Best Self.
I work with a group of children ages 5-13 that are quickly becoming masters of their craft, singing. What I love most about the group is how much they love working hard and being challenged. Their director pushes the limit -always raising the bar, and they are quickly and matter of factly told when they are off key, distracting with their behavior, or needing to give a bit more. There is no drama, or big production in just telling the simple truth.
This is the best part, and why I believe that every child should be allowed time to work with a mentor doing the thing they absolutely love. No matter what the correction, or how raw the truth may seem to an observer these children know that the director is helping them reach their best. These children are passionate about what they are doing and don’t blink at an 1 1/2 of demanding singing. In fact they love it, for I believe it feeds them like comfort food.
Over the years finding the best in people, I have discovered that pushing a limit and going beyond what is thought possible is the key factor in building confidence. The young performers are amazing on stage, because that is how they rehearse. They go beyond what they believe is possible in rehearsal all of the time. Oh yes, and they are never limited by their age. Can you imagine if we face each day like that. Their confidence soars after every rehearsal, and the performance is just icing on the cake. They see the reaction of the audience and hear the praise after. I really enjoy this part. I don’t hear the canned “great job,” I hear “It is clear you worked hard in rehearsal”, ” I could hear your voice and it was beautiful”, “your solo brought me to tears,” or “I never expected you to sing to such a professional level -wow!” Again honest, direct, matter of fact statements that the children will remember. This time compliments and confidence that they will carry with them.
