Additional Reviews
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| Move It ! Review 1 | Move It ! Review 2 | Move It ! Review 3 |
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| Joy of Jammin |
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Please click on the following sub headings to see the testimonials or reviews
Professional Development Testimonials“I wish to thank you for your contributions to the Orff Music and Movement Education Program at ACU in Melbourne. Your teaching in the classes has been inspirational. Your insights into the Orff approach and your ability to bring the participants contributions to the foreground is a wonderful example of music learning in action.” Christoph Maubach – Lecturer in Music Education ACU, Melbourne, VIC “I attended a workshop with Susie and Phil at the Christchurch College of Education which incorporated the principles of Orff Schulwerk. Susie used a holistic and integrated approach. As a dynamic and enthusiastic teacher she quickly managed to involve us all, at whatever level of expertise, in performing a piece that involved movement, body percussion, singing and playing instruments.” Diane Hopkins – teacher at Selwyn house School in Christchurch, NZ I wanted to let you know how inspired I feel each time I meet you guys- and it has only been three times! Your workshops are full of enthusiasm and ideas, and are incredibly practical because you are still teaching. Elana Shatari, Teacher Sydney, NSW I attended Susie Davies-Splitter ‘Orff Course’ in April, 03 and found it so relevant and practical. With so much emphasis on ‘hearing, feeling, thinking and doing’ in the Orff Schulwerk style, Susie’s music teaching has a marvellous appeal for children and teachers alike. K Warren – Orff Course, Auckland, NZ Have already done some work with the impro based on the chords you used for Jane Bacon, Qld Hi Susie and Phil, Sandy Robertson, Music teacher, Vic Maryborough music conference Desley Meads, Music Teacher, Qld Dear Susie and Phil, Ann Lee, Director, Opus Academy of Music, KL, Malaysia I was in the Get Orff Singing session that you led today and I enjoyed the session immensely - I felt so good afterwards it was like I had been meditating or had had a massage! The power of song! I really loved the way you began the session and went what felt like quite a way into it without verbalising to us, just using your expressions and gestures, with the few words you spoke being really just a vocal invitation to us to join in. Somehow it helped to flatten the inhibitions, and allowed a group of near strangers to sing their hearts out together! I know how restorative singing feels, yet like most people I forget to make time to include it in my daily life, and the session served as a refreshing reminder that to sing, especially in a group, is a very healing and unifying experience. Thanks again! The session was inspirational! Zoe Smith, student (LaTrobe Uni) Hi Susie and Phil. We certainly enjoyed your workshop! Thanks so much for all your hard work. The evaluations looked really good! It was very thorough...one comment was: "I felt like I experienced an entire conference in one day of music." Another comment, "I felt that this was great for helping us (adults) understand what it's like to be a kid." This last comment was from our student who was probably at her first Orff workshop. So many teachers are not used to participatory workshops...they are used to being lectured to! Another comment: "Fantastic!" Sixth grade teacher, "I got so many ideas for my 6th grade class both musically and in general classroom curriculum." Special Education Teacher, "The physical interaction between the activities and the music is perfect for all levels of my students." Elementary and College Music Teacher, "Phil and Susie Splitter are energetic, positive and full of ideas. Their pedagogy and process are clear and concise." Lynne E. Halterlein, teacher, Inland Counties Orff Chapter, USA Phil Splitter and Susie Davies-Splitter were the clinicians at the Orange County Chapter of the American Orff Schulwerk Association in October, 2007. Upon recommendation by one of our board members who had seen Phil and Susie present a workshop in Australia, I contacted them and asked if they would like to present at our chapter while on their way to present at the AOSA National Conference in San Jose, CA in November, 2007. As programs director for OCCAOSA, I handled our chapter communications and accommodations with the Splitters. They were incredibly easy to work with concerning workshop preparations. They presented their workshop to 60 music specialists, classroom teachers, college students and members of the Pacific Symphony Orchestra. Their music and Orff process was very engaging and received many compliments from Orff trained music specialists and others who attended their session. Their presentation was balanced with singing, instrument playing and movement as they demonstrated an exemplary style of Orff teaching and learning processes. Steve Myer, Vice-President and Programs Director In August 07, I attended two workshops by Susie Davies-Splitter and Phil Splitter, “Sing, Jam and Jive” for Primary School and “Teaching music made easy and fun” for