March 2024 Newsletter
In This Month’s Newsletter
The Benefits of Children Performing in Musical Theater
Important Dates
Welcome Our New Students
Student of the Month
Days and Deeds of Dr. Dennis
A Melodic Journey Through Irish Heritage: Exploring the History and Cultural Background of Iconic Irish Songs
Music Playdates in the Park
Interested in unschooling?
Upcoming Recitals and Forums
Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?
Referral Program
The Benefits of Children Performing in Musical Theater
Musical theater is a captivating art form that combines acting, singing, and dancing to create a vibrant and engaging experience for both performers and audiences. While it may seem like mere entertainment, children who participate in musical theater reap a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond the stage. From self-expression to cognitive development, let's explore the various advantages that come with children immersing themselves in the world of musical theater.
At its core, musical theater is a platform for self-expression and creativity. Through acting, singing, and dancing, children have the opportunity to explore and showcase their talents, imagination, and emotions. They learn to embody different characters, convey a range of emotions, and tell compelling stories. This creative outlet nurtures their artistic abilities and encourages them to think outside the box.
Performing in front of an audience requires confidence and self-assurance. By participating in musical theater, children gradually overcome stage fright and develop the courage to step out of their comfort zones. The applause and positive feedback they receive contribute to building their self-esteem. Each successful performance boosts their self-confidence, instilling a sense of accomplishment and belief in their abilities.
Musical theater is a collaborative art form that demands effective communication and teamwork. Children learn to interact and work harmoniously with fellow performers, directors, choreographers, and technicians. They develop essential social skills such as active listening, cooperation, compromise, and respect for others' ideas and contributions. Through this shared experience, they forge lasting friendships and build a network of support.
Participating in musical theater requires discipline and focus. Rehearsals demand consistent practice, memorization of lines, songs, and choreography, and a commitment to meeting deadlines. Children learn the value of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. They develop time management skills, as they balance schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and rehearsals. This discipline and focus extend beyond the theater, benefiting them in various aspects of their lives.
The world of musical theater presents numerous challenges that necessitate problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Children encounter situations where they must think on their feet, adapt to unexpected changes, and find creative solutions. Whether it's improvising during a scene, adjusting to technical difficulties, or collaborating on a complex ensemble number, they learn to be resourceful, flexible, and resilient.
Musical theater exposes children to a diverse array of stories, characters, and cultures. Through their participation, they develop an appreciation for different perspectives and experiences. They learn to empathize with characters from various backgrounds, fostering an understanding of diversity and promoting inclusivity. This exposure broadens their horizons and nurtures a global mindset.
IMPORTANT DATES
St. Patrick's Day, Sunday - March 17
Palm Sunday - March 24
Easter Sunday - March 31
Upcoming Recitals and Forums
Recital: In - Person
Saturday, May 11, 9:30 am and 10:30 am
RSVP required
Shepherd of the Hills UMC 26001
Muirlands Blvd Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Please welcome
our NEW Students who enrolled
in January
Daniel G.
Teddy M.
Daniel V.
Student of the Month
Jason Pham
Jason started taking piano lessons in May 2021. His favorite thing about playing the piano is being able to play the songs that he likes. If Jason has a chance to learn another instrument in the future, he would like to play the violin because the violin makes a very unique and beautiful harmony.
Math is Jason's favorite subject in school. He enjoys doing math equations and has fun playing with numbers. Besides playing the piano, Jason also likes to read books and build Legos in his spare time. "Reading helps me learn new words and gives me knowledge about the world around me, while Legos teaches me to be patient and creative and gives me a sense of joy when I finish building a challenging set."
A Melodic Journey Through Irish Heritage: Exploring the History and Cultural Background of Iconic Irish Songs
In the rich tapestry of Irish culture, music stands as a vibrant thread, weaving tales of love, longing, resilience, and pride. Among the myriad melodies that resonate with audiences worldwide, several iconic Irish songs have captured hearts and stirred emotions for generations. Let us embark on a melodic journey through the history and cultural background of some of the most beloved Irish tunes, including "My Wild Irish Rose," "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling," "Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral," and the timeless ballad "Danny Boy."
