. It provides access to those who will now be able to charge mobile devices more easily. It provides education to the little boy who gets home after dark, and is now able to read with his light. It provides safety to the little girl walking home alone everyday from school in the dark, who now has a light.

And of course, SPARK is all about music. "For me. the project is also about connecting people and bringing them together through music. Through the joy of playing music we can create something really useful, changing the world one beat and one shake a time." -Sudha Kheterpal

Head to the Kickstarter page now to watch the video that explains their overall plans, what they need the money for, and learn about those who have already been helped. There's only 8 days left, join the movement now, we did.

This is a game changer. Be a part of it. 

Pledge to #ShakeYourPower

Resources:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/726552172/shakeyourpower
http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/TOPICS/EXTENERGY2/0,,contentMDK:22855502~pagePK:210058~piPK:210062~theSitePK:4114200,00.html


Check back next week to see our blog post, which is about a new 3-D sheet music for the visually impaired.


Heather (iCA President)

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The New Landscape: From Garage Bands to Craigslist

All musicians can identify with being in some type of musical group, and along with any group, comes its roots. Where or how was the group formed? Was it a group of friends getting together to jam on their instruments? The classic image of some kind of "garage band"?

I stumbled across an article written by journalist and musician Gary Moskowitz, about changes in the music scene. He discusses the shift from groups of friends who live in the same area, practicing in one another's garages; to the current situation where this set-up more often than not, according to Moskowitz,  "...no longer applies."

Moskowitz describes a new scene, in which websites like Craigslist create a space for musicians to find one another.

"The Craigslist musician's section is a vast window into the aspirations, music snobbery, fellowship, and alienation of musicians who are not attached to a connected, local scene."

-Gary Moskowitz

Of course there can be disagreements and other issues that arise. But Moskowitz also addresses this problem, noting how easy it is to end a group (when necessary) when nobody has any outside connections to one another.

"My music scene is no longer a raw, shared vision among friends: It rests entirely on my Internet access, a willingness to put myself out there, and faith that people with absolutely no history together can make music together."

-Gary Moskowitz

Digital tools make it possible to make music with anyone, anywhere. Although some might not want to leave their local music scene, as in all other parts of life, it would be silly to not address and embrace the impact the internet can have on bringing musicians together, and creating new art that would otherwise not exist.

I highly suggest reading the article that inspired this blog post, and opened my eyes to the world of Craigslist's influence on the musical world: Gary Moskowitz's full article in The Atlantic, which I quoted above.

Craigslist Is My Music Scene by Gary Moskowitz

Check back next week to see our blog post, which is about a musical instrument that generates electricity. #ShakeYourPower 


Heather (iCA President)

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Favorite Marching Band Videos

Watching Marching Bands at halftime is such an entertaining part of going to college games. There are countless talented Marching Bands out there. I have selected just a few of my favorites. Fun for those of you who have been in marching bands, and cool for people who have never played an instrument before. Enjoy!

Ohio State University - "Hollywood Blockbuster Show"

USC - "Thriller"

Michigan Marching Band - "Beyonce"

Ohio State University - "Movie Toons"

Check back next week to see our blog post, which is about how Craigslist is changing the music scene.


Heather (iCA President)

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Innovative Instrument: The Stone Pad

It's not everyday you come across a new instrument, but Italian company Fabrica has created just that.

Invented for the new album of Columbian violinist, Jhon William Castano Montoya, the 'Stone Pad' is played by placing pebbles on top of wooden posts of different heights. When the pebbles are tapped, the notes are played. Designers Ryu Yamamoto and Leonardo Amico then attached electrical wires, sending the notes signals to a computer that changes the pulses into sounds.

Image From: http://www.dezeen.com/2014/05/07/fabrica-stone-pad-musical-instrument/

Check out a video of the Stone Pad in action here: The Stone Pad by Fabrica (on Vimeo)


Although I don't anticipate this being played in Orchestras anytime soon, it does make me curious to see what Montoya has done with the sound! Very cool, Fabrica.


Resources:
http://www.classical-music.com/news/new-electronic-musical-instrument-created-pebbles-and-sticks
http://www.dezeen.com/2014/05/07/fabrica-stone-pad-musical-instrument/


Check back next week to see our blog post, which is a fun highlight of our favorite marching band viral videos.


Heather (iCA President)

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In Remembrance: Maya Angelou and Music

"Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything dances."

- Maya Angelou

Many have heard this quote, but many don't know about Maya Angelou's history with music. In honor of her passing, I wanted to highlight her relationship and history with music, as well as her influence on music.