Early Childhood. Having only made the change from secondary music teaching to primary this year, I relished the opportunity to gather more information about this vibrant and creative career. Susie and Phil base their teaching strategies on the Orff Schulwerk approach, i.e. integrating speech, singing, playing, movement, listening and dance. Although these particular workshops were aimed at primary and early childhood teachers, the approach is suitable for all levels of education right through to tertiary. In fact, a cross-culture of the teaching world was represented at the workshops, including a lecturer from USQ, three special education teachers and some general primary classroom teachers. Using a variety of Susie and Phil’s resources, the groups explored the following: We also looked at “ways in” through the blues and jazz. Our learning took place in exactly the same way the student’s would – through moving, singing and playing instruments. In a day we covered what could be taught (given the time restraints a primary music teacher faces!) in a year. Every couple of hours we sat down to recap over what we’d done, the experiences and teaching strategies employed. Susie shared her philosophy of music education with us, being that the primary goal is for each child to experience success and therefore to come away with an improved sense of self, of self-belief and confidence. That, amongst its many educational benefits, music can also be used as a tool to encourage the positive growth of every person. All songs and repertoire were learned through a mix of speech, solfa-singing, movement, dance and body percussion. We were given a variety of ways in which to approach new repertoire with children, which always makes it fun and exciting as well as a valuable learning experience. Day One was geared towards the eight to twelve year olds. Much of the repertoire had a strong jazz and blues base, incorporating scatting, improvisation and jazz chords and scales. Included was also some African music, Hip Hop, partner dancing and, of course, music with a distinctly Australian flavour. It was wonderful to see how easily many very difficult concepts could be incorporated into a Primary music program. The second day was aimed at Early Childhood. I had no idea how much fun puppets, slide whistles and guiros shaped like frogs could be! I was also impressed by the excellent sound quality of many of the instruments that have been designed especially for little people with their small shapes and amazing colours. I still have a very vivid memory of a lecturer at an in-service long ago telling us not to use instruments that look like toys, but rather to use “proper” instruments. Obviously he had never had the pleasure of playing and listening to boom-whackers, sound shapes and (my favourite) the frog guiro! Ribbons and scarves were also used to great effect. Techniques to use the tuned percussion instruments were also introduced and we all had a wonderful time accompanying many of the songs with xylophones, glockenspiels, chime bars and metallophones. My favourite tip of the day was perhaps “beaters in the pits” – having students place their beaters in their arm pits to bring all sounds to a halt. The workshops culminated in a surprise appearance by the ‘Piccolo’ group from the Brisbane Children’s Choir “Birralee Voices”. This choir, comprising of boys and girls aged between 6 and 9 years, performed two items for us and then joined in with Susie, Phil and the whole group as we explored a variety of activities aimed at adding interest to choir and class rehearsals. Without a doubt this will be remembered as one of the most fun and informative workshops and in-services that I have participated in. My only problem now is how to increase my budget in order to buy some more of those fabulous instruments – a chocolate drive perhaps? Leanne Laboo, ASME (Australian Society of Music Education), Qld Joy of Jammin’ course2007 Dear Susie! Christine Murname, classroom music teacher, Vic During the first week of the school holidays I was privileged to be able to attend the "Joy of Jammin" Improvisation Course with Susie Davies-Splitter. What an inspirational five days we had. We had 22 participants, and it didn't take long before Susie had us meeting each other, and remembering names. We had people from Singapore, China, Hong Kong, South Australia, Tasmania, NSW and Victoria and by the end of the course we felt that we had made some great new friends. Under Susie's guidance, we had the opportunity to improvise with our voices, xylophones, recorders and keyboards. We sang, danced and played instruments and gained in confidence throughout the week. Susie is an inspiring teacher, and she managed to coax some wonderful creations from even the most shy and those lacking in confidence. I learnt the piano for many years as I was growing up, and along with that I learnt the dreaded "theory". Susie made the theory come to life, and made it make sense. I now know how to improvise from one key to another on the piano - something I have wished I could do for years. I can also improvise with my voice. That was a pretty amazing experience. If you are thinking of doing this course, I urge you to definitely