Category: Instruments

The Gift of Music

Posted on by Roman Music Therapy

The hustle and bustle of the season can leave you feeling drained and stretched thin

As we find ourselves quickly approaching the holidays, take a moment to enjoy some down time with your family and loved ones. Life moves so fast … slow it down and take a respite with a favorite CD or playlist to enjoy each precious moment. Also take some time to record your family singing songs or telling stories. With cell phones and tablets, technology has made recording very simple. I’ve started this with my little ones and it is beyond precious to hear them singing their favorite carols. I can just imagine how dear those recordings will be as they grow. Treasure every moment!

During the holidays, remember to make some time for yourself and your loved ones. Step back from the frantic pace and do something that truly puts the spirit into your holiday season. And don’t forget the music!

Still looking for the perfect gift?

gift ukuleleIf you are looking for last minute gifts, we have lots of great instruments for the musicians in your family. For the kids, a floor tom or maracas are always a great “go-to!” And for that favorite uncle or big-kid at heart Grandpa, a ukulele will be a huge hit (if they can pry it away from the little guys)!

We also have CDs that make great gifts.

Our suggestions for the perfect musical gift:

  • Baby’s first Christmas: Baby drum, egg shakers, and ocean drum
  • Perfect for preschoolers: Shark ukuleles, floor tom, bongos, Putamayo CD’s and castanets
  • Great for young families: A Sprouting Melodies gift card!

gift drumStop by the office to purchase, call or send us an email. While there aren’t scheduled classes next week, we will be in the office Monday through Friday.

Have a little one in your life who you think would love Sprouting Melodies? We have gift certificates available.

Make your own music!

Our Intergenerational Holiday Sing will be happening on Monday, December 19th at 6PM. This will be a special event in conjunction with Onset School of Music and will be taking place at their facility. Come and de-stress with some music making in the holiday tradition!

Have a wonderful holiday and Happy New Year!

Guitar Origins

Guitar Origins

Posted on by Roman Music Therapy

In honor of “International Guitar Month”, consider the evolution of the acoustic guitar.

You know it’s an important part of the work we do. Our music therapists are trained to play it. It is their main instrument in some cases. You know how it helps the Sprouting Melodies Classes come alive. It works really well in groups–to spur on the singing. It is used in folk, classical, blues, jazz, rock, Flamenco genres etc. But where does it come from? How did it evolve to become the instrument we have today?

According to archaeologists, the evolution of the guitar can be traced back 4000 years. The closest historical ancestor is the Tanbur, “a long-necked stringed instrument with a small egg- or pear-shaped body, with an arched or round back, usually with a soundboard of wood or hide, and a long, straight neck.”

For a summary of this history we offer three versions of the story.

1. A fun Smule-sponsored Speed Draw Version of the Guitar’s History

2. History of the Acoustic Guitar video, by Shane Donnelly.

3. Brief History of the Guitar, by Paul Guy.

 

Playing an Instrument Sets off Fireworks in the Brain

Playing an Instrument Sets off Fireworks in the Brain

Posted on by Roman Music Therapy

You may have heard playing music lights up the whole brain.

Find out why and how playing a musical instrument can help you you solve problems  in academic and social settings more effectively and creatively! This video will also show you you why musicians may have an edge on memory and thinking processes. Enjoy!

Thank you to our very own Sarah Tree who discovered this gem that explains a complex phenomenon simply.