My plans are to present at the CMEA Music Conference in 2013. CMEA stands for CT Music Educators Association. It encompasses the music educators from all school districts in the state of CT from Kindergarten all the way up to grade 12. Each region meets in January, and then all regions meet together for an in-service day in mid-April.
www.cmea.org
I would laos like to present this on a different level to the NorthEastern District of the Barbershop Harmony Society. This district encompasses all states in New England (ME, MA, CT, RI, NH, VT) Eastern NY and Eastern Canada.
www.nedistrict.org
Links for leadership posts:
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Link for presentation:
hudson_joseph_leadership_presentation
Sunday, January 29, 2012
MAC Week 4-3: Classmate Comment 2
MARQUITA GULLEY:
Week 4 Blog Post
Chapter 9
Enrollment. Wow. Creating that spark. I honestly hope that when people meet me they feel the spark of life that I try so hard to give off. Enrollment is being positive so that others pick up your positivity. It is like how my family portrays blessings. When someone you know has received a blessing just know that yours is right around the corner. Be happy for people and be positive. Influence others to want to be positive as well. Spark a light is someone so they can spark a light in someone else.
Chapter 10
The board. Having the option to change the course of action before it occurs. Instead of placing the blame on someone else, be responsible to take the blame yourself. Even if you know it is not your fault you could still have some fault. Now that I think about it, there are some situations where the blame could have been on me.
Chapter 11
The Framework. Making ways better for everyone. I really enjoyed the story about the second grade student that lost her hair from chemotherapy. Her classmates picked on her and she did not want to go to school the next day. The framework is all about bringing people together with no divisions. Also, we have to be able to see the true vision and not just state false ones. A vision could change how someone feels about an idea.
Chapter 12
WE!!!! Instead of looking at the world as if it only affects you, think of things in the perspective of how it impacts all of those around you. That is so powerful because quite frequently we have thought that our worlds were so bad but we never really take to time to look at the world through the eyes of some who is really going through things. There are so many people that do not have job, have been diagnosed with cancer, who are innocent in jail. We sometimes seem to get upset about the crazy stuff and forget there are bigger issues in the world. Look at how you can make the world better instead of how the world can be so hard on you!!
JOSEPH HUDSON:
I wish more educators and adults in general were like you. You bring enthusiasm, enlightenment and passion to your reading posts and to your students.
Keep up your good work!
Week 4 Blog Post
Chapter 9
Enrollment. Wow. Creating that spark. I honestly hope that when people meet me they feel the spark of life that I try so hard to give off. Enrollment is being positive so that others pick up your positivity. It is like how my family portrays blessings. When someone you know has received a blessing just know that yours is right around the corner. Be happy for people and be positive. Influence others to want to be positive as well. Spark a light is someone so they can spark a light in someone else.
Chapter 10
The board. Having the option to change the course of action before it occurs. Instead of placing the blame on someone else, be responsible to take the blame yourself. Even if you know it is not your fault you could still have some fault. Now that I think about it, there are some situations where the blame could have been on me.
Chapter 11
The Framework. Making ways better for everyone. I really enjoyed the story about the second grade student that lost her hair from chemotherapy. Her classmates picked on her and she did not want to go to school the next day. The framework is all about bringing people together with no divisions. Also, we have to be able to see the true vision and not just state false ones. A vision could change how someone feels about an idea.
Chapter 12
WE!!!! Instead of looking at the world as if it only affects you, think of things in the perspective of how it impacts all of those around you. That is so powerful because quite frequently we have thought that our worlds were so bad but we never really take to time to look at the world through the eyes of some who is really going through things. There are so many people that do not have job, have been diagnosed with cancer, who are innocent in jail. We sometimes seem to get upset about the crazy stuff and forget there are bigger issues in the world. Look at how you can make the world better instead of how the world can be so hard on you!!
JOSEPH HUDSON:
I wish more educators and adults in general were like you. You bring enthusiasm, enlightenment and passion to your reading posts and to your students.
Keep up your good work!
MAC Week 4-2: Classmate Comment 1
GAIL MEBANE:
MAC Wk 4-1: Reading Post -- THE ART OF POSSIBILITY
“Certain things in life are better done in person.”
- - Ben Zander, quoting his father Walter Zander, from The Art of Possibility
Chapter nine of The Art of Possibility, Lighting a Spark, brought tears to my eyes as I read, through the chapter. Through the stories in this chapter, I reconfirmed that making connections with others and lighting a spark has amazing potential to create a huge blaze of success in any venture. I learned, confirmed and reinforced many things in my mind by reading this chapter. I have had some experiences similar to the one described by Roz and I was hugely inspired by her story of the bicycle incident. Thinking in terms of possibilities instead of impossibilities is a refreshing paradigm shift. I like the way she explained the dynamics of the shift in perception as the three people involved changed their perception and transcended an impasse. The remainder of the chapter is an incredible description of events surrounding the development of a music intervention program for a failing school. Though Ben sought to enroll another in his venture, he became enrolled in a bigger venture that encompassed his own. I learned that enrollment on either side of an interaction equation has within it the tremendous power of synergy. The creative venture of the collaborating members is limited only by the imaginations of those involved. The quote above that I chose from this chapter was very inspiring to me. The story of Ben’s father and his remembrance of the lesson he learned on personal interaction came into play beautifully, when he chose to approach and enroll Rostropovich, the renown cellist. I thoroughly enjoyed this chapter and I plan to apply the lesson of lighting a spark and enrollment in my life and work.
