Not My First Rodeo...
In my nine years at W. B. Simpson I've been asked dozens of questions. Here are just a few that come up most often.
01
Do you teach piano/voice lessons, Mrs. Allen?
Sadly, no, I do not teach piano or voice privately. I do not have a practice space at the moment and am kept quite busy with the regular Simpson Music Program. If circumstances should change, I will inform you.
02
When should my child begin voice lessons?
There's no time like the present! Some voice teachers will suggest you wait until age 9, for developmental reasons. Others are just not that picky. I say, if they're ready for private lessons and all the practicing that comes with it, then go for it!
03
When will my child need a recorder?
Typically the age of beginning recorders is age 9 (about 3rd grade). I introduce recorders during the second half of third grade to be exact, because it gives little fingers a little more growing time. Yes, anyone who can count to three can play Hot Cross Buns, but having fingers that are wide enough to cover the holes is essential for success.
04
Where do I purchase a recorder and what kind should I get?
I love to throw business to B and B Music (route 13, opposite side of Camden Walmart). They're not expensive and they are the "correct" ones to get. They have seven holes, including the double holes at the bottom, and the holes are the correct sizes. That's right, not all holes are created equal.
05
What does audiate mean?
So you're child has come home using a new word. Great! To audiate means to hear something in one's head. In particular, I stress that the students try to hear something before they sing or chant it. This ensures that they are thinking about what they're performing instead of just going to auto-pilot.