When Music Finds Its Way -- 11/01/2025 Singing Lessons at Library

Authored by Cielle Chan

We started at V.P. Library for the 1:00–1:50 PM session. We arrived early to set up and waited, hoping to see at least a few students walk through the door. By the end of the session, it was clear no one would be coming. It wasn’t the most encouraging start, but we packed up and moved to our second site at S.H. Library.

At S.H. library , the room was empty at first as well. We asked the staff to make an announcement, and after that, didn't bring anyone in, we approached a family with three young girls and invited them to join. They agreed, which immediately lifted the atmosphere.

Before we started, their mother shared that two of her children have ADHD. We assured her that they were welcome. The beginning was a bit challenging, as focusing was difficult for them, but with larger movements and interactive activities, they gradually engaged. Eventually, two of the girls needed to leave, but the youngest stayed and participated well. Soon after, three students who had originally registered arrived, so we restarted the lesson and introduced solfege and basic warm-ups again. From there, we moved into simple songs like “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” and “I Like the Flowers.” I incorporated hand movements and physical cues, such as crouching for low notes and reaching up for high ones, to reinforce pitch while keeping the lesson engaging. At one point, we attempted a faster version, and everything fell apart, but the kids took it lightly, and their laughter made the environment relaxed and positive. 

By the end of the session, the students were participating confidently and seemed to be genuinely enjoying themselves. Today’s lesson helped me learn how to manage different attention levels and adjust teaching strategies in real time. Despite the challenges, it was a solid start, and I’m excited to return once more.

Vocal Tutor: Cielle Chan