do it. You will go back to your schools or kindergartens with some fabulous material, and with a greater knowledge and understanding of how and why music is played. Heather Monro, Preschool music teacher, Vic This course shouldn't be missed. To be able to try improvisation in easy small steps in a safe environment is priceless! Susie is so encouraging and the music so "toe-tapping good" that it's easily the ideal place to step out and build your own confidence in this area. Once you can demonstrate improvisation for your students you can encourage them to improvise themselves. It really empowers them as they have a go, and some of them amaze you with what they have learned (or need to learn!). Allowing a student to improvise, for instance on recorder, gives you a really good chance to see what they can do on their own, and when this happens in the context of a whole song the group is well engaged while you assess individuals. I remember driving to the first day of the course wondering what I'd let myself in for. Aren't we all scared to improvise? Not only did I gain some valuable new repertoire, but a really useful assessment tool and a new skill. (It's quite something to be applauded by a class for "just making something up" on the spot!) Don't miss this one! Lynne Burt, Music teacher, Vic As the locals escaped chilly Melbourne for warmer climes, 22 participants travelled from every direction to enjoy some joyous jammin’ (albeit seriously joyous) with Susie Davies-Splitter for five very full days. The Joy of Jammin’, a course which was planned as part of Susie’s masterate study, aimed to provide participants with a safe environment to develop personal improvisation skills as well as teaching children to improvise. It certainly achieved this. In her usual style, Susie had prepared copious detailed notes which supported the new Welcome to Music resource ‘Sing , Jam and Jive’, focusing especially on improvisation. Those of us who completed the first night’s homework and read all 52 pages would have been aware in advance of the carefully sequenced progression from rhythm improvisation to melodic through pentatonic, simple 2, 3 and 4 chord progressions to 12 bar blues. Those who didn’t quite manage the first night’s homework gradually became aware of the cumulative building of knowledge and skill which was almost magical. Gradually as trust was established in the group and participants gained confidence, out came the clarinets, the violin and even saxophone, which added a welcome change of tone colour to the all the melodic percussion, recorders, guitars and of course vocal improvisation. Visiting guest Christoph Maubach offered a well judged change of pace on day 4 when our elemental music making became almost meditative. Given that this course was based on one resource, one could have expected that a full knowledge of that resource would be the best outcome. Although participants will now feel very familiar with ‘Sing Jam and Jive’, they will also be much more knowledgeable about how to use other material for improvisation. They have had practice at making effective use of solfa, they understand the function of the bass, harmony and rhythm sections and have had practice at arranging a song in Orff style. Their listening skills will be heightened to identify when to use doh or lah pentatonic scales or the aeolian or mixolydian modes, and their experiences of the blues scale will make jamming in 12 bar blues much more exciting. One of the delightful aspects of our five days was getting to know the other participants almost half of whom had come from outside Melbourne – Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Adelaide, Tasmania and New Zealand. As a gesture of welcome, the only male participant prepared kangaroo meat sushi which impressed the Asian women immensely! After 5 days of solid concentration, written homework and strong encouragement to practise each evening, the course culminated in a 12 bar blues jam with Susie at the piano and everyone consolidating their understanding of the blues scale. It was a wonderfully memorable way to end ‘the Joy of Jammin’ ( Part 1?) Thank you Susie for a brilliantly creative and empowering week. Shirley Harvey, Music Teacher, Auckland, NZ 2006Susie was very inspiring and a great teacher and facilitator of improvising in the group. She was encouraging and passionate about improvising and made the session very practical and fun to learn in Emily Anderson, violin teacher Are you confident at improvising or do you shudder at the thought? Are you willing to try and expand your musical experience? Come and do Susie’s course! Bronwyn Bedford, Head of Music, Grimwade House, Melbourne Grammar School I loved the course. One of the most inspiring and empowering and uplifting courses I’ve ever done. I have gained much skill and confidence improvising in singing, playing recorder, piano and harmonica thanks to Susie Gemma Helliar, Music Teacher, Ormond Primary Schools Susie was really encouraging and interested in helping each individual person. I now feel much more confident in improvising myself and in teaching improvisation to my students. Susie has shifted improvisation from the realm of no can do impossible, to within my