Hello dear readers,
On August 18, I held an improvisation workshop for music teachers at Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf. Several teachers had expressed their desire to participate for several years in some cases.
I am always amazed to observe the group effect and intimacy that are created within a proposed activity. We warm up, take risks, communicate with another participant and quietly, the magic happens. Laughter, sometimes a little embarrassment. You slide towards inner listening, in search of a melody or the draft of a rhythmic pattern, while keeping in touch with the other participants around you. We leave aside any judgment towards ourselves and others. Make way for freedom of musical expression!
Throughout the day, I gave teachers several ways to integrate improvisation into teaching, gleaned over time both in my training at Music For People (musicforpeople.org) and through the discovery of certain methods. Throughout my improvisation journey, my students have allowed me to see what works for everyone, in this or that context. I will always be grateful for this approach of Music For People that allowed me to free the musician in me and help others do the same.
A participant’s comment reinforces my passion for conducting workshops:
“The improvisation training arrived just right and gave me the boost I needed. It flows like a small stream. I find lots of ideas, naturally and easily. Children are even happier, it’s perfect happiness.” Christiane Boucher, director of “The Christiane Boucher musical workshops”
To you, dear readers, I wish you to release your inner music, there is no better gift to give yourself.
Beautiful autumn to all!
Josée