Growth
A Message from Mr. Candelario,
As I walk down the hallway of Seattle Lutheran early in the morning, I try to remember my high school experiences and what it was like growing up back in the day. What were my hopes, dreams, fears, and endless questions? I wanted to know truth, self-actualization, and explore an exciting new world outside of my high school microcosm. Further down the hall, I’m asking myself, how can I convey my past experiences into meaningful student guidance? How can music fit into teaching strategies?
Music had been at the forefront of my life since the beginning with appreciation, creation, and playing several instruments. The power of music is immeasurable in healing, opening doors, new relationships, and learning. I had seen many examples of student growth – academic and relationship building – teaching guitar during J-Term. Playing music on the guitar created engagement, energy, and positive vibrations. Students read notes, played chords, and began new song learning adventures. More lives had changed with endless possibilities from the power of music. I will remember those moments for the rest of my life.
My curiosity in music therapy began in graduate school writing a thesis paper called Music Intervention for At-Risk Students. I had researched two years finding incredible evidence how music was used to increase student learning in other subjects and therapy for healing (mental health & special needs). My premise asked the question “Would staging a music intervention create a positive effect on at-risk students?” I firmly believe the answer is yes. Through uncovering countless pieces of written evidence and seeing the effects over the years teaching music to different ages (abilities) I have witnessed miracles transpire daily.
Seattle Lutheran has been a great experience for my own personal growth, learning, and self-reflection. Each day is rewarding and meaningful transforming lives for the greater good in this world. Moreover, students have taught me about seizing all the important little things in life and to keep hope bright with the positive force of music. Music awakens, teaches, and heals the soul. My cousin – Emerson – professed music as an important part of self-actualization.
“Music takes us out of the actual and whispers to us dim secrets that startles out wonder as to who we are, and for what, whence, and whereto.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