reach. An excellent course, very well designed with highly valuable content. The presenter approaches every session with enthusiasm and creativity. Fantastic ideas for classroom teaching and improvisation. Kathryn Bullen, Classroom music teacher This course stimulated my desire to work on my own improvisation skills. More accurately, it gave me the confidence to use a variety of improvisation activities with my piano students both in a group setting and in their individual lessons. Helen Eager, studio piano teacher Susie has a natural ability to draw the best out of people. Althoug her own skills are undeniable, she accepts and welcomes those of us without these skills. She’s a wonderful teacher. Sarah Brooke, Music Lecturer, Latrobe University This was very well presented, thorough and inspirational. I now have so many more ideas and material to use in the classroom. Thanks Susie. Rhonda Vaughan, Classroom music teacher I feel much more confident encouraging my own students to explore improvisation Julia Trifonov, Music Educator Susie is an energetic, enthusiastic presenter who cheerfully encourages participants to come with her on an exciting, empowering journey. Thankyou – inadequate words - it’s been great! Lynne Burt, Music Teacher, Hartwell Primary School Opportunity to reconnect with your creative side, ideal for classical musicians who want to adapt to jazz improvisation. Lots of material to explore own skills and yet also to improve your teaching. Judy Firestone, Secondary music teacher and studio teacher Susie’s way of working is very inclusive and takes into account peoples’ strengths. Louise Docherty, Music Therapist Energise your students in the art of improvisation. Susie’s songs, games, dances and teaching strategies will enable every participant to engage in music making and try improvisation. Glenys Ferguson, Classroom music teacher This improvisation course provides the basic knowledge to enjoy real music making. The presenter is lively, interesting and demonstrates an excellent understanding of the topic. A thoroughly worthwhile and fun experience. Thanks Susie Desrae Burns, classroom music teacher Artist in Schools (AIS), Children’s Shows & Workshops - TestimonialsArtist in School programs Celia Gall, Head of Music, Haileybury College, VIC Two days of song, rhyme, movement, percussion playing, improvisation and making music together. Thank you for being our Artists in Residence. Kerry Allen, Director of Early Childhood, Canberra Grammar School, ACT What a great day. Susie and Phil had the whole school, all 175 children, singing, dancing and playing all day. Suddenly some of our students found new confidence and new skills and were able to participate and perform with enthusiasm, energy and new found skill. Greg Roberts, Music Specialist, St Mary Margarets School, VIC “Our Artist in Schools program had a Performing Arts emphasis and we were very excited by the program offered by Susie and Phil. They had a fantastic rapport with the children. We had a fantastic time and would love to have them back for longer.” Suzanne Kinnersly, Music Coordinator, Hawthorn West Primary School, VIC All students in our Junior School were involved in a wonderful day of music-making entitled “Mad about Music”. A series of dynamic and exciting workshops were given by our Artists-in-Residence Susie Davies-Splitter and Phil Splitter. Susie and Phil not only entertained us with their original, jazzy songs but they brought with them a myriad of percussion instruments including marimbas, xylophones, drums and homemade wacky instruments. Students were introduced to improvisation and ensemble work using voice and percussion instruments and in no time at all were ready to perform in an exciting whole school session which finished the day. An important focus of the day was the visit by a group of children from the South Sudanese community who participated alongside the Caulfield Grammar students. Susie and Phil fully embraced the cultural awareness aspect of the day, interacting positively and sensitively with all of the participants. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and joy for music that they inspired in both the students and staff involved. They have made a lasting impression on our school community and we look forward to working with them again in the future. JodieYemm & Marion Stafford, "Susie and Phil present an exciting and dynamic workshop that leave participants feeling energized and equipped to inspire their young students in music making that includes singing, movement, instrument playing and improvisation. Their creative approach is for all levels of ability and experience. Guaranteed learning and fun!" Lynn Kleiner, LA, USA Wow! What an amazing week. It was great to witness the power of music transform the whole school into a big musical ensemble. All aspects of the school community came together, through Susie and Phil, for the final outcome, which of course was the performance. The children were brought out of their “shells” and inhibitions to sing, create movements, play instruments, perform and extend on the talents they already had. With 700 children performing together with teachers and parents there to teach, witness and support, it