“You can always grace yourself with responsibility for anything that happens in your life. You can always find within yourself, the source of any problem you have.” - - Rosamond Zander, from The Art of Possibility
Chapter ten - Being the Board, “You move the problematic aspects of any circumstance from the outside world inside the boundaries of yourself.” Chapter ten is about taking responsibility for what happens in your own life. Not blaming others and not blaming yourself for circumstances and situations but viewing negative events from a new perspective. I like this chapter because I feel that it is empowering to think in these terms. The alternative is, being frustrated by problems, giving control of your life to others, and being a victim of circumstances. This chapter shows how a simple adjustment of perspective can change the course of events in ones life and open up new possibilities. The stories and examples in this chapter clearly illustrate the dynamics of being the board and taking responsibility by asking the simple question: “How did this situation get on the board that I am? From this vantage point, it is easy to reassess a situation and create new possibilities that will turn the tide and get things moving in a different direction, more advantageously.
Chapter eleven, the eleventh practice of Creating Frameworks for Possibility is about resisting the “downward spiral” that can easily draws us into a negative system of thinking, sowing and reaping. The chapter begins with a mention of the “I Have a Dream” speech by Dr. Martin Luther King and describes a leadership role as touching others and creating a chain reaction that opening up possibilities for the greater good. I appreciate the notion that everyone can be a leader in any situation and create a framework that allows for the fresh air of new possibilities. This type of leadership has the power to transform situations from negative/stagnant to positive/dynamic. The stories and examples in this chapter provide excellent insight into the use of the practice. I particularly appreciate the explanation of the difference between a “visionless” mission statement and one that contains a vision that will provide a springboard to possibilities as opposed to a springboard to the downward spiral. One of my favorite quotes, a quote by Nelson Mandela, was provided in this chapter:
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous – Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There is nothing enlightening about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone, and as we let our own life shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” - - Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love, (New York: Harper Collins, 1992) - - as quoted in The Art of Possibility (Formatting has been changed)
This chapter was inspirational in that it made me think about my creative resources and ability to structure a framework for amazing outcomes.
Chapter twelve, the final chapter of The Art of Possibility, Telling the We Story is about human connections and the fact that we are all part of the same story in one way or another. Often, making meaningful connections means coming to terms with historical injustices and forging new possibilities based on a renewed collective vision. This chapter drives home the fact that there is always more than one perspective to an event or experience involving people. I particularly liked the account of Ben Zander’s father relating the histories of the Jewish people and the Arab people going all the way back to Abraham and culminating in Palestine in 1947. The resulting quote from a student provided a profound realization that things can be different if people are willing to look for opportunities to converge and appreciate the strengths one another other possess. Thereby, they can work together for the good of all. The story of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, TRC in South Africa also provided a profound realization about the power of people to connect and rise above the role of perpetrator and victim, to reconciliation and the possibility of a brighter future. This chapter was very meaningful for me in that it reminded me that possibilities mean that we are never alone and there is always a “we”. The We Story can be a formidable force to employ in bringing about the bright future that we envision, hope for and work toward. The Art of Possibility is a “must read” for anyone interested in being proactive about creating a life of their dreams with unlimited opportunities and possibilities.
JOSEPH HUDSON:
Once again Gail, you brought insight and wisdom into the chapters. I always enjoy seeing your personal take on it, because you put your personality and beliefs into each reading post.
MAC Wk 4-1: Reading Post -- THE ART OF POSSIBILITY
“Certain things in life are better done in person.”
- - Ben Zander, quoting his father Walter Zander, from The Art of Possibility
Chapter nine of The Art of Possibility, Lighting a Spark, brought tears to my eyes as I read, through the chapter. Through the stories in this chapter, I reconfirmed that making connections with others and lighting a spark has amazing potential to create a huge blaze of success in any venture. I learned, confirmed and reinforced many things in my mind by reading this chapter. I have had some experiences similar to the one described by Roz and I was hugely inspired by her story of the bicycle incident. Thinking in terms of possibilities instead of impossibilities is a refreshing paradigm shift. I like the way she explained the dynamics of the shift in perception as the three people involved changed their perception and transcended an impasse. The remainder of the chapter is an incredible description of events surrounding the development of a music intervention program for a failing school. Though Ben sought to enroll another in his venture, he became enrolled in a bigger venture that encompassed his own. I learned that enrollment on either side of an interaction equation has within it the tremendous power of synergy. The creative venture of the collaborating members is limited only by the imaginations of those involved. The quote above that I chose from this chapter was very inspiring to me. The story of Ben’s father and his remembrance of the lesson he learned on personal interaction came into play beautifully, when he chose to approach and enroll Rostropovich, the renown cellist. I thoroughly enjoyed this chapter and I plan to apply the lesson of lighting a spark and enrollment in my life and work.
“You can always grace yourself with responsibility for anything that happens in your life. You can always find within yourself, the source of any problem you have.” - - Rosamond Zander, from The Art of Possibility
Chapter ten - Being the Board, “You move the problematic aspects of any circumstance from the outside world inside the boundaries of yourself.” Chapter ten is about taking responsibility for what happens in your own life. Not blaming others and not blaming yourself for circumstances and situations but viewing negative events from a new perspective. I like this chapter because I feel that it is empowering to think in these terms. The alternative is, being frustrated by problems, giving control of your life to others, and being a victim of circumstances. This chapter shows how a simple adjustment of perspective can change the course of events in ones life and open up new possibilities. The stories and examples in this chapter clearly illustrate the dynamics of being the board and taking responsibility by asking the simple question: “How did this situation get on the board that I am? From this vantage point, it is easy to reassess a situation and create new possibilities that will turn the tide and get things moving in a different direction, more advantageously.
