Residencies

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This unique residency enlivens the entire school community and enriches its character education programs by engaging children in an exploration of how to be kind and caring human beings. Depending on the length of the residency, program activities can include singing, songwriting, building peace tambourines or friendship drums, creating peace murals or unity sculptures, and participating in service learning projects. Schools are given a free copy of Ruth Pelham’s “Room For Us All” CD and book, which include her original songs such as “Under One Sky,” “Love is All Around,” “The Meanies” and “Each of Us Is Kind.” Schools are encouraged to purchase multiple copies at a discounted price for each grade level or classroom so the children can learn Ruth’s songs in advance and be able to sing them with her at the gala concert that concludes the residency. A minimum of two days are preferred for this program and a week or more is suggested.  Grades K - 6

The “Let’s Write A Song” residency shares the same purpose as its workshop counterpart but provides more depth and participation because students spend more time with Ruth over period of days or weeks rather than in a one hour session. Using a songwriting process that encourages all voices to be heard, Ruth Pelham teaches students about the power of language, the craft of writing, and the basic elements of music - melody, rhythm and lyrics. Students learn about writing concepts such as narration, sequencing, intention, context, and fluidity, and also gain social skills in communication and group dynamics. Song topics are either provided by the staff to reinforce one or several curriculum units or school-wide themes, are chosen by the students through an animated brainstorming session, or are generated through a combination of both. Composed by one or several classes or by the entire school, the completed songs can be sung at morning program, school assemblies, or special events, and can help boost school spirit and self-esteem while building academic and social skills. This workshop integrates language arts, music and character education with social studies, science and other core curriculum areas.  Grades K - 6

 

Teaching children to work cooperatively, to help each other accomplish tasks, to share ideas and materials, and to appreciate each other’s creations are all part of this fun-filled character education through music residency.  Working in large and small groups, children build simple musical instruments made from recycled bottle caps, wood bits, cardboard boxes or paint sticks, and also sing songs about friendship, kindness and getting along.  These lessons further students understanding about recycling and reusing, and about caring for the Earth and our global family. A highlight of the workshop is when each child plays his or her instrument during the “Instrument Band Song” which is enthusiastically sung at the conclusion of the residency. All materials are prepared and supplied by Music Mobile.  Grades K – 4

When students want to know if being an artist is a “real” way to earn a living, or what it feels like to perform in front of hundreds of people, or what singing songs has to do with making a difference in the world, Ruth Pelham’s responses always serve as an inspiration for children.  During this song-filled residency, Ruth draws from her work as a songwriter, performer, recording artist, public speaker, educator, community organizer, and arts manager, and conveys the message that the job of being an artist requires being good at ones art form as well as in all of the skills that we learn in school - writing, reading, math, communicating, negotiating, problem-solving, and many more. Depending on the particular need of each school, this song-filled residency can be geared to topics such as career development, the arts, writing skills, music and performance, making life choices, and others.  Grades K - 12 

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| Assemblies and Concerts | Workshops | Residencies | Family & International Programs |
| Theme Days | Special Events | Service Learning | Keynote Addresses & Presentations |