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John, 5th grade, violin
John was a cheeky four year-old who didn’t know any English when he started school at EK Powe Elementary. He is a sweet, if somewhat mischievous 5th grader now. When his younger brother joined KidZNotes last year as a Kindergartener, it was obvious that John desperately wanted to play music too.
This year, John became a student-leader in KidZNotes. One day during a KidZNotes rehearsal, John began to complain that class was boring, that music was for “babies”. It was clear John needed more, so he was invited to take on more responsibility. He became a class leader by assisting the kindergarteners, helping to set up materials for class, and leading by example.
John took his new role to heart and soon started quietly moving around the room, correcting violin postures and tying shoes. When a student took too long at the water fountain, John ushered that child back to join in the music making. It wasn’t long before this new-found maturity carried over into his playing; now he wants to practice, have private lessons with our violin tutors, and was thrilled to debut his first mastered musical scale to the class!
John’s family noticed the difference in his behavior. Last year, his family struggled, moving their home twice in one year, and John was being treated for depression. This year, John’s mother credits KidZNotes for giving him a greater sense of responsibility. In just a few short months, John has become cheerful and motivated. His family has become closer – John’s father has taken an interest in his boys’ musical talent and the whole family is making time to attend concerts and KidZNotes events together.
KidZNotes provides free classical, orchestral music training to 110 children in East Durham just like John. We’re building a supportive family of leaders and creative children. This holiday season, as you consider your year-end giving, we hope you’ll consider giving the gift of music today.
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