[Gathnet] Big Musical Surprise at the Gathman Household

[Jonathan Gathman]

Greetings,
   I have something fun to write about that will warm the hearts of the 
homeschool parents, and grandparents.

   Lauren has had an interest in Violin, and I started to teach her, but 
I ran into the same problem that Daddy did while working on algebra with 
  me.  I had gotten a poor grade, and Dad thought, "I can't believe the 
son of the physicist can have a hard time with Math.  I must be slipping 
up".  So he proceeded to work on my assignment with me.  The problem 
was, algebra was kindof like breathing to him.  While I needed to know 
how to precede step by step, and understand basic concepts, Dad was 
pretty much stymied in teaching at that level.  Obviously, it wasn't a 
case of not understanding it, but of understanding it to such a degree 
he couldn't communicate it to a newbie.

   Anyway, I was getting some good bows, and some good sound, but I 
totally missed the fact that Lauren was not really understanding how to 
read the notes.

   So Jacqui and I decided to take a break on Violin, while she worked 
on piano for reading skills, planning to take up violin after 
stabilizing some basic music skills.

   The surprise today, was that Jacqui ordered some violin materials, 
and, always while I was away at work, worked on them with Lauren while 
Jacqui worked on my violin.  I was so surprised and pleased, I didn't 
mind so much that Jacqui put tape on my violin's finger board.. ;) (a 
common practice for newbies learning where to put fingers).

   So I was treated by Lauren creating a concert program, and Jacqui 
playing right along.

   As you might suspect, Jacqui did quite well too, though she expressed 
admiration for string players, since there's a lot more to do with arms, 
hands, etc, and also, she keeps trying to control the tone of the violin 
with her breathing muscles that she uses for her flute... ;)

   In any case, I'm pleased because Lauren has a good way forward until 
she's at a place where I can help her progress as a stringed instrument 
player.  Kudos to Jacqui for jumping in on an unfamiliar instrument and 
doing a good job!


-- 
Jonathan Gathman
"Think, Speak and Do Well"
Urquhart Family Crest