Music in Her Life:

As a teenager, Angelou won a scholarship to the San Francisco's Labor School, for dance and drama. Although she dropped out of the school, as we know, it was the beginning of a long relationship with the arts.

Throughout the 50's, Angelou was focused on her music:
1954-1955: toured with opera Porgy and Bess
1956: toured with her own show
1957: appeared in an off-broadway show where she composed and performed her own songs (this inspired her first film, Calypso Heat Wave)
1957: Released album "Miss Calypso". Sang every song on the album, and composed five.

Although Angelou eventually gave up performing for writing, it is easy for any musician to see how her musical background had a profound impact on her future career in the arts, through her writing and particularly her poetry.

"Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl back to loneliness."

-Maya Angelou

Influence on Music:

Maya Angelou has had an immense amount of influence on musicians over the years. Here is a sample list of musical works inspired by Maya Angelou:

"Caged Bird" by Alicia Keys
The lyrics in this song are modified from Angelou's "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings."

"Still I Rise" by 2Pac + Outlawz
Released posthumous from 2Pac, the song (and title) is a reference to Angelou's poem, "Still I Rise". This is especially emotional, as Angelou had an emotional experience with Tupac during the filming of "Potetic Justice".

"I'll Rise" by Ben Harper
Taking lines from "Still I Rise", Harper interprets the poem from a male perspective.

"Phenomenal Woman" by Olivia Newton-John
Based on Angelou's poem of the same name.



There's no argument that Maya Angelou has had an incomparable influence on people all over the world. We are sad she has left us, but so inspired by all she has left us with.
Rest in Peace, Maya Angelou, and thank you.

"A bird does not sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song."

-Maya Angelou (1928-2014)

Resources:
http://mayaangelou.com/bio/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miss_Calypso
http://theurbandaily.com/2014/05/28/maya-angelou-hip-hop-lyrics/playlist/maya-angelou-in-hip-hop-songs/item/2938580/
http://www.musictimes.com/articles/6397/20140528/10-musical-works-inspired-by-maya-angelou-kanye-west-common-alicia-keys-and-more.htm



Check back next week to see our blog post, which highlights a newly invented musical instrument.


Heather (iCA President)

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Music Therapy: What is it and Who is it Helping?

Most people have had the experience of a particular song lifting their lousy mood. Although it feels like a simple fix when you're in a rut, an entire industry is helping people everyday using the science behind this concept.

As described by the American Music Therapy Association, "Music Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of an individual. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the qualified music therapist provides the indicated treatment including creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music..." (Read more at http://www.musictherapy.org/about/musictherapy/)

Music therapy helps patients of all ages with a large range of needs; from developmental & learning disabilities, social disorders, aging related conditions, brain and physical disabilities, and more.  Helping children communicate better, adults remember more, people with behavioral problems get a better hold of themselves; these are just some of the amazing benefits that can be reached with help from the therapists who specialize in music therapy.

Kim After (left) and Erin Frees (right), from the article discussed below

To bring some perspective, I wanted to highlight an article in the Star Tribune written by Erinn Frees, a music therapist at a Children's Hospital in Minnesota. She chose to highlight five things you might not know about music therapy (in this case, particularly regarding children):

1) Music therapy Isn't Just for Fun
2) A child doesn't need to be a musician or have musical experience to benefit from music therapy
3) We always use patient-preferred music
4) Music therapists are not just musicians waiting to make our next big break on "American Idol"
5) We don't just sing and play instruments

For the explanation behind each factor above, please read the complete article.


If you have someone in your life who may benefit from music therapy, visit the American Music Therapy Association for more information and resources.


Check back next week to see our blog post, which is a tribute to Maya Angelou: her relationship with and her influence on music.


Heather (iCA President)

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FUN Trumpet Videos Everyone Will Enjoy

This week the iCA team is attending the 39th Annual Conference of the International Trumpet Guild. There are musicians of all ages, levels, and walks of life.

In honor of our attending this show, I thought I would take a break from our regularly scheduled blogging, and have some fun with YouTube. See below for some entertaining Trumpet videos. These videos are fun for everyone, from professional trumpet players to non-musician friends. Enjoy!



Classic

Dizzy Gillespie and Louis Armstrong - "Umbrella Man"

Cat Anderson - "Summertime"

Kids

I had to include two of Geoffrey Gallante, he's so good!

Little Bobby Harrison

And finally, a quick dog video...

Check back next week to see our blog post, which is all about music therapy, really!


Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

Aztec Hope Youth Orchestra: Changing Lives

60 orchestras and choirs. More than 13,000 youth and 800 teachers. Two countries.

