10 Week Violin Program at Russell Byers Charter School

10 Week Violin Intro Program

In January the 2nd graders at Russell Byers Charter School took part in a 10 week Introduction to the Violin. This program will be repeated in March with the other 2nd Grade class. Marjorie and I wrote the curriculum and it was one of the most satisfying and fun projects we have done in a long time.

The program is designed so that the General Music Teacher at the school can teach the 2nd graders the basics of violin in 20-30 minute group lessons once a week for 10 weeks. At the end of the program the children are able to talk about the violin, how it works, its parts. They have learned the proper position and posture for play position and rest position and they have just started to learn to use the bow.

At the end of the 10 weeks the children put on a showcase where they demonstrated their new knowledge and skills. It was really fun for us to see the children so excited about the violin.

We are hoping to repeat the program at another school in the area so if you know of an elementary school that needs instrumental music and could benefit from this program please send us an email.

Thanks!

Jon and Marj
finkjonathan@gmail.com
215 805-5276

finkjonathan@gmail.com

www.jonfink.com

Inauguration 2009

The Brink of History

To me this whole last year feels like it was a journey. I think for many people the destination will be the inauguration tomorrow.

For many, many more - people who are without work; people who are fighting in Iraq; people with sons or daughters in harms' way; people struggling with health care issues; people with financial problems; for these people the journey won't end tomorrow.

I live the good life. My kids are wonderful and my wife keeps me from doing stupid things (most of the time).

I hope all of us can take a moment over the next couple of days to realize that whatever our trials and tribulations, there's probably someone who is worse off. Maybe we can reach out in this new year and the new America and help a friend or relative or a stranger.

Happy Inauguration!!!!!

Jonathan Fink
Jon Fink Website
Email










Remember when we won the World Series?!?!?!

What a Week

We have a crazy week here in Philadelphia. I think everyone is getting excited about the Eagles, somehow it feels similar to the Phillies run.

Tomorrow Ben is going to participate in the Variety Next Steps Program. Though I have been several times it is Ben's first time speaking to a group of parents. He is excited and a little nervous but I think its a positive step for him.

On Thursday at the Russell Byers Charter School the first run of our 10 Week Introduction to the Violin program will have its final presentation. The children will do some playing and also presentations about the violin. We are excited to see the final product. We should have pictures and even some video when its over.

This program was designed by Marjorie to be taught by the General Music Teacher. The children get a basic understanding of the violin and learn to play a few simple songs with piano accompaniment. I am very proud of my wife and I think this program is a terrific opportunity for schools without a formal music program to give their children an opportunity to play a musical instrument.

Hannah's photos are featured in the teacher manual for the program. If you're interested in seeing the manual or learning more about the program please ask one of us about it.

Add to all this the usual musical performances.

On the Real Estate front-its a great time to Rent or Buy Real Estate. We have some incredible listings which you can read about on my website anytime. If you're on the fence about buying, get off the fence and do it. I can help you! AJ and I also do lots of rentals so if you need a new place to live in the Philadelphia area please feel free to call or email me.

Go Eagles!

Jon

Our Son Ben is great!

Our Son Ben

Today we received this email from our son's teacher...we are so proud of him. This is the first time Ben told his classmates about his condition and he did it without any prompting from anyone.

He is very excited because next week he will be going with me to an Autism event sponsored by Variety. At the event he will be speaking to parents of children who were recently diagnosed with Spectrum Disorders of various kinds. I have been a bunch of times to share our experience as parents but this time Ben is going to come and share his own experiences with the parents.

If you don't know what Asperger's Syndrome is can read a brief description here.

http://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/mental-health-aspergers-syndrome

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Good Afternoon!

I just wanted to let you know about the great conversation Ben led this morning at Morning Meeting. It was Ben’s turn to share and he chose to tell the class about the autism presentation he’s doing on Tuesday. When he mentioned autism he explained that it is something he has that makes his brain work differently. He told the class he would be happy to answer any questions they had about the subject.

Here are a few of the questions/answers:
How does it make your brain work differently?
I like a lot more things than other kids and adults. I’m pretty good at school. I can do all of my assignments and homework.
How do you feel when you have autism?
Well I have it all the time. How do I feel? I feel anxious but I take a pill for that. But I’m not good at taking pills.
Is autism good or bad?
Well… I think it’s good.
Are there different kinds of autism?
Yes. The kind I have is called Asperger’s Syndrome.

It was really neat the way Ben initiated and ran the entire conversation. He was very open and inviting which encouraged the students to ask more questions. Overall it was a really great experience.

Thanks!