by Alisabeth Hopper | Jul 21, 2016 | Parents, Resources, Services
Put simply an adaptive lesson is a lesson where an adaptation is necessary for the student to thrive in their lesson environment. Typically, we think of adaptive lessons as being directed to students with disabilities and diagnoses. Yes, we have students of all ages and abilities, and when we say all we mean all!
That being said, there are many students who may benefit from adaptive lessons who do not have a diagnosis, or may not have a lifelong diagnosis. The easiest way to think about this would be if a student wanted to learn piano, but was recovering from a severe hand injury, we would adapt the material provided so that the student is progressing regardless of the inability to use their hand.
You may be wondering… but, can’t any music teacher do this? What makes your lessons different? Well, it is true that there are many fantastic teachers out there. Our approach is a bit different in that we place our adaptive lessons with our music therapists! Our board certified music therapists have studied how music affects our brain, bodies, and how to apply it to induce a positive change. We have training in diagnoses and have an understanding of counseling skills. We can apply our non-musical training to any lesson to better help that child to succeed regardless of any other limiting factors.
We all carry around labels, positive or negative that affect how others see us, and how we see ourselves. But at lessons our students are students. With or without a diagnosis we are there to help them achieve their goals. Period.
by Rachel | Jul 20, 2016 | Business Bits, MTC, Resources
This week on Facebook Live, Katey and I talked about how we communicate and collaborate with one another and as a team of 10 here at Music Therapy Connections. We shared 4 mobile apps that we rely on for these purposes, which I’m outlining below so that you have the direct links at your fingertips.
As we mentioned in the video, Katey and I have very limited time to powwow together in the studio, which is why these apps come in so incredibly handy. The essentials in our technology toolbox include:
- Google Docs – We use Google docs and spreadsheets to collaborate on meeting notes, schedules, and various spreadsheets. The coolest feature is that you can edit a Google doc at the same time and see each others’ changes happening right in front of your eyes.
- Dropbox – this is our go-to tool for sharing and working on files together. To make this process as streamlined as possible, we use the same programs, apps and templates (such as Pages for Mac) so that there are no formatting issues.
- Trello – We are in LOVE with this project management app, which allows us to organize projects, ideas, and checklists.
When it comes to communicating as a team, our #1 tool is Slack. Some of the features include:
- group channels to talk about certain topics with specific team members
- file sharing within a group
- direct messaging & group messaging
Slack works very similarly to texting, because it shows up on your mobile device as well as within the web app. But what sets it apart is that it is searchable — so convenient! Slack has greatly reduced the amount of email we send within our team.
What are YOUR favorite tools for communicating and keeping all of your collaborative projects organized?
by Katey Kratz | Jul 12, 2016 | MTC, Reflections, Resources, Tips & Tricks, Videos
Songwriting is a huge part of everything we do here at Music Therapy Connections. Wether we are writing new songs for our Listen & Learn for Little Ones Classes, composing original tunes for our individual clients, or encouraging our students to create their own compositions; songwriting is engrained in what we do.
Sometimes, the hardest part of songwriting is simply getting started. I remember sitting down to write some of my first songs as a new professional and feeling so self-conscious that I could barely put pen to paper. Even now, developing materials to suit the needs of my clients can sometimes seem like a daunting task. Overcoming that self-doubt and learning how to let it flow can be a tricky process, so Rachel and I took a little time today to talk about our favorite methods for getting past those songwriting blocks and challenges.
Below are ALL 9 tips in our Facebook Live video earlier today along with some extra ideas to get you started.
Morning Pages – In the book “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron, the author describes the practice of morning pages: taking time every morning for free writing. Creating the practice of setting aside time and putting all of your thoughts on paper every morning without editing. This free flow of thoughts can be an excellent bridge to songwriting.
Topic Journaling – Pick a word or single topic to write 10 lines or sentences on. You do not have to write complete thoughts or sentences and can use any number of lines or sentences you choose. Selecting a single topic for free writing can be a helpful way to get started on song ideas. (BONUS: other methods I love using are word associations and mind mapping to get my creative juices flowing). The primary goal here is to open yourself up to ideas and just jot them down. Save the editing for later.
