March 19, 2012 Music and lessons
Monday, March 19, 2012 at 01:06PM 
Gabe had a concert on Thursday with his middle school. Literally hundreds of children play at this school. This year there were so many that they had to have two classes of sixth graders. The sixth graders took up 2/3rds of a gym floor. So many in fact, that after they played they had to go sit down so the seventh and eighth graders could play. What was remarkable was the command this teacher had of all the students. She moves her hands and instantly the students respond. So think of two gym floors of students under her spell. The students played remarkable well.
But the next day was a very sad day for her, all the orchestra students, and the bus riders and town of Bellevue, Washington. The teachers sister was hit during the concert by a bus and died. The woman road the buses of Bellevue and was recognized by her cheerful greeting.
I think this is Gabe's first meeting with death. Twelve is about the right time, and the meeting was an introduction, but valuable.
Reader Comments (3)
I didn't know the woman hit was her sister. So sad. PLMS has a great music program, and I am happy that Gabe has stuck with it. I love your picture:).
Great picture! You left out that this music program is all strings - violings, violas, cellos, bass - nothing more . There is an entirely separate and poplular band program too.
In any event, the instructor clearly has a special gift - she is Gabe's favorite teacher because "she makes music so fun" and I know the other students share his opinion. I hope her music and students bring her some comfort during this difficult time.
What a great picture of grandfather and grandson together. It's a very sad thing when a child must experience death, but for some it seems to be more traumatic than for others. I'm sure Gabe's parents will encourage some meaningful conversation which will help work him through this.