Chapter eleven, the eleventh practice of Creating Frameworks for Possibility is about resisting the “downward spiral” that can easily draws us into a negative system of thinking, sowing and reaping. The chapter begins with a mention of the “I Have a Dream” speech by Dr. Martin Luther King and describes a leadership role as touching others and creating a chain reaction that opening up possibilities for the greater good. I appreciate the notion that everyone can be a leader in any situation and create a framework that allows for the fresh air of new possibilities. This type of leadership has the power to transform situations from negative/stagnant to positive/dynamic. The stories and examples in this chapter provide excellent insight into the use of the practice. I particularly appreciate the explanation of the difference between a “visionless” mission statement and one that contains a vision that will provide a springboard to possibilities as opposed to a springboard to the downward spiral. One of my favorite quotes, a quote by Nelson Mandela, was provided in this chapter:
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous – Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There is nothing enlightening about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone, and as we let our own life shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” - - Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love, (New York: Harper Collins, 1992) - - as quoted in The Art of Possibility (Formatting has been changed)
This chapter was inspirational in that it made me think about my creative resources and ability to structure a framework for amazing outcomes.
Chapter twelve, the final chapter of The Art of Possibility, Telling the We Story is about human connections and the fact that we are all part of the same story in one way or another. Often, making meaningful connections means coming to terms with historical injustices and forging new possibilities based on a renewed collective vision. This chapter drives home the fact that there is always more than one perspective to an event or experience involving people. I particularly liked the account of Ben Zander’s father relating the histories of the Jewish people and the Arab people going all the way back to Abraham and culminating in Palestine in 1947. The resulting quote from a student provided a profound realization that things can be different if people are willing to look for opportunities to converge and appreciate the strengths one another other possess. Thereby, they can work together for the good of all. The story of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, TRC in South Africa also provided a profound realization about the power of people to connect and rise above the role of perpetrator and victim, to reconciliation and the possibility of a brighter future. This chapter was very meaningful for me in that it reminded me that possibilities mean that we are never alone and there is always a “we”. The We Story can be a formidable force to employ in bringing about the bright future that we envision, hope for and work toward. The Art of Possibility is a “must read” for anyone interested in being proactive about creating a life of their dreams with unlimited opportunities and possibilities.
JOSEPH HUDSON:
Once again Gail, you brought insight and wisdom into the chapters. I always enjoy seeing your personal take on it, because you put your personality and beliefs into each reading post.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
MAC Week 4-1: Reading Post
Chapter Nine (Lighting A Spark) was a very interesting read. I would have to agree with the authors that each person has within them a “spark of possibility”. Our job is to have the capability and mindset to have other people’s spark catch fire. As it is put in the book, the way to do this is:
1. Imagine that people are an invitation for enrollment
2. Stand ready to participate, willing to be moved and inspired
3. Offer that which lights you up
4. Have no doubt that others are eager to catch the spark
What this is saying is that you must believe that each person has the possibility for greatness, be ready yourself to inspire, show what excites you, and believe that others WANT to be inspired!
Chapter Ten (Being The Board) talks about changes the aspects of life into your favor. Don’t play the blame game on other people, but look at the aspects behind the situation and figure out a way to change it. The reason behind this is because the minute you place the blame elsewhere, you lose your ability to have a say in the outcome. It is out of your hands. To do quote the Andrew Lloyd Webber music “Jesus Christ Superstar”: PONTIOUS PILATE: I wash my hands of your demolition.
Chapter Eleven (Creating Frameworks For Possibility) discusses the fact that things may appear to be going in a downward spiral, but each one of us has the opportunity or ability to change that in three simple steps:
1. Create a feeling of substitution for this downward spiral
2. Make the effort of making the new philosophy everything
3. Keep track of what is going right and what is going wrong
This is a great philosophy, because if you do not make the effort to change things around you and make that your goal….nothing will change for you.
Chapter Twelve (Telling The WE Story) discusses the WE story. The WE story to me is very similar to the six degrees of separation. The WE story says you must:
1. Tell the story that relates to all
2. Listen and look for the rising person or things around you
3. Ask yourself “where do WE go from here?”
What a concept! We are all connected, all we have to do is look around us for someone or something else to join us and figure out where to go to make everything better TOGETHER!
Sunday, January 22, 2012
MAC 3-5: WIMBA
A very informative WIMBA session.
Here re my answers to the questions asked:
How is the Art of Possibility different from the Power of Positive Thinking or Oprah's "The Secret"?
The Art of Possibility discusses ways of changing your own attitude to improve others...whereas The Secret discusses ways of changing the way the "UNIVERSE" thinks about you to improve YOUR life. Having seen "The Secret" I would have to say that the Art of Possibility is a better way of looking at how to change, because it helps you change others as opposed to yourself.
What chapter meant the most to you and why?
Two chapters stood out to me. The first one was "Giving An A". I enjoyed this chapter because that is the philosophy that my Unified Arts team has created. Each student starts with an A and can go up to an A+ or go down. The stipulations to going up or down is attitude and effort.
The second chapter was Giving Way To Passion. As a musical director and a singer, I see what drives my singers and friends to do better. Same thing for my students. You give them praise, they appreciate it. A gentlemen I had the pleasure of seeing talk live was Dr. Tom Steiner. He had an idea that fits perfectly into this chapter's philosophy. His thought was to have...and I quote...have a mediocrity parade.
