FOR THE KIDS (AND A STAFF PICK!)
Dear Friends,
We've likely all had the experience of witnessing a child's sense of wonder when presented with something for the first time. The innocence combined with a moment of novelty is an incredible thing to behold. From the neuroscience world we know how much our brains like this throughout our entire lives. We hear about how travel to new places is good for our brains and how learning is terrific for us in any shape or form. In the first year of my time here at SSM I met Mabel, then 89 years old, telling me she was just beginning to learn how to play the ukulele. The glee in her voice gave me the impression she was actually 6 or 7!
A few years ago, this video clip below went viral showing a young toddler hearing a violin for the first time. Take a look:
And another one here where a fiddler went to a small village and played Orange Blossom Special to a host of children who had never heard it before. Check out their reaction:
About 10 years ago I was taking part in a children's concert where the pianist played a short piece of music that ended with her plucking a string from inside the piano itself (which makes an unusual twang-type sound). One of the kids in the front row exclaimed, "But how do you make that sound?" We showed him. His face lit up like a Christmas tree, he was so happy.
This summer at Stratford Summer Music we have some extraordinary offerings for children, and the best part is - they're all free!! Beginning this week, each member of our staff will be highlighting a performance from our offerings that they are particularly excited about. I'm starting us off here today by highlighting one of my all-time heroes- Al Simmons! I get excited just thinking that he's actually going to be here in August!! In person!! He's been my favourite since, well...since when I was a kid! Here he is in one of his many zany guises:
You can witness Al Simmons live in-person (and it's free!) on August 9th! Here's a link with more info:
Stratford Summer Music: Al Simmons
I’ll be in the front row for this one…
Have a great weekend everyone!
Mark and the SSM Team
Supporter Highlight
A heartfelt thank you to Orr Insurance & Investment for their generous support of Stratford Summer Music. Your commitment to community and the arts helps bring world-class music to our town and ensures a vibrant summer season for everyone to enjoy. We’re so grateful to have you as part of the Stratford Summer Music family!
