Susan Levine has a harp and a tuba in her living room. Her husband wonders: why wasn’t anyone interested in the piccolo?

Garrett and Ellie’s BIG love of music began when they were LITTLE. Interestingly, Susan says that neither she nor her hubby are particularly musically inclined. She credits WeJoySing. “They ‘played’ at WeJoySing from infancy until they started school. They’ve grown up loving music. WeJoySing made musical and rhythmic connections that really paid off for them.” Susan states that, “WeJoySing has a very special place in my heart. It was our first “scheduled” activity. [I was] a working executive [who suddenly was] trapped in the house with these two kids….we all really looked forward to it.”

Garrett, now 11 ½, plays the piano, the cello, and is learning…you guessed it…the tuba! Ellie, age 10, also plays the piano, but her heart has always been set on being the family harpist.

Laurie Parsons, a Music Specialist at The Wellington School who has been a teacher to Garrett and Ellie, agrees. “Both of the children have a genuine love for music, which I think stems from their early exposure and involvement.” They were also already in their ‘tower’ voice (light flute-like singing voice) by their early elementary years. This doesn’t typically happen, especially if children have not had music as a regular part of their lives.  Garrett and Ellie were quick learners and could also listen to a piece of music for an extended period of time. Parsons recalls that the children were “eager and enthused. Music was important to them.”

Both children do well in school, but their love of music extends beyond the walls of the classroom. Susan recalls the family’s trip to Williamsburg and the many activities and attractions the children could choose from. What did they most want to do? “There was this glass harmonica concert…They were mesmerized!”

And yet, music is neither Garrett nor Ellie’s #1 activity. Susan points out: “Baseball is Garrett’s thing, but isn’t it great that he can play the piano too? I took him to hear the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, and he loved it!” Ellie’s first love is drama (she takes children’s theatre classes) but she also enjoys playing the harp.

Susan also made a point to expose her children to a variety of activities in early childhood. This helped them to become well-rounded. “I took my children to museums when they were in snugglies! We’d talk about shapes and colors and patterns. Never think your child is too young…they absorb more than you think…it has an impact."

But will a baby really remember these experiences? “Even if they don’t remember specifics, it helps shape them. Not every kid is going to become an incredibly gifted musician, but early exposure will help develop natural talent to the utmost possible. You maximize what’s there…”

About Garrett and Ellie’s future, Susan can’t guess what vocations they will pursue. “They have so many interests and talents…” They got off to a great start, and now, the family continues to build on those early foundations. Susan is confident for them, and one thing is sure: “They’ll have a lot of choices.”

A Note from Mrs. Jo-
Susan and her children participated at various locations during their six years with WeJoySing. She shares, “I was always impressed with the teachers WeJoySing attracts.” What an amazing testimony! And I agree, our WeJoySing teachers have a magical way of sharing the JOY of music, life and family with all who enter their classrooms.

"Sing"cerely,
Mrs. Jo