Going back to music you enjoy – Is there a song that makes you feel amazing? Are there songs you simply love? Go back and give them a listen. See if you can find out why you love them or what feels good. Use them as your inspiration. OR simply take time to enjoy music other people have created. Create a playlist for your life or put together a set of songs for how you are feeling. Spotify is a great resources for this adventure.
Enjoy Yourself – My best songs almost always come from positive experiences in other parts of my life. Go do something you love and enjoy your life. Keep your voice recorder handy though because you never know when that inspiration will strike.
This little app is my best friend.
Think of Songwriting as a Conversation – Talk with someone about your songwriting or say your lyrics out loud like you are talking to someone. Sometimes, even just talking through why you are struggling will help you get over that hump.
Go for a Walk – Get outside. Get some fresh air. Clear your mind. Walk away for a minute and change your scenery.
Don’t Force It – If you start to get frustrated, put it all aside and come back later. Literally, walk away. Thinking about something else for a little while can be just the solution you are looking for. Sometimes, a good night’s sleep is also incredibly helpful.
Be Present – Clear both your physical and mental space of clutter and create the space to be present in songwriting and creating. This is your time to be in the moment and create.
Share Your Song – Share what you’ve written with someone. ANYONE. This can be a single client, a co-worker, your child, a friend, your significant other, a family member, or even your pet. Sharing your creation out loud with someone provides new perspective and a sense of accomplishment.
(bonus) Record your creation. The method could be a video, a simple voice recording, a full recording, etc. How you record does not matter. Capture what you have accomplished so you can listen later, remember what you’ve done, and visit your work in the future. Take a moment to listen and appreciate what you’ve created. Take pride in your accomplishment and give yourself some praise!
What are your favorite tips for starting the songwriting process? We’d love to hear from your and share your ideas with everyone!
by Rachel | Jun 30, 2016 | Materials & Supplies, MTC, Resources
Have we mentioned that we LOVE movement props? You may have noticed that if you’ve seen our photos, browsed our songs, or attended our groups and sessions. We’ve written countless songs specifically for our FAVORITE movement props from none other than Bear Paw Creek, and we were recently inspired to compile 12 of those songs into a songbook.
The songbook is made up of 4 sections, one for each of the different movement props — bean bags, stretchy bands, balloon balls, and scarves — for which the songs were written. We made a video earlier this week to share details about those props, which you can watch right here.
Not only do you receive the lyrics and chords for each song, but we are also including the recordings and a leader’s guide with tips and instructions for implementing the songs right away.
But here’s the most exciting part of this new release: now through Tuesday, July 5, not only will you receive Songs for Movement Props, but you’ll also get our multimedia songbook Counting Through the Seasons ($17 value) AND be automatically entered to win our giveaway of ALL the movement props listed above from Bear Paw Creek. We’ll be announcing the winner and delivering both digital songbooks to those who have ordered on Tuesday.
We want to send a HUGE thank you to Janet Stephens, the owner of Bear Paw Creek, for not only being such an enthusiastic supporter of our work but also for so generously offering this giveaway. So many music therapists and educators use and benefit from her products, and we are proud to be among them!
Okay, so let’s recap: when you preorder Songs for Movement Props now through Tuesday for just $14, you’ll get a bonus songbook and have the chance to win an amazing set of Bear Paw Creek movement props. If you’re on the fence, make sure to watch our video where we talk in depth about the songbook, props and awesome giveaway.
by Katey Kratz | Jun 24, 2016 | Class Registration, Parents, Services
Next week we have a very special mini-camp happening!!
I am so excited to have the opportunity to share my love of music and playing hand drums during the 3 DAYS of drumming camp!
