Mamacita says: Back in the day (when dinosaurs roamed the earth) every American student knew hundreds of songs, all the same songs, for the most part. Every Wednesday morning, kids all over the town would gather in their school’s auditorium, … Continue reading
Mamacita says: I’ve always liked this quotation. I also believe it is absolutely true. I think about it whenever I’m feeling particularly cowardly. It helps me overcome it. Words help me overcome it. I’ve always stood in awe before the … Continue reading
Mamacita says: It worries me that so many of our students don’t have enough schema to make simple connections – at least, what were once considered simple connections. You know. Those people, places, events, and stories that EVERYBODY knows? … Continue reading
Elizabeth Bishop Sonnet I am in need of music that would flow Over my fretful, feeling finger-tips, Over my bitter-tainted, trembling lips, With melody, deep, clear, and liquid-slow. Oh, for the healing swaying, old and low, Of some song sung … Continue reading
Mamacita says: Beethoven and Rodin would never make it in an American public school these days. Neither would Lincoln, or Clara Barton, or Thomas Jefferson. Nor Einstein. Or Edison. Administrators have forgotten that ultimately, our culture will be judged on … Continue reading
Mamacita says: Glee makes me want to sing. Glee even has the power to make me think I CAN sing. But that’s beside the point. When I watch Glee, I switch back and forth with my point of view. Sometimes, … Continue reading