“I’ve got a resource that helps build a solid foundation for my students.”
By Kristin Clark Taylor
A Classroom Where Freedom Flows
When Marcus Johnson talks about the tremendous growth that occurs in his classroom whenever he uses QuaverMusic, he’s not just referring to the growth and development of his students.
He’s also talking about the deep sense of self-discovery and growth that he himself experiences, on both a personal and professional level.
Johnson, a music specialist at Hemmenway Elementary in Katy, Texas, has been using Quaver as a classroom resource for many years — yet he says he’s constantly uncovering new aspects of the curriculum that strengthen his own relationship with and connection to music.
“Even though I am a specialist, I still don’t know it all,” he readily concedes.
“Quaver is constantly introducing concepts and techniques to me that I didn’t really have the opportunity to experience in my own music upbringing – and of course I pass these insights right on to my students!”
Johnson, also a singer, music producer, songwriter, and recording artist, says that making use of the extensive Quaver curriculum has sharpened all of his musical skills.
“Music is in my DNA,” he says with a smile in his voice, “and I’m lucky to have found a resource that taps into that passion and allows me to pass that passion directly on to my students. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
The multifaceted educator takes the task of reaching and teaching his students very seriously, and he does everything in his power to ensure that he brings the power of music into their lives in a way that is impactful and enduring.
Johnson says Quaver helps tremendously in this effort.
“Hemmenway is a Title One school,” he explains, “so I’m going to create as many opportunities as I possibly can to make sure my students have a close, hands-on experience with music. It is what they need.”
Nurturing a powerful, personal relationship with music, Johnson says, is essential to a child’s growth and development, and he considers himself fortunate to have found a resource “that helps build a solid foundation for my students.”
Johnson’s third-graders, for example, love the recorder lessons.“They’re so excited about experimenting with the recorder and learning how to control their bodies and their breath in order to get that perfect sound!”
Marcus Johson in his classroom at Hemmenway Elementary in Katy, Texas, says Quaver’s popular recorder lessons are “a definite favorite”!
Johnson believes that the very depth and breadth of Quaver’s robust curriculum is something to sing about.
The seemingly inexhaustible selection of songs and lessons lets this amazing educator teach the way he wants to teach, which is itself the very definition of creative freedom.
“Quaver gives me a taste of everything,” Johnson says.
If he needs to quickly familiarize himself with a musical concept or principle in a hurry, “Quaver is right there to provide a crash course! They really care about their educators.”
The fact that he can so easily use Quaver to complement and customize his own lesson plans helps maximize the teaching (and learning) experience.
“Quaver gives me the freedom to teach all different aspects of music—not just one,” he says. “Whether I’m looking for a lesson that helps teach my students how to sing in a chorus, learn the basic chords of the guitar, or how to read music—the list goes on and on—it’s all in there!”
A Meaningful Message to Educators
Marcus has a message for educators who are new to Quaver or who might be thinking about bringing the resource into their school:
“Quaver is not designed to replace you,” he says with his trademark passion and sense of purpose.
“It’s a resource that is designed to assist you, and to help you become the best teacher you can possibly be.”
A few more important words of wisdom:
“To my fellow colleagues out there who might be anxious about the sheer volume of material that Quaver contains, do not be overwhelmed,” he cautions.
“Take it piece by piece. The more comfortable you feel using Quaver in your classroom, the better you can serve your entire school community.”
Clearly, Johnson’s journey with Quaver sings a joyful song and proves a powerful point to educators everywhere: Quaver provides everything you need.
There’s no need to look anyplace else.
For more information on how to get Quaver into your school, visit QuaverEd.com/Music.
Kristin Clark Taylor is an author and a journalist.
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