This isn’t your typical drum-set style drumming! No drumsticks or experience needed! The group is open to people of all abilities and levels of musical experience. Whether you are looking to just have fun, learn something new, or add to your current skills, we would love to have you join the group! Over the 3 days, group members will:
- explore different kinds of drums
- play rhythm instruments from around the world
- learn basic hand drumming techniques
- become familiar with simple rhythmic patterns
- play instruments in a group
- learn a few ways to lead a drum circle
- improvise on a variety of percusion instruments
- and build confidence
Not only is hand drumming and participating in a drum circle a fun experience, it’s also a great way to make new friends, build relationships, work on focused attention and listening, learn new skills, relax, and more. The hour-long group will be from 6:30 – 7:30 pm June 28th, 29th, and 30th. I hope to see lots of new and familiar faces!
by Alisabeth Hopper | Jun 14, 2016 | Materials & Supplies, MTC, Tips & Tricks
I love exploring music with my clients, but being musical doesn’t always have to mean holding an instrument or tapping a drum. By bringing in different manipulatives, even non-musical ones, we can utilize three dimensional visuals, attend to sensory needs, and even save a few dollars. Which, let’s face it, is always a plus!
Stuffed animals are fantastic for working on counting, animal identification, and motor skills. Whether it be “Ten Little Monkeys Jumping On The Drum”, or “Down on Grandpa’s Farm” stuffed animals can be used to facilitate academic topics while utilizing fine and gross motor skills.
What I love most about stuffed animals as manipulatives is that they cater to sensory needs. They incline a client to squeeze them, push and pull them, and self-monitor their sensory needs. When I know that a client has additional sensory needs I like to give them ideal options and ways to fulfill those needs, and self-monitor those needs all while addressing the goal area and specific objectives. I like to bring multiple textures, densities, and overall options as possible. Its all about choice, and seeing when the sensory options are a comfort versus a distraction.
Stuffed animals are just one of the many ways that we can think outside the box to provide a broad encompassing care for our clients and students. They are easily accessible and available in a variety of textures, colors, and characters. I would consider stuffed animals one of my must haves in my music therapy materials kit! What about you? How do you think out of the box for your students and clients?
by Katey Kratz | Jun 4, 2016 | About Listen & Learn for Leaders, Materials & Supplies, MTC, Resources
Last fall, we began increasing the number of early childhood classes we offer. We split the classes into age groups but also offer groups with mixed ages. Though we use the same curriculum across all of the classes in one session, you will find that every group is just a little different. Each class has it’s own unique mix of participants that make it a little different from any other group even if other groups have the same ages, genders, etc.
This means ADAPTING and often on the fly. I, personally, teach both our Wednesday and Thursday night classes. Though I use the same materials for both classes, the presentation looks a little different each night. My Wednesday night class tends to be a little more active so I change the order of songs slightly, create additional verses for our movement songs, and ask more questions of group members. My Thursday night class is often more reserved and will sit for a long stretch of time. I use this to my advantage and take a longer time reading our book or singing our counting songs.
I LOVE all of the material we create and like to use them with my individual students and clients as well, adapting them even more as we go. Our newest book, “Counting Through the Seasons” was initially developed for our early childhood classes though all of our therapists have now adapted the songs to work on a variety of goals. In our newest “extra” going out to our VIP members and being added to the “Counting Through the Seasons” download, I describe 9 ways our seasonal counting songs can be adapted to work on goals aside from counting to five and how they can be changed to fit multiple seasons.
The price of the book (“Counting Through the Seasons”) will increase on Friday, June 10th.
Be sure to download your copy at a discounted price today!
by Alisabeth Hopper | Jun 2, 2016 | Parents, Resources
At Music Therapy Connections, we work with students of all ages and abilities. Based upon those things we can place a new student into the best situation for their growth, whether that be a class, lesson, or adaptive lesson. I think I can speak for our team when I say that it brings us great joy to know that we can provide services for the entire family — from newborns to grandparents!
Many parents want to know, how do you know when a child is ready for lessons? Here are three things we look for to find your young learner the best fit.
1. When it comes to both piano and guitar lessons, it is very important that a student can count to four, visually identify letters A through G, and preferably be able to identify their left hand from right. All of these are important foundational skills to build on in lessons.
2. For any kind of lesson it is important to ask, “Can my student be engaged with one activity for thirty minutes?” This can be a challenge for many four to six year olds beginning lessons.
