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A rewarding part of my work is visiting schools and introducing the accordion and traditional music to younger generations. I am an active member of the Arts in Education roster of the NH State council on the Arts and I’m regularly called to visit schools and give various programs.
The photo gallery above is from a school visit in Epping, NH. An artist in education residency at Epping elementary school, Epping, NH where students learned about immigration and accordion 101. The history of the instrument was discussed, one was taken apart to show what’s happening on the inside, and students heard a demonstration of various musical styles. Over 400 elementary school aged children tried 3 different types of accordions in 5 days: piano accordion, button box, and the Indian harmonium.
Each school has different needs and I’ve given short presentations and school assemblies to residencies lasting several days. I demonstrate the diversity of the instrument then have each student try 4 different types of accordions.
Themes that have been emphasized are teaching history through music, immigration, composing school songs, and seeking one’s passion. I even worked with a school to write and record a radio show for their school’s time capsule.