This is the impact that Esperanza Azteca (Aztec Hope Youth Orchestra) has had on many youth in Mexico, and now El Salvador. Driven by Ricardo B. Salinas Pliego, the organization works with the government to bring music to low-inocme youth. Over 70% of the youth, ages 5-17 have no previous musical experience. They learn everything from the correct stance when playing their instruments, to reading music. The organization is for students who want to commit;  with many students who join the orchestras moving closer so they can attend the hours of daily rehearsal. As you can see below, it pays off.

The organization reaches forward with ambitious goals that I have no doubt they will meet: 74 orchestras by the end of the year; 500,000 youth and teachers reached within 10 years.

With impressive milestones already met, I wanted to highlight Emperanza Azteca, as well as the leader behind it.

If you want to help the organization reach even more youth, please visit their "Association of Friends" page to find out how, or visit their donation page.



Check back next week to see our blog post, which is all about music therapy.


Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

How to Choose a Child's First Instrument, and Why It Matters

Perhaps one musician started their first instrument at home, age 4; another musician was in school, age 11; a third was with friends, age 15.
No matter the story, the importance is the same: these beginnings helped them reach their professional and life goals. Whether only playing in youth, playing as a hobby, becoming a teacher, or a professional; the influence of that first instrument led each musician where they are today.

That leads us to the question: how do we choose the best instrument for each child?

This is a complicated question that spans in involvement from parents to teachers. I want to look at the question from the viewpoint:
What can parents do at an early age to help foster their children's interest in a musical instrument? Particularly an instrument that is a good fit for them.

Image from: 

http://www.fulltimenanny.com/blog/helping-your-child-choose-a-musical-instrument/

I have compiled a list of points that can help broaden parents minds, and help their children find the instrument that's right for them.

• Expose children to multiple types of music, so they hear different instruments and sounds
• It's easy to only listen to what we like, but exposing our children to different types of music broadens their perspective.
• Take them to see live music
• Any experience to see live music will broaden a child's view.
• Some music stores, schools, symphonies, etc. offer "instrument petting zoos," which allow children to get up close and personal with instruments.
•  Let them choose, but make sure they learn the basics
• A child may have a different idea of what they want to play than their parent. Instead of worrying what instrument they chose, focus on finding them a good teacher and making sure they learn the basics. Once they know music theory, they can move between instruments with much more ease.
• Pricing
• Instruments are expensive. Researching ahead of time can help you know your (realistic) options before you start the discussion with your child.
• Consider their age
• Piano and violin are physically good for younger children (under 6), and good for helping them understand sounds and learn the basic foundations to grow into other instruments, should they want to.
• Giving them the foundations will allow them to grow into instruments that are a better physical fit when they are older (for example the physical difficulty of getting sound from a trumpet). 
• Listen to your child
• As with anything, ask your child why they like or dislike an instrument, and listen to their answer. It may help you guide them, and what they say may surprise you.
• Try, try, try!
• Encourage them to try! No amount of musical exposure is going to hurt.

Most of you have been there yourselves. Many of you have children who have been there. And many of you have children who will be there. The bottom line is, choosing a first instrument instrument can be an important part of a child's life. I hope these tips help make the process a little easier, or at least give you something to think about.

Need something to lighten the decision? If in doubt, you could always try this silly, if not fun, Matcher Quiz: What Instrument Is Right For My Child? But remember, the most important part is to listen to your child!



Resources:
http://lancasteronline.com/lifestyle/how-to-help-your-child-choose-a-musical-instrument/article_1085d2b6-c31f-11e3-8952-0017a43b2370.html
http://www.pbs.org/parents/education/music-arts/helping-your-child-choose-the-right-instrument/
http://www.fulltimenanny.com/blog/helping-your-child-choose-a-musical-instrument/


Check back next week to see our blog post, which is about one leader who is bringing the opportunity to play music to hundreds of children in his area.


Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

Sphinx: "Transforming Lives Through the Power of Diversity in the Arts"

In 1997 Dr. Aaron P. Dworkin founded The Sphinx Organization. The Detroit based organization is "Transforming Lives Through the Power of Diversity in the Arts." Dr. Dworkin was consistently the only minority in his field, and it inspired him to change the landscape of classical music, giving minority children a chance to be a part of the classical music world. With an impressive list of supporters and an honorary board that includes Yo-Yo Ma, the organization has grown a tremendous amount over the past 17 years, and they have the statistics to show it.

