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The Children's Music Foundation Newsletter April 2010
Time to Create the Video Portion of First Note!

MF Practicing

Last year, we filmed the 4 beta test lessons that are currently being used and evaluated in several states . Our own classroom observations coupled with teacher feedback make clear the importance of the Music Friends--those kids on the video that the classroom students mirror-- and the visiting cultural guests.
 
Upcoming Auditions 
 
MF Set
 
We will soon be auditioning 5 to 8 year-old kids that will appear in the full pilot version of First Note. The ability to sing and work for extended periods in a studio setting will be required.  
 
If you have an interest in hearing more or having your child considered please email Paulette Evans at paulette@cmfinc.org 
 
 
 
 
  
 
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Thank you, Lucky 7 Foundation and others! 
 
Thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Lucky 7 Foundation and additional gifts from private donors, we are able to complete our work on the written curriculum.  Now on to the video portion!  
 
The Teachers' Top Ten
 
McAuliffe Kids StandingWe spent the last month compiling more feedback from our teachers participating in our beta test program. Over half our teachers have finished and we are excited about what they are saying. Along with the top ten things they love about the First Note program, they are giving us suggestions for improvement. They have shared some great ideas that we plan on integrating in our final 30-lesson pilot this fall.
 
Below are the things teachers liked best about the program in the order listed:

1.  Lessons/program were easy to follow, clear and concise
2.  Instruments: kids loved the shakers
3.  Music Man: good energy, friendly, great role model for boys, makes it fun, connects with kids.
4.   Movement in the lessons: kids love it.
5.   Special Guests: Cultural Diversity, playing instruments (Teachers & students want more time and info about guest.)
6.    Calm Body: relaxation technique
7.    Music Vocabulary: Word of the Week
8.    Lesson set up: clear, easy to follow
9.     Program is original & creative
10.  Review element in lesson
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CMF Welcomes New Board Member
 
CMF is fortunate to have Mulugheta ('Mulu') Abraham join our board of directors.  Read more about him on our website (http://cmfinc.org/?page_id=67). Welcome aboard, Mulu!

 
If you have an interest in providing support or hearing more about First Note, please contact us at Paulette@cmfinc.org   
 
 Sincerely,
 FN Materials
Rourke  M. O'Brien 
The Children's Music Foundation, Inc. 
 
The Children's Music Foundation, Inc.
608 State Street S., Suite 100
Kirkland, Washington 98033
www.cmfinc.org
425-250-2390

ic Foundation, Inc.
608 State Street S.
Kirkland, Washington 98033