choral
transforms and challenges the singer’s ability to connect themselves to emotions. Music helps them challenge their feelings and in turn supports their overall mental health. The benefit of music education comes from the different perspectives that students bring to our classroom. When music educators capitalize on this, students thrive on all levels. Alexander’s poem and piece bring to light this oppor- tunity for music and music education to cultivate an independent music learner, and ultimately in the final performance, beauty.
“Trust the Seeds” by Elizabeth Alexander
Trust the seeds, although they lie in darkness, stirring beyond your watchful eye. Though they may not flower as you dreamed they would, When the planting’s over you must trust the seeds.
Some soon bloom to fill your heart with wonder, Some only after you are gone. You must give them freedom to grow as they should. Give them room to spread their roots, and trust the seeds.
In your heart you know that some may wither,
All you can do is hope and pray. Some will rise up grander than you dreamed they could. There is joy in planting if you trust the seeds.
While this may or may not resonate with you, the important message here, is to trust the seed you plant in each student every day. But like any seed each one is very different. In the twenty-first century we as music educators are called to a different approach to making music with our students. Inclusion is very different perhaps than what we have experienced in the past. Choral music is a great avenue to allow us to connect to every student. But
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in order to make connections we as educa- tors will have to cultivate our students to help them make decisions on what their needs are to be successful. One focus is on the mental health and well-being of our students. What better way to involve students in music making when we ap- proach music that involves students and their mental well being? And the blooms become; beautiful.
Reference:
Alexander, Elizabeth. (1995). “Trust the Seeds.” [SATB]. Seafarer Press/ SEA- 009-090
Shawn Gudmunsen is choir director at St. Croix Falls School District. Email:
gudmush@scfschools.com
MUSIC PERFORMANCE CENTER
2021
June 13 -19 & June 13 - 26
June 27 - July 10
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