Re: Where's the Ruach?

[Felsings <Felsings...>]

Dear Jeff and all Others  from Hanashir,

I have been the Cantorial Soloist/Songleader in our congregation for over 20
years, I did start when I was in High School.  I have only been teaching
music in our religious school for 3 1/2 years.  In the past we always had
another congregant teach music, she retired and here I am.  Enough history,
 I find my 4th and 5th graders somewhat hesitant at times to participate.
 However after a day like today I'm on cloud nine.
Our Synagogue's music program encompasses a lot of ground which is very
intertwined - here goes - We have family services the 1st Friday of every
month and a class is assigned to participate.  December will feature the 6th
grade.  Anyway, in music class they learn service music which they will then
stand on the Bima with me to sing.  I also try to find an appropriate song to
go with each of their Torah portions and they learn that, and sing after the
Sermon,  you would be surprised at what giving them a goal of "performing"
 will do for their sense of Ruach.  I also have a rule in all my music
classes K through 5th grades  -  If you do not participate Miss Felicia makes
you sing a solo. (I usually remind them of my rule when they start to loose
touch with what we are doing)  even the Kindergarteners know the rule.  I
also, based on each classes curriculum decide which prayers are appropriate
for them to be singing at their service.  I do make sure they like the music
we are singing, for instance we don't just do the traditional Sh'ma we sing
Craig Taubman's "Master of All Things" ( I added the Baruch Shaym so it would
fit our service).  It's up beat and the Kids love it. The only class that I
allow to sing the 2nd verse (which is fast) is the 2nd grade, otherwise it's
just the first verse.  After singing this at Service for about a year the
whole congregation knows it and they all sing.  The 5th graders will sing
Debbie Friedmans' "Mi Shebeirach"  this year,  But I explain the importance
of praying for those who are ill and how it can be used in their everyday
lives and they  LOVE having the chance to be a part of this special prayer.
I really believe it comes down to making sure you show these children you
love them, and respect them and EXPECT them to love each other and respect
each other and they will not only love and respect you but they will
SING!!!!!