My chorus members know when I am happy...they sing a key change correctly the first time -- I CHEER THEM ON! They sing completely in-tune for a full song--I CHEER THEM ON!
Imagine if we all celebrated the little things as if they were big things. It would make the big things bigger.
What things are you going to take from the reading and use in your teaching and your life?
I hope to continually remember to celebrate the small things...and always remember -- RULE #6!
Here re my answers to the questions asked:
How is the Art of Possibility different from the Power of Positive Thinking or Oprah's "The Secret"?
The Art of Possibility discusses ways of changing your own attitude to improve others...whereas The Secret discusses ways of changing the way the "UNIVERSE" thinks about you to improve YOUR life. Having seen "The Secret" I would have to say that the Art of Possibility is a better way of looking at how to change, because it helps you change others as opposed to yourself.
What chapter meant the most to you and why?
Two chapters stood out to me. The first one was "Giving An A". I enjoyed this chapter because that is the philosophy that my Unified Arts team has created. Each student starts with an A and can go up to an A+ or go down. The stipulations to going up or down is attitude and effort.
The second chapter was Giving Way To Passion. As a musical director and a singer, I see what drives my singers and friends to do better. Same thing for my students. You give them praise, they appreciate it. A gentlemen I had the pleasure of seeing talk live was Dr. Tom Steiner. He had an idea that fits perfectly into this chapter's philosophy. His thought was to have...and I quote...have a mediocrity parade.
My chorus members know when I am happy...they sing a key change correctly the first time -- I CHEER THEM ON! They sing completely in-tune for a full song--I CHEER THEM ON!
Imagine if we all celebrated the little things as if they were big things. It would make the big things bigger.
What things are you going to take from the reading and use in your teaching and your life?
I hope to continually remember to celebrate the small things...and always remember -- RULE #6!
MAC 3-4: Leadership Post
WHERE:
I plan on presenting at two summer events. One is entitled Harmony University. The Barbershop Harmony Society presents Harmony University during the summer. Every summer, they offer various classes for one week during the first week of August. It is offered to music educators and barbershop harmony singers from all 50 states, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand and Finland.
The second place I plan on presenting is at Harmony College NorthEast. It is a weekend seminar series presented the second weekend in August by the NorthEastern District of the Barbershop Harmony Society. It is offered to music educators, barbershop harmony singers and to high school students form New England and eastern New York State.
WHY:
I believe that presenting at these places, where I have already presented in previous years, would be a great way to get the word out about my presentation to many more persons than just in my school district or state. Also, as I have presented there previously, it would be a good place to begin as I would be less nervous than presenting elsewhere. I also have persons who would be willing to sit in on the presentation and give me pointers on how to improve it if need be.
I plan on presenting at two summer events. One is entitled Harmony University. The Barbershop Harmony Society presents Harmony University during the summer. Every summer, they offer various classes for one week during the first week of August. It is offered to music educators and barbershop harmony singers from all 50 states, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand and Finland.
The second place I plan on presenting is at Harmony College NorthEast. It is a weekend seminar series presented the second weekend in August by the NorthEastern District of the Barbershop Harmony Society. It is offered to music educators, barbershop harmony singers and to high school students form New England and eastern New York State.
WHY:
I believe that presenting at these places, where I have already presented in previous years, would be a great way to get the word out about my presentation to many more persons than just in my school district or state. Also, as I have presented there previously, it would be a good place to begin as I would be less nervous than presenting elsewhere. I also have persons who would be willing to sit in on the presentation and give me pointers on how to improve it if need be.
MAC 3-3: Classmate Comment 2
CHONNIE BLAIR:
MAC Week 3 Blog 1
Chapter 5 reminded us of a fundamental principle – there is no I in team. Every member of a team has a significant and critical contribution that he presents to the overall project or goal. Using the orchestra as method of demonstrating this principle, the chapter focused on the conductor as person in front that gets the recognition and blame, but each person playing an instrument is critical important to the piece being played correctly and beautifully.
“Lighten up, which may well light up those around you” is the liberating practice presented in chapter 6 of the book. This very short phrase has a tremendous impact on me as an educator in a tested area in an high school environment as the pressure to have students perform at a certain level can sometimes cause undo stress that is easily transferred to our students. This message was heard and received by me and others with whom I have shared it.
Chapter 7 helps us to assess the current situation in which we find ourselves, its impact and encourages us to focus intently on our next course of action based on the present circumstances. This is a chapter full of wisdom for plotting a course for you life.
I often tell others to function professionally in a capacity which embodies that thing about which you are passionate. Chapter 8 charges us with running face first into a dark room faithfully in the direction of our passion. What an awesome charge!
1 comments:
jphudson2006Jan 22, 2012 12:03 PM
Very nice description of the chapters. Very concise, and to the point.
I also makes it clear to someone who has not read the book exactly what went on in each chapter in a short amount of time.
Keep up the good work.
MAC 3-2: Classmate Comment 1
GAIL MEBANE:
"There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you through all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open."
The discussion of leadership in Chapter five of The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander is interesting and profound. As the title of the chapter ( Leading From Any Chair) suggests, leaders are those who choose to take a leadership role, regardless of their assigned role or designation. Leadership involves taking the initiative that others can follow to strive for a desired outcome. Often, people with strong leadership ability do not have direction or they are negative leaders who lead others to negative outcomes. I believe that all people have leadership potential whether or not they choose to exercise it. However, from the prospective of a teacher it is excellent to recognize the leadership potential that students have to influence one another and to channel that ability through student centered activities and cooperative grouping. In this chapter, I particularly liked the story about the legendary quartet that played their music from memory. Their alertness and ability to step in to pick up the slack for each other was what made them successful. This was a great example of shared leadership.
