Not unlike life, successful homeschooling is a balance. There’s the freedom to do it your own way,
but the desire to cover the essentials.
The siren call of exploring the open road, yet the math formulas that won’t teach
themselves. Throughout our homeschooling
journey, I’ve aimed for a blend of seatwork (textbooks, online learning, and
group lessons) with field trips and real-world learning. Some topics are just better understood
through hands-on, experiential activities.
Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Seeing and experiencing live music cannot be replicated in
any other way, at least in my opinion. I
keep my eye out for such opportunities, and jump on them whenever
possible. Recently, we had the
opportunity to see the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble.
I wasn’t familiar with their work, although it turns out they have an
original song in The Hunger Games and are pretty well-known. Regardless, they were something
different. Nine African American young men
playing brass instruments- trumpets, trombones, and the like (plus their drummer in the back). Dressed like they were
off to hang out with their buds, and standing up, dancing around, not sitting
at music stands as such instruments may normally be played. It was an amazing sight to see, and we loved
them. My younger daughter couldn't wait to find them after the show, meet them, and get autographs. They were delighted to meet a fan, and happily posed for a photo. We've been talking about brass instruments since, and plan to delve into further study of this genre of music.
Not only are these types of events invigorating, but they
break up the monotony of the week.
Homeschooling gives us the opportunity to hand-pick the types of extras
that interest us, or that we’re lacking, or just plain old enjoy. I love the discussions that follow, the
pursuit of a new interest, and the broadened horizons that result from being
exposed to something new and unique.
Whether your family homeschools or just enjoys getting out in the community to experience new things, comment below to share your ideas for trips and outings that our Hudson Valley readers might enjoy.
Other articles by Stephanie Sandler