3. Finally, we don’t usually begin guitar lessons until the age of at least seven. Why? Well, unlike with piano, a new learner needs to have large enough hands to be able to form chords with proper technique so that they don’t injure themselves. Guitar can also test a new student’s patience as it can even be painful when first beginning. For our future guitarists under the age of seven, we recommend starting with piano and growing a nice framework of knowledge to build on later.
In general, if a child is still growing in one of these areas or has additional needs, we would consider their lessons adaptive. This is because we are adapting our approach, creating different materials, and utilizing multiple mediums to provide them with the best lesson experience possible, regardless of their prior knowledge and experience.
Is your child ready for lessons? Click here to learn more and register for the summer session.
by Rachel | May 19, 2016 | Class Registration, Parents, Services
As the school year winds down, we have been busy planning a variety of exciting classes, camps and programs for the summer. Here’s a quick rundown of everything we’re offering; simply click the images for details and registration info.
Learn hand drumming techniques, rhythmic patterns, how to lead drum circles, and much more in this dynamic summer camp with MTC co-owner and drumming enthusiast Katey Kamerad.
Learn the songwriting process, hone your style as a songwriter, record your creations, and much more in this dynamic summer camp with MTC co-owner and accomplished songwriter Rachel Rambach.
Music is for everyone, no matter what your ability. Instrument play, socialization, movement, and creativity are at the heart of this dynamic summer camp with board-certified music therapist Janel Metzger.
Join us for a variety of musical activities featuring popular music from the 1950s-70s that will encourage moving, singing, playing and socializing. We utilize preferred familiar music to provide a full range of activities & research-based interventions.
Our flagship class is designed for children ages 0-3, and led by our board-certified music therapists. Each 45-minute class combines movement, singable stories, and group instrument play.
Join us for this FREE family event, featuring 25 of our “greatest hits” over the past year. We’re offering two day and time options to accommodate all families. All participants receive a free download of the songs included in the singalong.
It’s going to be a busy but wonderful summer in our studio! We’re looking forward to welcoming lots of new families and students, as well as sharing our experiences right here on the blog and in our brand-new live video series on the Facebook page!
by Alisabeth Hopper | May 17, 2016 | Materials & Supplies, Parents
This year I have had the pleasure of working with some of our youngest pianists and helping them grow in their skills. With this has come many questions about which piano is right for a given student and how to know where to begin the purchase process as a parent. Those questions have inspired this beginner piano buyer’s guide!
Number of Keys- These can vary but the most common is a 61-key and an 88-key. These are measured by how many keys are on the piano. A 61-key keyboard is smaller and will be lower in cost and vice-versa for an 88-key. Eventually a student will need an 88-key piano or adapt music, but this doesn’t need to happen until book 2 or 3.
Brand Name- The most common brand names offering affordable keyboards are Yamaha and Casio. These are both wonderful and reliable brands. With these you can’t go wrong.
Accessories- There are so many accessories that can be used with your keyboard here are a few that you should consider:
- Piano Bench or Seat- these are usually adjustable along with the height of the keyboard.
- Keyboard Stand- Most keyboards come with a stand. I would recommend checking to make sure because this is a must!
- Music Stand- Keyboards should come with a music stand, attached to the top of the keyboard to hold music at a comfortable level. Once again, this is a must have.
- Weighted Keys and Key Size- Key size is very important. You should check to see that they haven’t slimmed the keys on your keyboard to provide for ease of transition from practice to lessons and performance. Also, there are a large variety of keyboards out there that have weighted keys. Weighted keys require more resistance when playing to more closely relate to the feel an acoustic piano.
Altogether your choice will largely depend upon whether you would like to get a starter piano or something more long term. I still use my 88-Key keyboard that I started my piano journey with 12 years ago. My recommendation would be, if it is within your price range, to invest in an 88-key keyboard. You don’t need an upright piano, or a keyboard with all of the bells and whistles to give your child what they need to excel in their music lessons.
Best of luck in your piano buying journey!
