Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own.
When we signed up AJ for drum lessons 4 years ago, we thought of the benefits to him. He doesn’t love soccer like I did, and I was so glad that he found something that he enjoyed. We are a music loving family so it wasn’t out of the ordinary to us at all. We knew that being involved in lessons helps with reading and writing, as well as with mathematics. We hoped that at some point it would help with the concepts of teamwork, and would teach him how to lead (as the drummer often drives the song). Here’s what we were unprepared for.
We found a school that has been able to reach him in extraordinary ways. He has developed a real love of music, and an appreciation for all types. His school has been able to accommodate him throughout a pandemic, meeting with him virtually so that we can remain socially distanced and keep our E, who has some health issues, safe. He has performed a minimum of 2 times a year since he began, learning about musicianship, and playing in different types of venues. He began performing along with music, graduated to playing on his own and now he has kicked it up a notch.
This past August we had the pleasure of watching our son play on one of the most prestigious stages there are. He was invited to perform at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. To do this he not only had to learn a new song, but had to learn how to play with a slew of other musicians who he did not have the opportunity to practice with on a regular basis. He had one practice time, one dress rehearsal and the performance. So much of this is a real life musical experience that we were floored.
For us this was a dream experience realized. A dream we didn’t even know we had. This kid took each bump in the road (including the rescheduling of the event due to COVID twice) in stride. Learned 2 songs (one that he abandoned after playing it so long that he was over it), traveled with us all the way to Cleveland by car then performed brilliantly.
The music school arranged for us a lodging block, as well as the performance and tickets to the hall. In order for us as parents to be present and not be distracted trying to document the momentous occasion, the school arranged for professional video and photography.
We planned a whole trip around it. When honestly will we ever have the opportunity to come back? So we wanted to make sure that we hit all the “must do’s” while there. We had the BEST TIME (stay tuned for a post with all our favorite things to do in Cleveland in cause you never thought to go and it may end up on your hit list.
This experience was well worth its weight in gold. We had the best time, the kids (and adults!) were so professional, and they gained experience they never would have without. We were in awe at the artifacts in the building, and you could feel the weight of the experience everywhere. Nerves were replaced with composure and all kids performed beautifully. (A) enjoyed the experience of playing with all live musicians so much he is now super interested in the Rock Band Class offered by the school.
Our minds are reeling. I don’t know how they are going to top it but of course our minds are reeling… Nashville? Where else keeps popping into our minds. We are so thankful for such a creative and fabulous school where (A) has been flourishing for 4 years already!!! Stay tuned!
Looking for a unique and professional music school where you or your child can flourish? Take advantage of the Halloween Promotion they are currently having!!! FREE REGISTRATION and FREE FIRST LESSON when you register and mention RNYM.com!!!!