How often do you think your students spend time with their favourite Chill Out piece? Once in a while? Every now and then? All the time? Whenever it’s convenient? Never - they don’t have any Chill Out pieces.
For July and August 2024, I’ve decided to encourage Chill Out Music Making as the theme for my students summer music activities. Just imagine - students going to the piano and playing whatever piece they think is appropriate, whenever they want, and for how long they feel is the right amount. All summer long.
I appreciate how students’ Chill Out pieces come in all sizes and shapes. Their oldest piece - the one that requires the least effort to play. Their newest piece - the one that has the least history to it. Their easiest piece - the one they can do without thinking for even a second. Their hardest piece - the one that will take every ounce of concentration they can muster. Their unexpected piece - the one that randomly shows up on Youtube. Their always-wanted-to-play piece - the one they’ve been hearing for years at concerts.
Different days may require different Chill Out pieces, because students have lots of personal reasons for going to the piano. Students may spend time at the piano for entertainment. Music making can boost their energy. Students might be looking for a distraction. Or there are days when it’s good to take on a challenge. Of course, music making is always available as friend and anchor.
Where is all this going?
My purpose for encouraging Chill Out Music Making Summer is because I want students to get in the habit of making music for themselves. I want to empower students to experience music making on their own terms so that when they reach adulthood, they’ll naturally include music making in their personal routines. The summer months are a great place to set up students for their own future of music making. I’m excited to see what will happen over the summer months as students explore their Chill Out pieces.
How do you feel about a Chill Out Music Making Summer for your students?
What do you think will happen?
Are you ready to give it a go?
