submission
Building Bridges Through Music Education
Kristin Tjornehoj, Hudson
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Christopher Columbus reported to his king and queen that the world was round, and he went down in history as the man who first made this discovery. He had over one hundred men on his three ships: the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria. In Barcelona, Spain there is a monument celebrating his venture in 1492, when he sailed the ocean blue. Do you remember a song you learned about this in elementary music? Have you ever desired to visit this country and experience the rich musical culture? Students must learn about our global society and music is the perfect bridge to cross-cultural learning.
Today, the national bestseller, “The World is Flat” by Thomas L. Friedman contra- dicts the message of Christopher Colum- bus through his account of a world that is closer and more connected. After teaching music and having the honor of leading international tours, I am convinced the world is vast, regardless of it being round or flat, and people of all countries welcome relationships built through musical col- laboration and sharing. Bridges connect places and music connects people.
The Bridge to Europe
My passion for travel began when I was a junior in high school and I visited Europe on a ten- day tour with director Al G. Wright and the United States Collegiate Wind Band organized through Purdue University. It seemed strange that 75 students from all over the United States would have any significant role in per- forming concerts abroad, but I ventured oversees to find out more about other countries and cultures. The experience was positive in every respect and the term “rich” took on a new meaning. Richness now transcends financial wealth and secu- rity but rather is measured by experiences and relationships often built around music and musical events. Wealth is the accumu- lation of enough money to plan my next trip or adventure, usually accompanied by numerous young people. My Ph.D. advisor Stephen W. Schultz once asked me, “Why do you continue to travel with students when you could just experience the world by yourself?” My response was simple, I love teaching and sharing music and all experiences are multiplied when seen through the eyes of young people,
“Music is a universal language that transcends any borders or boundaries that exist.”
especially those traveling globally for the first time. The joy of witnessing the stereotypes dissolve and relationships growing is priceless.
The Bridge to the World
St. Croix Valley Community Band members prepare for touring the Czech Republic.
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Since my high school performance experi- ence in Europe, I have organized and led students on musical tours of China, Czech Republic, England, France, Iceland and Scotland. Music is a universal language that transcends any borders or boundaries that exist. You teach about the world and inspire students for life in a global society through travel and sharing music. Can this be accomplished without leaving the classroom? I believe the answer is yes, to some degree. The technology available today takes us anywhere in the world to experience life, ceremony, activities and people through a simple electronic search. For example, using search engines or purchasing documentaries for view- ing with your students in the classroom can validate interpretation of folk songs. Ensemble directors can also find arrange- ments or original compositions for nearly any country desired. Creating musical sharing opportunities is endless. To of- fer a deeper sense of cultural education, guest performers or lecturers can bring the world to your classroom. Exploring the literature, art and history in connec- tion with music enriches the experience even further. Classroom guests can bring photos, experience, costumes, native instruments, special performance and much, much more. Inspiration is the key to learning. Unveiling the world through cultural exploration is imperative for in-
April 2010
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