Chapter six, Rule Number 6, is full of poignant stories and light-hearted surprises. It provides a reminder not to take yourself too seriously and to work toward moving from the rigid, serious, "calculating self" to the free, light-hearted, generous, "central self". Posing the question, "What would have to change for me to be totally fullfilled" and playing the game "Have the best sex ever" are great exercises to help a person break through the confines of the calculating self to the central self. The stories in this chapter were amazing.
"The way things are" is an unusual title for a chapter. However, Chapter seven is initiated with a dialog from the movie Babe that expresses the concerns of animals who may be destined to become dinner at some time or another. Through this dialog, the authors present a contrast between two outlooks, one of resignation and one of indignation. These attitudes are examined and refuted within the chapter. The authors assert that neither outlook is advantageous. They propose that a zen type mindfulness be applied to the way things are, so that we are "being present without resistance". This practice allows for circumstances to be brought into perspective, further allowing for acceptance, emotional honesty and transcendence. The story of Jane Goodall's work and her ability to apply the principle of acceptance of the way things are, to reach greater possibilities, provided a touching highlight to this chapter.
Many authors have written about finding your passion and following your passion. I think that it is undeniable that passion is a key element, recognized as a determining factor for success. However, in Chapter eight, "Giving Way to Passion", the Zanders have written about passion in another perspective. Their stories seem to describe passion as a unique, energy of expression that propels an accomplishment into the realm of extraordinary. I really like all of the stories and anecdotes related to music and musicians. It is exciting to hear about their struggles and how they must master their art while uniquely expressing themselves creatively. It is easy to see how passion fits in through the examples provided.
"There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you through all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open."
--Martha Graham, quoted by Agnes DeMille,
Martha: The life and work of Martha Graham
The discussion of leadership in Chapter five of The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander is interesting and profound. As the title of the chapter ( Leading From Any Chair) suggests, leaders are those who choose to take a leadership role, regardless of their assigned role or designation. Leadership involves taking the initiative that others can follow to strive for a desired outcome. Often, people with strong leadership ability do not have direction or they are negative leaders who lead others to negative outcomes. I believe that all people have leadership potential whether or not they choose to exercise it. However, from the prospective of a teacher it is excellent to recognize the leadership potential that students have to influence one another and to channel that ability through student centered activities and cooperative grouping. In this chapter, I particularly liked the story about the legendary quartet that played their music from memory. Their alertness and ability to step in to pick up the slack for each other was what made them successful. This was a great example of shared leadership.
Chapter six, Rule Number 6, is full of poignant stories and light-hearted surprises. It provides a reminder not to take yourself too seriously and to work toward moving from the rigid, serious, "calculating self" to the free, light-hearted, generous, "central self". Posing the question, "What would have to change for me to be totally fullfilled" and playing the game "Have the best sex ever" are great exercises to help a person break through the confines of the calculating self to the central self. The stories in this chapter were amazing.
"The way things are" is an unusual title for a chapter. However, Chapter seven is initiated with a dialog from the movie Babe that expresses the concerns of animals who may be destined to become dinner at some time or another. Through this dialog, the authors present a contrast between two outlooks, one of resignation and one of indignation. These attitudes are examined and refuted within the chapter. The authors assert that neither outlook is advantageous. They propose that a zen type mindfulness be applied to the way things are, so that we are "being present without resistance". This practice allows for circumstances to be brought into perspective, further allowing for acceptance, emotional honesty and transcendence. The story of Jane Goodall's work and her ability to apply the principle of acceptance of the way things are, to reach greater possibilities, provided a touching highlight to this chapter.
Many authors have written about finding your passion and following your passion. I think that it is undeniable that passion is a key element, recognized as a determining factor for success. However, in Chapter eight, "Giving Way to Passion", the Zanders have written about passion in another perspective. Their stories seem to describe passion as a unique, energy of expression that propels an accomplishment into the realm of extraordinary. I really like all of the stories and anecdotes related to music and musicians. It is exciting to hear about their struggles and how they must master their art while uniquely expressing themselves creatively. It is easy to see how passion fits in through the examples provided.
2 comments:
Bernadette BordersJan 21, 2012 04:38 PMGail Melbane
Reply
I like your quote by Martha Graham. We are all unique and there can only be one of us. We each have our own talent that makes us who we are. This reminds me of another quote by Shakespeare, “This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man”. As a teacher, I agree with you that the students have great potential to be leaders themselves and to be able to lead others. I remember a time when a counselor needed to talk to me briefly out in the hall. I spoke to her and I thought my class would just practice on their own but they went ahead and conducted themselves and played the music together. I like it when it gets to a point that they don’t need me in front conducting them that they are able to watch and listen non-verbally to each other just like the musician in chapter eight. You hit the nail on the head with all the chapters we read on the Art of Possibility. Good job.- jphudson2006Jan 22, 2012 11:56 AM
Very nice description of the chapters. Your enthusiasm and insight shine through in your descriptions and personal feelings and thoughts on the chapters.
I love both your quote from Martha Graham and Bernadette's quote from Shakespeare. To quote someone my students relate to:
"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."
~ Dr. Seuss
Saturday, January 21, 2012
MAC 3-1: Reading Post
Chapter Five (Leading From Any Chair) tells of how the author changed his own philosophy about leadership from that of the sole conductor of the orchestra to the facilitator of others passions and expressions. To be a true leader, as he states, you must be able to admit when you are wrong and show those you are leading that you are wrong. As the conductor of a chorus, I would have to say that one of the first things you are taught is that the singers are to express the meaning of the song and that you, under no circumstances, get in the way of the singer and the audience.