encompassed the whole school philosophy of inclusion. Ian Phillips, Flagstone Primary School, Flagstone, Qld What an experience! Wish that we could have had another couple of weeks to see how far our students could have gone! Susie and Phil's visit to our school was just fantastic with the students still singing and playing some of their favourite songs. Everyone now knows what ostinato is thanks to Phil's - merge an ostrich and a tomato!! They worked with 640 students from Reception to Year 7 over three days - a tall order but one which was very professional, dynamic, entertaining and creative. Congratulations Susie and Phil. Kerry Martin, Music Teacher, Adelaide Rossmoyne Primary School was fortunate enough to have the pleasure of Susie and Phil's company for a day. They worked with all year levels on improvisation. As one staff member commented, "They had the kids eating out of their hands". The Junior students are still talking about 'the crazy conductor' and they're all asking me when we can purchase some sets of boomwhackers. It was great to see the kids so actively involved in performance. Wendy Oliver. Music Specialist , Rossmoyne Primary School., Perth WA Workshops and shows for special schools Mary Brake, Special Programs through Music A HUGE thank-you for coming and performing for our students on Monday. The students thoroughly enjoyed the show, and it was AMAZING to see some of our older boys leaving their inhibitions behind and participating in all aspects of your show. It is often hard to motivate some of our boys but your show provided the stimulation, humour and active participation that was needed to help them to relax, and enjoy music and performance. We have put up a display of photos from your performance in our performing arts room which has quickly become a popular discussion point! The staff who attended the performance were most impressed and some in awe! Thank-you again for visiting our school, and we look forward to continuing to use your music and resources as the back bone to our performing arts program. Kirsten Coulter, Concord School, Melbourne Music therapy Meredith Morrell, Tas Preschool show Sue Jetton, Director, Blackburn North Baptist Preschool, VIC Funkey Monkey shows in Singapore Patricia Koh, founder and Director of Pat’s Schoolhouse, Singapore THANK YOU for bringing Funkey Monkey into Singapore....we sure had fun! Sherlayne has been singing the songs from the concert ever since and I'm certain the other children have too. Caren Wan, teacher, Pat’s Schoolhouse, Singapore Dear Susie and Phil, Victoria Sinclair, parent, Singapore Commissioned Songs - TestimonialsThank you so much for composing our 50th Celebration Song “Strive for the Highest” in 2002. The lyrics and the music conveyed just the right message. The girls loved the way the song incorporated the different styles. We have received so much positive feedback from the girls, staff and parents. Your music inspired the girls to perform with enthusiasm and great joy. It was a delight to work with you both on this project. I felt proud to be performing such a fine calibre of Australian music. Anne-Marie Pigneguy, Coordinator of Junior School Music, Penrhos College, WA It is with great appreciation I acknowledge Phil and Susie for the outstanding work they did with our school to create a vibrant and well composed school song. The creativity, co-operation and consideration of our local conditions gave us a great result and I'm sure the song will "live" in the memories of the children for years to come. Due to our indecision we made the task difficult for Phil and Susie and shortened the timeline to have the song completed. However we received nothing but friendly and patient co-operation and every effort was made to meet revised deadlines. I am very thankful for the highly professional service we received throughout. So often attempts are made to create school songs with varying degrees of success. This process combined with the undoubted talents of Phil and Susie guarantee a high quality product. Greg Ward, Leschenhault, WA Thank you for helping us with an inspirational project to write our school song. The school choir rehearsals were exceptional for both choristers and choir teachers. 2006 will be remembered as the year of the school song. I feel very privileged to have seen the project through from its conception to completion. How fortunate were we to have found you! Thankyou also for attending the Community Evening to help us present the song to the school community. I think the audience applause said it all. All classes could be heard singing the song in preparation for the launch and the whole school rehearsed enthusiastically on a number of occasions. The children at every year level are embracing the song. Wonderful lyrics that capture the culture and aspirations of the school community. I hope we have the opportunity to work together again soon, Anne Cole, Music Teacher, Mitcham Primary School, Vic Preschool ProgramsSusie Davies Splitter joined us once a week for a term of musical experiences.
The children joined her in half groups for a half hour each. This half hour was filled with dancing, individual and group singing, instrument playing and musical games.
