Friday, January 14, 2011

The Heart Of A Teacher

I received an email this morning from Mac Anderson ~ Founder, Simple Truths ~ about a wonderful book entitled "Heart of a Teacher" by Paula Fox.  During the past 39 years of honing my skills and career as a professional musician, Music Director, owner of Starbound Studios, and teacher, this excerpt struck a particular chord with me.  I strive to walk in these shoes.

I too was privileged to have an extremely influential teacher who paved the way for me to grow into the person I'm becoming today, and tomorrow, and the next day...  her name was "Miss Parker".  She was my high school music teacher.  I have long since lost track of her, but what she 'taught' me was much more than music, and will last a lifetime -- mine, and my students.  She made my modest musical abilities seem, and feel, very special, for that I will always be grateful.  As an adult, with a musical career that I've loved, the only regret is that I've been unable to locate her to thank her and tell her how much she meant to me and how much "more" she taught me than just the love of music.

So, on a personal note, if anyone out there knows a, formerly named, "Miss Parker", who taught music at Westway High School, who loved to sing and play the piano, the "Beatles" was her favorite specialty, who married and had, at least, one child, and lived in a beautiful, secluded, log cabin at one time, please let her know I dedicate this article and reference to her, a very special lady.  I would love to reconnect with her.

~ To Miss Parker ~ From the bottom of my heart, a very special Thank You, Thank You, Thank You ~

"Paula Fox's a teacher with 35 years experience teaching and leading all ages from preschool through adult. Her book, Heart of a Teacher is an inspirational masterpiece! The stories, the quotes and Paula's beautiful original poetry will grab the heart of any teacher, or anyone whose life has been influenced by a teacher.  Today, I'd like to share the beautiful true story about Mark Eklund, which was written by Sister Helen Mrosla. I'm betting it's one you won't forget!"

Click on the link below to read
An Excerpt from the book
"The Heart of a Teacher" by Paula Fox https://mail.google.com/mail/#inbox/12d7f76c4bf05f23


Mac Anderson ~ Founder, Simple Truths

MAC ANDERSON is the founder of Simple Truths and Successories, Inc., the leader in designing and marketing products for motivation and recognition. These companies, however, are not the first success stories for Mac. He was also the founder and CEO of McCord Travel, the largest travel company in the Midwest, and part owner/VP of sales and marketing for Orval Kent Food Company, the country's largest manufacturer of prepared salads.

His accomplishments in these three unrelated industries provide some insight into his passion and leadership skills. He also brings the same passion to his speaking where he speaks to many corporate audiences on a variety of topics, including leadership, motivation and team building.

Mac has authored or co-authored twelve books, which have sold more than 3 million copies. They include: 212°...The Extra Degree, Change is Good...You Go First, You Can't Send a Duck to Eagle School, The Power of Attitude, The Essence of Leadership, The Nature of Success, The Dash, Charging the Human Battery, Finding Joy, Customer Love, Motivational Quotes and Learning to Dance in the Rain.

For more information, visit http://www.simpletruths.com/


How To Choose A Professional Music Instructor

By Music Masters Canada

Choose a Teacher


You’ve chosen your instrument, and the genre (kind of music). Now what? How do I FIND A MUSIC TEACHER? You’re in the right place.

A good teacher is worth their weight in gold. They will help you to discover if your choices are right for you.

7  THINGS to do, ask, consider:

Talk by phone. Ask their level of training and experience.

Ask them their expectations, and tell them yours.

Ask for references. Two is good.

Ask for their cancellation policy.

Ask for their payment policy.

Ask about guests sitting in on lessons on occasion. (FYI: Most will allow it occasionally, but probably won’t encourage it on a regular basis, as it’s distracting for the student.)

Meet ’n Greet, and trust your instincts. If it’s not a good fit, then move on to the next one...



Brenda McDooling Duce
Music Director, Starbound Studios
Wasaga Beach, Ontario
Photo Copyright 2010 Starbound Studios
http://musicmasterscanada.com/?page_id=19