Service Learning 2

So our group got to go down to the service learning center a second time and this time we were a little more prepared. Not only did we know exactly what to expect, we also knew what worked and what didnt'. We opened the session up with a stretch followed by a Dalcroze exercise in order to get them moving. We knew they liked the Beatles so we stayed with the classics, Hey Jude and Yellow Submarine. The crowd remembered us and and the songs and got right involved. We also knew not to worry so much about teaching the lyrics, particularly for songs like yellow submarine. We were fortunate to have Will Snodgrass with us this time to help lead a percussion session for the second half. We passed out the instruments and Will directed the group to play either loud or soft according to his hand gestures. He also walked around the group pointing to people who he wanted to play. It was a good exercise because it got everybody to pay attention and focus on what the leader was doing.
Overall the experience was very positive. On a personal level it was quite rewarding to help cheer up the faces of these young less fortunate ones. You can tell that their motivation to participate and have fun is very high, much higher than your average fortunate high school student. I know I was like that. I think a greater lesson to learn from the whole experience is not to take for granted what you have, and that the best way to express this is through community service. We happen to be a group of musicians so it is only natural for us to lead a music session. I appreciate the efforts of my fellow group members and look forward to working with them in the future.
Ciao for now,
Brian