LMM according to Dilys: the second commentary on our Internship Programme

Posted by Charlotte Hintzen on 4 May 2010 | 0 Comments

Tags: LMM Internship Programme, Bridge Project, Bridge Approach, Ashmole Primary School

I arrived at the Ashmole Primary School a little nervous and also a little late, having got myself lost on route! On arrival I was introduced by Charlotte to a number of people whose  names and roles I instantly forgot! (You would think as a teacher I might be better with names!) I then stood with Charlotte, and the person I now know to be Rachel, at the back of the school hall and watched as the room gradually filled up with parents, students and teachers, an activity accompanied by the sounds of a last minute Bridge Project rehearsal. As the yr 1 and 2 performance began, I looked on in fear, remembering the horror of a chorus of beginner violins from my youth with the local music service. But instead I looked on in amazement as the year 1 and 2 students played, not only in tune but as an ensemble and with confidence and skill! They finished with a slightly clumsy and very cute bow and were given a huge applause from the audience.

This was the beginning of my first day as an intern with London Music Masters, providing me with an instant understanding of the positive and outstanding musical outcomes of the Bridge Project. It also made clear the number of lives LMM is impacting through music and education. It was also really good fun!

Through the following weeks I have been mainly office based as the schools have been on holidays. This has given me opportunity to learn about the way in which LMM is run and make some contribution to the work going on. In addition to my work in the office I have also had a very exciting opportunity to attend an evening performance by LMM award winner Agata Szymczewska at Victoria’s house. The evening was fantastic and very successful; it was an amazing opportunity to see such a talented violinist performing in such a small, personal environment.

In the next few weeks I’m looking forward to spending some time getting involved in the Bridge Project, taking part and observing some of the lessons, helping me learn exactly what the ‘Bridge Approach’ is and maybe use some ideas in my own teaching practice.