Institute Day One

Macy and I had fun yesterday, although it was quite a long day. Registration was at 9:30, where we received our packet with our schedule of classes on it. Next we headed into the auditorium for the Play-ins. All the children go on stage, and if you know the song that they're playing, you play along. If not, you sit down. Each song was led by a different Faculty member, and some of them did some really fun games with the kids.

Our first class was Music Theory games on the computer. They're using a fun program called Music Ace Maestro (I believe). It says ages 8-adult on it, so I don't feel too guilty helping Macy with some of the tasks. There was a difficult rhythm one I helped her with today. She usually does really well on the pitch recognition and differentiation games. Mrs. Dalgleish is the teacher for that class.

We sat and observed a late Book One class, and then an early Book Two class. They were both really fun- especially the one by Robert Richardson, the Crazy Canuck... (that's what he calls himself). He's got a lot of personality and has a lot of fun with the kids. Macy especially enjoyed watching him, in between her coloring/playtime break.

Our second class yesterday was our Master Class. There were four children for Mrs. Yong to spend about 10-15 minutes with each. Macy tried to play Lightly Row, but somehow went into Song of the Wind, and then finished up Lightly Row. I was trying not to laugh, but it was cute- she just kept playing... didn't even realize the mistake she was making. She did mention it to me on the way home, though, so I know that she knew that it wasn't quite right. Mrs. Yong gave her some bowing exercises to work on.

We thoroughly enjoyed the Jenny Oaks Baker concert. She is playing again sometime soon at the Assembly Hall on Temple Square. I'll try to find the info and post it. Jenny gave us an assortment of dance pieces that were varied and fun together. I think she's playing basically the same program at the other venue, so I really recommend that you try to make it to that.

Yummy bbq beef sandwiches, fruit, chips, drinks, and Creamies were the end of our lovely first day... all included in the price of registration. I hope you all are able to attend next year- I know that your children will greatly benefit from the experience!