Leaving for Scotland

Shanna and I are headed off to the International Sistema Teacher’s Conference in Scotland to meet with delegates from El Sistema-inspired programs around the world.  We will be blogging from Scotland to report on what we learn at the sessions, the people we meet, and the things we see! 

I’m excited for what promises to be an inspiring week.  I am most looking forward to hearing different people’s perspectives, ideas, and experiences.  All the delegates at the conference are involved with ESI programs, but come from varying locations.  I have so many questions! What are the circumstances and contexts of ESI programs in other countries?  How do the programs differ?  How are they the same?  What are the students and families like?  What instruments are being played and what music is being taught?  What does this mean for Paterson Music Project? I imagine that despite initial differences, we will find much commonality in our goals, the students we work with, our struggles and triumphs. 

You don't always realize that you are part of a global movement while entrenched in the day-to-day tasks of running a music program.  However, this week, we get to bask in all things Sistema and spend time with like-minded, passionate, motivated, and devoted music educators and advocates.  More to come soon!

~ Liz

Liz and Shanna leaving from Newark Airport