Passover and Easter are two major observances of Judaism and Christianity. This year the first night of Passover occurs on April 8th and Easter arrives on Sunday, April 12th. With various levels of social and physical restrictions currently in place across the world due to COVID-19, these holidays will feel very different this year. Attending a service at your church or traveling to a Seder are likely not possible nor safe. Even gathering with close
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Come drum with us and welcome in the New Year at this Community Drum Circle. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED/Instruments are provided. What better way to welcome the first day of 2020 then to connect with others through making music and laughter. This circle is led by Michelle Montgomery Muth, MT-BC, music therapist and trained drum circle facilitator. Whether you are new to drum circles or a veteran, Michelle's job is to make everyone feel comfortable and
Read moreFor me, the year starts to wind down when Daylight Savings Time ends. The shorter days and long dark nights naturally cause me to start reflecting on the year that is coming to a close. The last leaves are falling, winter jackets are coming out of the closet, and in front of the fireplace is my favorite place to be. Thanksgiving to New Year’s is a blur of activity. To me, this short time between
Read moreThe room was arranged with chairs in a circle and a drum at each chair. Some staff were hesitant, while others moved quickly to try out a drum. As people found their seats, a few shyly trying out the drums and small percussion, there was a sense of anticipation coupled with skepticism. “What are we going to do with drums?” “How will banging on drums help us to work better together?” Others enthusiastically embraced the
Read moreMusic For Veterans Music and the military go hand in hand. Historically, music has been integral to the military experience, from bugle calls that summon one awake in the morning, to cues for when to charge or retreat in battle, to "lights out." While the modern military may use different formats, music is still an integral component of one's military experience from the inspirational marches performed by military bands, to the reverence we feel upon
Read moreThere was a time in our history when being part of a singing group was common. Many people were part of their church choir, legion hall chorus, barbershop quartet, or even just holiday caroling group. Before it was possible to access professionally recorded music 24/7 at the touch of a button, we were all musicians. Singing was part of everyday life, and families would gather around the piano after dinner or share folk songs by
Read moreThe holidays can be a joyous or a stressful time of year. Most often, it is both. Trying to juggle holiday traditions, workplace expectations, gift buying, decorating and cooking, along with the daily demands of modern life quickly becomes overwhelming. These feelings can intensify if you have young kids, elderly parents, or family members with special needs. You’ve heard many times how important self care is. But sometimes, a self care practice can feel like
Read moreWhen you hear the phrase “drum circle,” what comes to mind? A group of 20-somethings with dreadlocks and sandals sitting on the beach? Native or Indigenous peoples participating in a sacred tradition? A 1960’s hippy commune? How about a group of business executives at a work retreat, or a group of family caregivers? "Drum circles are not really about drumming. They are about feeling good and connecting with other people through a powerful, shared experience."
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Somewhere right now, a mother is singing to her newborn daughter. A little boy is humming softly to himself as he plays with his toys. A grandmother is sharing the sounds of her native language with her grandchild through songs her mother taught to her. Two children are playing a clapping game on the playground and several others are chanting schoolyard rhymes. This soundtrack of early childhood could be happening in any country, any neighborhood.
Read moreEarly childhood is a time of wonder, exploration, and growth. The first few years of life have a tremendous and lasting impact on learning, brain development, and physical & mental health. It is estimated that during these formative years, the human brain forms one million new neural connections every second. These connections become the foundation upon which future learning is built. Do you remember the Mozart Effect? A phenomenon when it was published back in
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