Why Arts Education Is Crucial, and Who’s Doing It Best
Involvement in the arts is associated with gains in math, reading, cognitive ability, critical thinking, and verbal skill. Arts learning can also improve motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork.
I was watching “Rainman” this past w/e on my local PBS station, and thought of Leslie…autistic savant…plays piano and sings. Leslie’s story HERE.
I first learned of Leslie in college in the spring of 1987 when I took an Intro to Music Therapy class. I was VERY moved by this man, and I am still amazed.
According to IMDB.com, Dustin Hoffman was originally to play the part of Charlie Babbit in “Rainman” (Tom Cruise’s character), but after being moved to tears seeing a “savant” named Leslie Lemke (who is blind, retarded, and has cerebral palsy) play full concertos on the piano by ear, he decided to play the part of Raymond instead.
Hoffman was also inspired by Kim Peek.
Just a reminder of how powerful music can be.
From 1981….“That’s Incredible.” Interview w/May and Leslie. More recent videos HERE.
John Coltrane (Sax) – Music on Paper Comes to Life “Giant Steps”
Thanks to my High School friend, Paul, for sending this to me.
Mon Feb 9 – Classes Canceled due to illness
Webster Groves
9:20 Our Time
10:15 Imagine That
11:20 Family Time
5:15 Young Child 2
6:30 Our Time
Make-up will be Mon Mar 23 (instead of Spring Break).