"My Wild Irish Rose"
Composed by Irish-American songwriter Chauncey Olcott in 1899, "My Wild IrishRose" is a tender ballad that celebrates the beauty and allure of Ireland. Olcott, himself of Irish descent, drew inspiration from his ancestral roots to pen this timeless melody. The song's lilting melody and romantic lyrics evoke images of lush green landscapes, blooming roses, and the enchanting spirit of the Emerald Isle. "My Wild Irish Rose" became an instant sensation, resonating with the Irish diaspora worldwide and cementing its place as a quintessential Irish anthem.
"When Irish Eyes Are Smiling"
Penned by American songwriters Chauncey Olcott, George Graff Jr., and Ernest Ball in 1912, "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" exudes the joy and warmth of Irish hospitality. The song's cheerful melody and uplifting lyrics celebrate the infectious charm of the Irish people and their ability to find happiness amidst adversity. With its catchy refrain and spirited verses, "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" has become synonymous with St. Patrick's Day celebrations and Irish pride, embodying the enduring spirit of the Irish diaspora.
"Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral (That's an Irish Lullaby)"
Written by lyricist and composer James Royce Shannon in 1914, "Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral" is a nostalgic lullaby that captures the tender bond between a parent and child. The song's gentle melody and soothing lyrics paint a picturesque scene of an Irish mother singing her baby to sleep with tales of rolling hills, shamrocks, and the comforting embrace of home. "Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral" struck a chord with audiences worldwide, embodying the timeless allure of Irish lullabies and the enduring legacy of Irish familial bonds.
"Danny Boy"
No exploration of iconic Irish songs would be complete without mention of "Danny Boy." This haunting ballad, with lyrics by English songwriter Frederic Weatherly, set to the tune of the traditional Irish melody "Londonderry Air," is a poignant ode to love and loss. "Danny Boy" tells the story of a parent bidding farewell to their child, evoking themes of longing, separation, and the enduring bond of family ties. With its stirring melody and emotive lyrics, "Danny Boy" has become a symbol of Irish identity and resilience, captivating audiences with its timeless beauty.
Preserving Irish Musical Heritage
As we traverse the melodic landscapes of these iconic Irish songs, we are reminded of the profound impact of music in preserving cultural heritage and fostering a sense of identity and belonging. Through melodies that span generations and continents, Irish music continues to weave its spell, connecting hearts and minds in a timeless celebration of the Emerald Isle's rich cultural legacy. Let us cherish and preserve these musical treasures, ensuring that the spirit of Ireland's songs lives on for generations to come.
Days & Deeds of Dr. Dennis
I grew up in North Tustin which borders Santa Ana, and our address always said Santa Ana because we are a part of that zip code (92705). I spent a lot of time in the city of Santa Ana! It’s the home of my alma mater, Mater Dei High School, and it’s the home of the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA), where my daughter attended junior high school in the classical voice program. When I was in high school, I took piano lessons and taught piano lessons at the Lo-Kno-Pla Music Institute, the studio of Ruth Stevenson Alling, which was located on Main Street in Santa Ana. Today, I co-direct an after-school choral program for youth called KidSingers, which rehearses at First Presbyterian Santa Ana in downtown Santa Ana. In my youth, I was interested in magic, and as a magician I performed lots of magic shows around Orange County, including at libraries and for private birthday parties. One of my favorite places to go to buy magic tricks was a pawn shop in Santa Ana called, Bentley’s Trading Post. I have many memories of taking the bus home from school, going through the city, and transferring routes at the Santa Ana Civic Center. At Mater Dei, we held our football games and musicals at Santa Ana College, and after games, we often ate burgers and fries at Bob’s Big Boy!
Inspirations
"Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children."
- Proverbs 17:6
"March bustles in on windy feet and sweeps my doorstep and my street."
- Susan Reiner
Music Playdates in the Park
Laguna Niguel and surrounding areas.
Weekly playdates on Wednesday mornings from 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Meet friends, dance a little, sing along, and play with some musical instruments and other fun toys!
Find us near the playground. Free to all participants!
Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?
March 2024
To encourage everyone to read the Dennis Frayne Music Studio Newsletter, each month we’ll feature a new contest winner or a new contest. Be sure to read your newsletter each month to see if your name has been drawn or you might miss out!
This month’s winner is Sophia Monarrez
Sophia has won 10 tickets which can be redeemed for prizes at the
Dennis Frayne Music Studio, Laguna Niguel!
To collect your prize tickets just bring this to the office.
Congratulations, Sophia!
Everyone, be sure to read your newsletter each month!