"Talent does not pick demographics." -Yo-Yo Ma

The organization has several segments that work together in making Dr. Dworkin's dream continue to develop as a movement. From a tuition free summer camp for minority children, to a prestigious competition that harbors the best talent, to the creation of the first and only professional black and latino orchestra in the world, Sphinx is making amazing strides, both nationally and globally.

Photo: http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/may/10/rps-international-honorary-membership-aaron-p-dworkin-sphinx-organization

"In our first 15 years, we have been able to literally transform the lives of tens of thousands. And now, Sphinx Con is bring together global leaders from across the performing arts sector and beyond as we empower ideas for diversity in the arts. But there is tremendous work that still needs to be done." -Dr Aaron Dworkin

Here are some of Sphinx's impressive statistics:

• In 1997, 1.5% of orchestra members were Black or Latino. Today, it's more than doubled (over 4%)
• Sphinx founder Dr. Aaron Dworkin is a former member of the Obama National Arts Policy Committee, and was President Obama's first appointment to the National Council on the Arts (from Dr. Dworkin's personal website)
• From 1998 to 2008 America's Top Orchestra's had an increase of 1.24% of Black members. All orchestras with an increase had a relationship with Sphinx
• Over 100 worldwide artistic partners
• Over $200,000 in instruments
• Over 65,000 students reached in 175 schools nationwide
• Over 200 orchestra performances for over 200,000 audience members
• Over 2 million in broadcast audiences reached nationally
• More than 130 alumni in 15 competitions
• 9 commissioned works
• 2 touring ensembles (The Catalyst Quartet, Sphinx Virtuosi)
• $2 million in scholarship awards
• Sphinx Alumni graduated to every top 10 music school

What Sphinx has accomplished in just 17 years is a testament to how far we can go in the next 17 years. I applaud them for all that they've done, and am excited to follow their progress into the future.

"I'm just in awe of what Sphinx has accomplished, but even more excited about its future." 
-Yo-Yo Ma

Watch the Sphinx Story Video here:
http://www.sphinxmusic.org/the-sphinx-story.html

To learn more about this organization (or donate to their cause), visit their website at http://www.sphinxmusic.org/.
(Unless otherwise noted, all above information is from the Sphinx Organization website.)




Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about choosing instruments for children.


Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

April is Jazz Appreciation Month

Leading up to April 30ths International Jazz Day, the United States celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month for the whole month of April.

This year is particularly special because it marks the 50 year anniversary of John Coltrane's composition "A Love Supreme." The Smithsonian's Natural Museum of American History, among many others, are celebrating this special year with several resources and encouraging musicians nationwide to support Jazz!

In support of this exciting month, watch the video of John Coltrane in one of the only performances (and the only one found recorded) of him performing "A Love Supreme."

We also encourage you to take it upon yourself to Celebrate Jazz. Go with friends and family, maybe take someone who has not been exposed to Jazz - use these links to find exciting Jazz events in your area:

http://www.jazznearyou.com
http://jazzday.com/?event-country=united-states&event-year=2014
http://americanjazzmuseum.org/event/jazz-appreciation-month-jam-2014/



Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is about a special organization that's changing the future for some special young musicians.


Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

How the Brain Benefits from Early Music Training

I came across an article entitled, "Even A Few Years of Music Training Benefits the Brain." Naturally, it caught my attention.

The article discusses the benefits of music education received at a young age, the impact that it has on you as a child, and the lasting benefits as an adult.

Image from the original article:

http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/science-sushi/2012/08/21/even-

a-few-years-of-music-training-benefits-the-brain/?WT.mc_id=SA_syn_HuffPo

I decided to lay out the main benefits discussed in the article, beginning with this: Even kids who only play for a few years have benefits: "short-term music lessons may enhance lifelong listening and learning."


Benefits That Show Even When We're Young:

• Shapes how brains develop, improving the ability to differentiate sounds and speech
• Strong linguistic benefits
• Improves performance on everyday listening tasks, making us better at focusing on sound and perceiving different sounds
• Better performance in school: 
• stronger reading skills, increased math abilities, and higher general intelligence scores
• Improves social development

Benefits That Continue To Show As We Age:

• Musicians are better able to process foreign languages because of their ability to hear differences in pitch and have incredible abilities to detect speech in noise
• Adults who had only a few years of musical training as children had more robust neural processing of different test sounds than those who had not had training. They were also more effective at pulling out the lowest frequency sound of the test noises

As we all know, music training benefits many aspects of life. The two things that came to mind after reading this article:

1) The importance of music education, and the impact it can have on our children and their lives as adults
2) Music education helps the brain at any age - it's never too late to start (take it from my Mom and co-founder of iCA - she picked her instrument up at age 48!)