Chapter Six (Rule Number 6) tells a few stories, but the two that stood out to me most were the first two. Number one tells the story of where Rule Number 6 comes from. Two Prime Ministers are interrupted three times and each time, the interrupter was greeted with “REMEMBER RULE NUMBER 6”. Rule Number 6 is very simple…DON’T TAKE YOURSELF TOO GODDAMN SERIOUSLY!” The second is that of how to relieve tension in a band rehearsal, simply talk about falling cows. As a conductor of a chorus, I would have to agree. If my humor was not involved in rehearsals, I know we would not have as many members.
Chapter Seven (The Way Things Are) discusses two ways of looking at situations. You can either look at a bad situation as “this is what was planned and then this happened and this is how I feel about it” or you can look at it as “this is what was planned and then this happened, but I will do something else and not let the change bother me.” To quote a friend of mine: CHANGE IS INEVITABLE, EXCEPT FROM A VENDING MACHINE.
Chapter Eight (Giving Way To Passion) discusses ways to change accomplishments that others would find ordinary into truly magical and amazing feats. The example given about Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata is absolutely true. In order to truly appreciate the music, the player must draw the audience in by not only mastering the triplet feeling, but also the beauty and texture of the melody line above it all.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
MAC Week 2-5: WIMBA Post
Hello -
I am sorry that I missed this week's WIMBA Session. However, watching it on the archive, i got a few good things out of it.
1) A great review of copyright laws, fair use, and creative commons
2) Creative Commons -- instead of going through the government, set up guidelines, get buy-ins, and it acts as a contract
3) Types of Creative Commons:
Little Man (Attribution) use something as long as you give credit to the original creator
Slashed Out $ (Non-Commercial Use) not-for-profit usage
Equal Sign (No Derivative Works) no changes can be made
Backwards C (Share Alike) change as you need to
Really explaining things so we can better understand and better explain them to others.
I am sorry that I missed this week's WIMBA Session. However, watching it on the archive, i got a few good things out of it.
1) A great review of copyright laws, fair use, and creative commons
2) Creative Commons -- instead of going through the government, set up guidelines, get buy-ins, and it acts as a contract
3) Types of Creative Commons:
Little Man (Attribution) use something as long as you give credit to the original creator
Slashed Out $ (Non-Commercial Use) not-for-profit usage
Equal Sign (No Derivative Works) no changes can be made
Backwards C (Share Alike) change as you need to
Really explaining things so we can better understand and better explain them to others.
MAC Week 2-4: Leadership Post 2
To Present or To Publish?!?
As a performer, I prefer to present. I feel that I better express myself when I am able to talk face-to-face with persons. I have had the benefit of presenting multiple times as a director teaching music theory to others who have not had training in music theory, so I know I am comfortable presenting.
My first preference would be to present at the CT Music Educators Conference. However, their conference is in April, so all of their session are chosen for 2012, so I will try for 2013. The other place I would enjoy presenting this project of incorporating technology into music classroom would be at Harmony University set up by the Barbershop Harmony Society, which would open this presentation up to a possible 30,000+ members from all over the world.
Think big, dream big, go big!
MAC Week 2-3: Comment 2
GAIL MEBANE:
"Art, after all, is about rearranging us, creating surprising juxtapositions, emotional openings, startling presences and flight paths to the eternal."
MAC Wk 2-1: Reading Post -- THE ART OF POSSIBILITY
Image from Morgue File: http://morguefile.com/archive/display/120648
"Art, after all, is about rearranging us, creating surprising juxtapositions, emotional openings, startling presences and flight paths to the eternal."
--Rosamund Zander and Benjamin Zander, Authors of The Art of Possibility
In "Launching the Journey", the preface of the book, the authors introduce what the Art of Possibility is about. It is about art and about the possibilities that exist to create and step into a new paradigm of our own design. The authors offer an expanded way of thinking that exposes self-imposed limitations and dissipates them into a new reality of expanded possibilities. I love this way of thinking because it is refreshing and inspirational. I believe that thinking about possibilities and moving beyond established group think patterns and race consciousness is a way to break out of the norm of humdrum existence to full conscious acceptance of the fabulous, unexpected surprises in everyday life. For me, it means being positive and consistently looking at the glass half full instead of half empty. It means never giving up and remaining open to new adventures. The authors have a vision that involves individual shifts in understanding and consciousness that spill over and make it possible to resolve group conflicts that may be in relationships, the community or the world. Initially, in the first chapter, the authors introduce their concepts and present their vision to the readers. Then, they explain that each subsequent chapter is provided as a way to reach the ideal of the vision through a particular practice presented in the chapter.
Chapter one, "It's All Invented", deals with looking beyond the obvious and thinking outside the box. The practice in this chapter is to ask yourself several thought provoking questions to reveal misconceptions and move beyond the limitations they impose. The authors presented excellent examples including a dot grid that I had seen before. Although, I had seen it before, I had forgotten the resolution until I saw it on the next page. I will definitely put the practice provide in this chapter to work in my everyday life.
In the second chapter of the book called, "Stepping into a Universe of Possibility", the authors introduce the reader into the new paradigm; “a place to dwell where new inventions are the order of the day.” Upon beginning this chapter, I felt like Alice in Wonderland. I was reminded of puzzling, esoteric new thought concepts that have dazzled my mind in the past. Although, I had heard and read many times, from many different sources that the universe is the field of all possibilities, I am now beginning to get a practical conceptualization of what that might really mean. The practice in this chapter is clearly meant to be a breakthrough to new territory of the mind.
