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Lorna Zemke: What a Sister!

Deborah Jeter

When we teach music, we should always use accurate and correct musical terms and vocabulary. Don't use non-musical definitions. The reason the sequence begins with rhythm is because it is the strongest and most natural urge of the child. When the child begins the melodic training, we are to teach S0-MI first because it is the easiest interval.
We are so ecletic that we sometimes end up not teaching. We need a sound foundation. Too many ideas and non-solidified concepts will be confusing. It requires great discipline. We should want to be teaching good music education not Kodaly and Orff. Kodaly and Orff are "means to an end". Teach children to be sensitive to music. There is no control to spiritual experiences. We should not tamper with a child's musical experience. Music is not programatic, it is personal. Children need to have enjoyable musical experiences. Act like you think the things you teach are the greatest things there are. It helps to build enthusiam in them towards what they are learning. Teach your students how great and wonderful their bodies are by showing them all the wondrous things it can do by moving to music. You can create a great respect in them for their bodies through dance. Let the children "experience 1st, then intellectualize, later". After they have already experienced a concept without knowing what they were doing, it is internalized and they have ownership. In closing: One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is music. Sister Lorna Zemke has shown me through her dedication and great love for music education that teaching is truly a most honorable profession. Music keeps us young. Music is the language of the spirit. Music. Treat yourself well today and go to a concert, sing in the shower, dance and enjoy life through the gift of music.

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