Make sure to go read the full article (from which I quoted much of the above) to learn about the importance of everything listed and more - it's worth it!

http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/science-sushi/2012/08/21/even-a-few-years-of-music-training-benefits-the-brain/?WT.mc_id=SA_syn_HuffPo - by Christine Wilcox


Check back next week to see our next blog post, which is all about Jazz, since April is Jazz Appreciation Month!



Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

Celebrating Florence Beatrice Smith Price, Born today in 1887

Picture Little Rock, Arkansas in 1887. A time of severe racial segregation for African American's, life was not easy. Amazingly, a woman named Florence Beatrice Smith Price overcame the prejudice around her, and became the first African American woman in the United States recognized as a symphonic composer.

Born today, April 9, 1887, Florence Beatrice Smith Price, was always destined for her future career. Learning from her mother, she performed her first piano recital at age 4. By age 11 she had published her first work. At 14, she had graduated high school (valedictorian) and started at The New England Conservatory of Music. Passing as hispanic for some time, Price had many hurdles to jump over.

Image from: Biography.com, Florence Price

It was her classic European education at the conservatory, that she combined with her ancestral spirituals, to make a sound unlike any other. Facing constant racial prejudices and the resulting rejections, Price continued to work  hard and compose until eventually she was recognized from the city to national levels.

A name many are unfamiliar with, we wanted to bring attention to her day of birth, 127 years ago today. A story of inspiration, persistence, and strength, Beatrice Price is someone we can all look up to.

Price died from a stroke on June 3, 1953, but her work has continued to live on. Please take a moment to listen to the 3rd Movement from her piece Symphony No. 3 in C Minor; and share her story with someone who would be interested.

For more of Price's story, view our resources below:
http://musiced.about.com/od/blackhistorymonth/p/florenceprice.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florence_Beatrice_Price
http://www.encyclopediaofarkansas.net/encyclopedia/entry-detail.aspx?entryID=1742
http://www.biography.com/people/florence-beatrice-price-21120681


Make sure to check back next week to see our next blog post, which talks about how music training benefits the brain.


Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

Landfill Harmonic: A Story You Can't Ignore

It started with a viral video I came across on Facebook last year. Imagine children living with their families on a landfill. It's the way of life for the families of Cateura, Paraguay. In an effort to keep the kids from playing in the landfill, a local garbage picker and a local musician decided to bring music to the children of Cateura. They began searching the garbage with a new mission: to make instruments from the "trash" that is their livelihood.

The story that emerged is one of the most inspirational I've ever seen. Take a few minutes to watch the video that started it all and see how one innovative idea is changing so many lives with the Landfill Harmonic.

Now that you've seen the video, you're probably thinking, "What's next for the Landfill Harmonic?" Three production companies, along with their sponsors and partners, have come together to make a documentary about the story. Depending on the amount of money they raise, they're hoping to go further than just a movie. From instrument drives to educational workshops that teach kids to build their own recycled instruments, it is clear that the production companies and others involved have high hopes for how the Landfill Harmonic can inspire people around the world.

As do we.

Every dollar or minute of help counts. Spreading education and instruments to people around the world who otherwise don't have access is priceless. Please stay tuned, I anticipate big things coming from Landfill Harmonic and those who are doing everything they can to get their story heard.

This story is important, and I wanted to share it with you, our readers. See their website to donate or get involved. We did, and we hope you will too. http://www.landfillharmonicmovie.com/




Make sure to check back next Tuesday to see our next blog post, which highlights the life and celebrates the birthday (April 9th, 1887) of Florence Price, a composer whose story we should all know.


Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com

Music In Our Schools Month (March 2014)

The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) is one of the world's largest music education associations. Working from the local to national level, they provide a variety of resources for everyone from the student to the teacher.

We recently came across one of the programs NAfME operates, which is going on now. Music in Our Schools Month has been going on all of March, so we wanted to call attention to it before it's over. Here is a selection of some of the fun resources for you to explore.


Broader Minded: "A Complete Argument for Music Education," Broader Minded shows how music helps students in every part of life; from creativity to decision making.

Why Music?: Celebrity Public Service Announcements (PSAs) about the importance of music education, available for download for any use (in presentations, on the radio, etc.)

Performances: Seven malls throughout the US are sponsoring school performances. Visit this page to see if they're in your area, there's still several left before the end of the month. Let's give these kids an audience and show them that Music Matters!

These are just three of the exciting components of Music in Our School's Month. Visit the website for more resources and information!


Make sure to check back next week to see our next blog post, which is all about the amazing Landfill Harmonic.


Heather (iCA President)
www.InstrumentCareApparel.com