Chapter three, "Giving an A", resonated very well with me as a teacher who is constantly grading students’ performance. Giving every student an ‘A’ is certainly a paradigm shift. However, the thought of mentally giving an A to others and the practice of giving the A that leads to looking for the good in others is certainly more than worthwhile. I enjoyed this chapter thoroughly with all of the letters written by students who were assigned to image the future growth they achieved through what they learned in the class. I thought that this was a brilliant idea and a great way to provide individualized learning experiences for students. My take away from this chapter is to always look for the good in people.
Chapter four, "Being a Contribution", presents the idea of moving away from competitiveness and the game it embodies, to a new paradigm of contribution. I like the idea of looking at these two different contexts as games with players and rules. Further, I appreciate the message that we can choose the games we play and make new rules for our lives. I believe that being a contribution and making a difference are the reasons why we are here in this plane of existence. I believe that we are here to learn how to contribute our unique talents for the unfolding of our own greater good and the greater good of our society.
MY RESPONSE:
Very concise as usual Gail. I appreciated your insights behind each chapter and even thoughts within the chapter.
Imagine what a school would be like if every person in that school looks for the good in people, as opposed to saying "oh no! not that class again!"
Keep up the good work and keep thinking outside the box.
Imagine what a school would be like if every person in that school looks for the good in people, as opposed to saying "oh no! not that class again!"
Keep up the good work and keep thinking outside the box.
MAC Week 2-2: Comment 1
ADAM VAUGHAN:
Saturday, January 14, 2012
MAC Week 2 Reading: Art of Possibility Chapters 1–4
What a fantastic TED Talk! Joe thank you for posting this video, if you have anymore favorites please make us all aware.
These quotes from the video deserve blog space.
"Who am I being, that my players eyes are not shining?" - Benjamin Zander
What a fantastic TED Talk! Joe thank you for posting this video, if you have anymore favorites please make us all aware.
These quotes from the video deserve blog space.
"Who am I being, that my players eyes are not shining?" - Benjamin Zander
"It is one of the characteristics of a leader, that he not doubt for one moment the capacity of the people he is leading to realizing whatever he is dreaming." - Benjamin Zander
"The conductor doesn't make a sound, he depends for his power, on his ability to make other people powerful."
- Benjamin Zander
"I will never say anything, that couldn't stand as the last thing I ever say." - Auschwits survivor
It took me a minute to figure out what I wanted to say about the book,
but in the first four chapters this is where my head is at…
Dear Mr. Zander,
I got my "A" because I found purpose in the process. What I used to think were vain attempts at reaching some unseen goal, lost in space, or some endless maze, were in fact the efforts of one finding his individual points, lines, and planes. This entire time I have been tracing out my own great pattern. Though I cannot see it in its entirety, I do know it is there, and I know, even in the dark, exactly what I am doing. As the days pass, the little fears and insecurities of the past reveal themselves as sure footing for the moment that make the pathway to a glorious future.
Sincerely,
Adam Vaughn
MY RESPONSE:
Wow - what a unique way to explain the text. I never thought of creating my own letter.
Also, I love the quotes. very fitting. I particularly like the one about the conductor not making a sound. really stood out to a musician.
Keep up the excellent work.
Also, I love the quotes. very fitting. I particularly like the one about the conductor not making a sound. really stood out to a musician.
Keep up the excellent work.
Friday, January 13, 2012
MAC Week 2-1: Reading Post
The Art of Possibility is extremely interesting to read. It puts ideas in a new perspective.
Chapter One (Invented) begins with the story of two scouts going to Africa. Each comes back with a different perspective on what is going on in Africa. One states that the “situation hopeless…no one wears shoes” whereas the second states that “great opportunity…no one wears shoes.” A great way to look at this situation is the Winston Churchill saying: “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” You can INVENT your own outlook…just depends on your frame of mind.
Chapter Two (Stepping Into A Universe Of Possibility) discusses the idea of new inventions are the “order of the day.” This brings to mind the thought that it is someone’s way of thinking that leads to an open mind. And open minds are what lead to new inventions. So, someone must instill upon themselves the belief and process of having an open mind. Once your mind is open, a “universe of possibility” will open up to you.
Chapter Three (Giving An A) discusses the thought process behind grades and attitudes toward achievement. It says that both attitude and achievement are on an individual basis. You should not compare yourself to THE NORM. An exercise that was given I utilize for my chorus all the time. Have your students write a letter dated for the end of the semester, and have them explain why they received the grade that they do. This allows them to think about who they WILL be, and how THEY will get there.
Chapter Four (Being A Contribution) is truly thought provoking. It instills the philosophy that we are a gift to the world. It suggests that we determine our day by day triumphs by the contributions we ourselves make upon the world around us. A great way to look at life. “Glass half full!”
So far this book has brought up a lot of ideas and philosophies I had forgotten about. I cannot wait to see what the rest of this book holds.
I leave you with this video of a Band Director explaining how an “A” is not enough.
Monday, January 9, 2012
MAC Week 1-4: Leadership Week 1
One of the persons that I truly admire is the current president of the Mad Hatter Chorus Danny Anderson. In addition to running the Mad Hatter Chorus for the past two and a half years, he owns and runs a very successful energy conservation company.
His style of leadership is to be fair and just most of the time. But when something goes wrong, or there is a disagreement, he knows how to rationally come to an agreement and help others do the same.
