Musical Guests

by Julie Banks

As the Music teacher for our missionary kids, I’m always trying to find creative ways to allow the students to experience music in any way that we can. When I was in elementary school, I remember taking a field trip to the Symphony Orchestra to learn about stringed instruments. I remember the blasts of brass instruments in the marching band of the local football team, and I remember singing in large choirs. Well, we don’t have any of those experiences to offer the kids, but what we do have is a surprisingly musical team!

Here is a little glimpse of our “field trips” to different houses around our missionary compound and our musical guests who are generous to let the students see first-hand several musical instruments.

We made our own paper ACCORDIONS so that we could “play along” with Uncle Eric (McLaughlin) as he demonstrated this oh-so-complicated instrument! 

Aunt Michelle (Wendler) shared her CELLO with us, and even let the kids take a turn.

Who knew Uncle Michael (Harling) played the FRENCH HORN? This is one he actually found in Burundi, and he is replacing parts and fixing it up!

Uncle Eric showed us why the PIANO is considered a percussion instrument. The kids loved watching the hammers inside.

One time we had a British nurse visit us for a few days, and she just happened to bring her VIOLIN!

They even got to rock out while Liam Banks showed them how cool the ELECTRIC GUITAR is! (video)

So fun for these kids to grow up surrounded by musicians!