OUR PROGRAMS
Lessons for violin, viola, cello and bass in a classroom setting, through private lessons, ensembles and a youth symphony.
Music is a Science
It is exact, specific; it demands exact acoustics. A conductor's full score is a chart, a graph - which indicates frequencies, intensities, volume changes, melody and harmony all at once and with the most exact control of time.
Music is Mathematical
It is rhythmically based on the subdivision of time into fractions - which must be done instantaneously, not worked out on paper.
Music is a Foreign Language
Most of the terms are in Italian, German, or French; and the notation is certainly not in English - but a highly developed kind of shorthand that uses symbols to represent ideas. The semantics of music make it the most complete and universal language.
Music is Physical Education
It requires fantastic coordination of fingers, hands, arms, lips, cheek, and facial muscles, in addition to extraordinary control of the diaphragmatic, back, stomach, and chest muscles, which respond instantly to the sounds that the ear hears and the mind interprets.
Music is Art
The techniques and style of music allow us to create emotion. Along with humanism and feeling - these are things that science cannot duplicate.
Why Teach Music?
"The Dorothy Gerber program influenced our son in numerous positive ways! Our son joined the program at age 8 and stayed involved for eleven years. He went from a beginner to a topnotch musician who enjoyed ensemble music camp over the last two summers. We are extremely grateful to the program for providing free classes and scholarships on rental instruments. Without the support of the Gerber family, our son would not have become the fine cellist that he is today.
This year's cello concerto and duet ensemble with violinist teacher were most rewarding. Plus he was delighted to be assigned the role of an assistant. He has enjoyed playing on many levels of orchestra from beginning to youth orchestra - concert, chamber and symphony.
Music has built his confidence and his memory skills. Attending music class was the highlight of my son's week. I truly believe it is food for the soul. There were always expert teachers to teach proper technique and to share beautiful classical music; they demonstrated ways to interpret the music with feeling and emotion. This expertise and modeling were essential in developing his musical artistry. The program also impacted our son’s community involvement. He played in the Youth Orchestra, at local Fiddler's Jamborees, at festivals, at square dances, at church events and even for other orchestras when they needed a cellist. He learned to serve the community joyfully with his talents. He learned to be patient with himself, focused and disciplined through practice.
The glowing smile on my son's face at the end of this year's spring concert was so satisfying. All the work had culminated in very special memories. The love of music and the skills acquired will last a lifetime! I cannot thank the Gerber Family enough for their love of music and their continual gift of encouragement to young people so that they can develop to their full potential!"
–Robin Ray