He is open to hearing all opinions on issues and thoughts. And, if his opinion is not what yours is, he will sit down and listen to yours in order to hear your thoughts, wait for you to finish, and explain his side and thoughts, and then come up with a mixture of the two so that both sides feel that things were accomplished and their voice was heard.
In addition to the above items, he is extremely well organized. If you ask him for something that occurred a year ago, he still has the paperwork in a folder. And the best part about that is that all of his folders, calendars, and such are on his iPhone to make it accessible to him at a moments notice, or to make it be available for email if someone needs it.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
MAC Week 1-3: Classmate Comment 2
Bernadette Borders:
After watching the video Good Copy/Bad Copy, I was surprised that the two second, three note motif from Get Off Your Ass and Jam by Funkadelic written by George Clinton was a copyright infringement. N.W.A. sampled the two second guitar motive and used it in their song One hundred miles and Running. The three-note motif was used at a slower tempo throughout the song and was hardly audible.
After watching the video Good Copy/Bad Copy, I was surprised that the two second, three note motif from Get Off Your Ass and Jam by Funkadelic written by George Clinton was a copyright infringement. N.W.A. sampled the two second guitar motive and used it in their song One hundred miles and Running. The three-note motif was used at a slower tempo throughout the song and was hardly audible.
Great composers such as John Williams used motifs from other artists. John Williams used motifs from Gustav Holst for the Star Wars movie. Williams used Holst Mars from the Planets. The time signature for Mars was in a 5/4 meter. The pattern you hear in Mars is Triplet-2-3-4&-5. You can hear the triplet pattern through a whole section of the Star Wars music but John Williams used an even meter with the triplets. In another movie by John William, Superman-The Planet Krypton, he used a motif by Richard Strauss. In addition he used the motif from Strauss Sprach Zarathustra in the movie 2001 A Space Odyssey. Williams used the same fifth and octave motif known also as the nature motif in his music. Williams alters it by starting on V-I-V-I and Strauss starts at I-V-I.
My question to myself is John Williams sampling from other composers an infringement of the copyright laws? Is there enough time span for it to be a part of the public domain? It made me think of other songs such as Super Freak by Rick James. MC Hammer used the same song but different lyrics in his music called U Can’t Touch This. Another is a remix by Vanilla Ice, Play that Funky Music. The original is by Wild Cherry.
I liked both versions of the music, but copyright does not allow music to be altered without the permission of the copyright holder.
I am getting a better understanding of the importance of copyright laws after the videos. I believe there should be some flexibility so other artist can remix the music to expand on their creativity but at the same time artists need to respect the wishes of the original creator of the music.
Wow, never even thought of heard the similarities in John Williams music. Very nice catch! Also, the MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice catches were very clever as well.
Very nicely done!
Very nicely done!
MAC Week 1-2: Classmate Comment 1
GAIL MEBANE:
The reading material for week one in the Media Asset Creation class was extremely thought provoking. Mastering the rudiments of copyright law is essential for teachers because we need to know how to create and share media that often includes examples from communal sources. Copyright law, though necessary to protect intellectual property, presents a problematic scenario when coupled with the need to pass on culture and social issues through media. The definition of copyright is the exclusive legal right to reproduce, publish, sell, or distribute the matter and form of something (Webster). Getting an understanding of what cannot be copyrighted is also important. Things such as, titles, names, short phrases, improvisations, unrecorded songs and dances, and common property items cannot be copyrighted. In addition, ideas cannot be copyrighted; however, the forms that the ideas take can be copyrighted, including: books, photographs, musical compositions, works of art, computer software, architectural designs, plays, films, movies and dance. The historical context of copyright provides an interesting look at the progression of the law that was enacted to protect individuals and companies that produce original works. Going from a few years to a lifetime plus 70 years or 100 years for a company has provided a great deal of private protection; however, it has also created a slow down on material to enter the public domain. Therefore, gaining an understanding of 'Fair Use' principles and 'Creative Commons' use is essential for teachers. This information will enable us to pass on information and build materials that may be more compelling and engaging for our students through the thoughtful, fair use of copyrighted material. Reference: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/copyright
1 comments:
- jphudson2006 said...
- Gail, A good response and explanation of the different aspects of copyright. Very clear and concise. It is easy to be interpreted by someone who has not seen the videos.
- January 8, 2012 6:21 AM
MAC Week 1-1: Reading Post -- COPYRIGHT INFO
The reading materials for this week were very informative. As a music educator, I feel it was very important to know the length of time a song has copyright. As an arranger and composer, I appreciate copyright law because it protects my works from being copied. It is very expensive, but if you have a song, artwork, or book that you wrote and feel passionate about, it is essential for your protection.
However, for the copyright time to go from 14 years to a lifetime plus 70 years was a shock. I had no idea about Fair Use or Creative Commons, but those would seems very useful for mixing songs together to teach about different subject types, if used correctly.
The “Fair-y Use Tale” video was very creative and showed a good example of how to correctly use copyrighted material to teach. It also gave good examples of Parody, News Reporting and Critical Comment. But remember that “Fair use is not a right, but a legal defensible position”.
However, for the copyright time to go from 14 years to a lifetime plus 70 years was a shock. I had no idea about Fair Use or Creative Commons, but those would seems very useful for mixing songs together to teach about different subject types, if used correctly.
The “Fair-y Use Tale” video was very creative and showed a good example of how to correctly use copyrighted material to teach. It also gave good examples of Parody, News Reporting and Critical Comment. But remember that “Fair use is not a right, but a legal defensible position”.
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