Tips for Delivering the Curriculum

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If Someone Misses a Lesson

The lessons are typically standalone rather than building off one another, so it is generally not an issue if a person misses one session.  In a couple of cases (which I indicate), two lessons will be on the same topic, so it may be helpful to provide a brief recap of the previous lesson before beginning the second one in a sequence.

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Recordings of Songs

Throughout the lesson plan, I may refer to specific pieces I played on YouTube for the seniors.  I have included the links to the recordings (click the song titles for the link).  I chose these pieces because they were created when the seniors were young (around the 1950s).  These are my recommendations, but you are free to change the songs if you find another one you wish to include.  I may also talk about the instruments I used.  On occasion, I would take my violin to the lesson or perform a piano or dance piece, and sometimes I used the piano or violin to illustrate certain types of notes or chords.  The instruments used should be adapted to fit the skillset of the person delivering the curriculum.

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Supplies Needed

The supplies needed will vary depending on how you choose to run the program.  If you need a recording of a song on a computer, make sure you bring portable speakers so that the music is loud enough for them to hear.  If you choose to use a YouTube recording, check beforehand to make sure that there is an Internet connection where you are conducting the program.  Otherwise, you may need a CD or iTunes version of the songs.  I frequently include YouTube links, but depending on the availability of an Internet connection, you may choose to adapt this. 

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In almost all of the lessons, I have listed a computer with speakers (in order to make the music loud enough).  If you choose to use a CD, make sure you have a player that will play the music loudly enough for them to hear.  If a handout is necessary, print enough copies for the size of the group receiving the program.

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Final Advice

A couple of quick tips based on my own experience: the seniors do not seem to react well if they are asked a series of questions at once.  Instead, it may be simpler to ask one person a particular question, then ask another person a different question, and so on.  They will also be more engaged if you speak loudly, clearly, and slowly.  Finally, depending on the group, their interests may be different, so be sure that you evolve the curriculum to fit their specific needs.