The children always had lots of fun and were enthusiastic and eager to participate with Susie. I believe this was in a large part due to Susie’s natural and vibrant personality. She was always very positive and encouraging to each child and formed a close understanding of each child’s personality and individual needs. As a teacher, I also gained a lot from Susie’s visit. It was a weekly inservice for myself with lots of new ideas…and even an improvement in my confidence of individual singing! Karen Annetts, Director, Surrey Hills Preschool, Vic Conferences, Seminars and Celebrations – TestimonialsECTA conference Robbie Leikvold, ECTA Conference Co-Convener. Qld Mt Evelyn Early childhood conference Cath Wood, Vic Hunter Children’s Services Forum Inc. Early Childhood Conference in Newcastle, NSW. “Great! A fantastic presentation, well sequenced & extremely practical” “A most enjoyable workshop…my shoes are still tapping” “I took away some great ideas and still have the inspirational music in my head” “A lot of fun, loads of learning” “Their passion shone thru, very encouraging” “Excellent, and not intimidating in any way” It certainly was a pleasure dealing with Susie and Phil and we hope the opportunity arises again some day soon! It would be an honour to recommend this duo to anyone requiring a high energy, motivating presentation and/or an extensive range of practical and educational music resources. Michelle Stone, Project Officer, Hunter Children’s Services Forum Inc. Education Week Open Evening, Jells Park Primary School, Vic Jells Park Primary School have recently purchased all of Susie and Phil’s Educational resources and have already experienced the success of performing their inspiring songs. The beauty of the books and CD’s is their versatility. They are appropriate for children and adults of all ages. They allow for individual differences within your class group, providing challenge for beginners and experienced musicians. Susie and Phil really are two of our National Treasures. They are very generous with their compositions and have made a set of valuable resources accessible to all. They are to be congratulated on their achievements. I can’t wait to hear and see their next creative venture and neither can my students! Mrs Ann Earle, Music Teacher, Jells Park Primary School Junior School Heads Association of Australia, Biennial Conference, Melb Sheona Carter, Head of Junior School, Korowa Girls School, VIC Choral events and resources testimonialsI love your material. We use Move it and Razzamajazz throughout the school. The kids favourite is "The Backyard Blues" and I think "True Friends" which I use with the choir, is just brilliant. Our choir (120 kids aged 8 to 11) , plus a dozen extras on recorders, glocks, rhythm instruments are in rehearsal at the moment with "A Better Place" which we will perform mid year, at a huge musical event for kids that our city holds annually - we can't wait to show it off! I work mostly with older primary children and it's so hard to find songs that are not too "geeky", and I'm convinced that Jazz and Swing styles with full band sound for backing is the way to get them hooked. We appreciate these fine resources you produce. 'Toni Griffin', Mangapapa School, NZ 3.04 My kids LOVED Life's a Celebration, which was one of the songs you generously allowed us all to use for the West Coast Warblers Festival in Joondalup. We used it in the choir for the festival, then I taught it as a whole school song, & it was the best we've had all year - lots of good comments from the staff & parents. Anne Trigg, Administrator ASME WA Dec 03 Hi Susie! I have been recommending your Welcome to Music series to heaps of teachers- one of my ex students (I taught her when she was in Year 4,5,6) just got a High Distinction on prac for a lesson using 'Umbalayo". Jenny Whiteman, Sydney, NSW In my role as choral Director of two primary choirs Susie and Phil’s choral arrangements have also been an important part of my repertoire. The young choristers find the songs really interesting and are able to learn them quickly. When it’s time for performances the backing tracks are an added bonus and certainly contribute to the overall sound and presentation. Kathryn Bullen, Music Teacher, Grimwade House, Melb Grammar, Melb, VIC Each year we present ‘Hillsongs’, a yearly choral festival for local school choirs, who present their own items and take part in a massed choir. This year Susie Davies- Splitter was the musical director and Phil Splitter was the Stage Manager and co-presenter. Susie and Phil made a fantastic contribution to the overall success of the Hillsongs 2004 District Choral Concert. Comments made by audience and teachers were that the two massed choral and instrumental songs were wonderful - the songs written by the Splitters were simple, catchy, easy to learn and very suitable for the occasion. Susie and Phil brought out the best in the students. Their enthusiasm was catching, the children were keen, performed well and had a wonderful experience. Maggie Duncan, Coordinator DRMC Dear Susie, Vicki Bywater I continue to recommend your products and have every one of them in my resources at Warnbro Primary. We have a Junior Music Festival in our district next week and are performing "Dinky Di Aussie". The kids love it and I'm sure the parents will too. Our Senior Festival in September has selected "Feel The Joy" and "Down Under In Australia" for two of the four massed singing songs and our school is performing "Life's A Celebration" as our item. The kids took to it on day one of rehearsals and can't stop singing it. Thank you both so much for the uplifting songs that you create. It makes music teaching so rewarding. All the best for your workshops. I'm sure they'll be a great success as always. Julie Rob, music specialist, Warnbro Primary School, WA After attending several workshops with Susie and Phil at the Maryborough Music Teachers’ Conference I felt motivated to invite them to work with our little community choir (and a few extras) in Caboolture, Qld. We are so grateful that they accepted our invitation because we had a fantastic two hours of magical vocal harmonies, movement to music and moments of riotous mayhem! What a thrill to see people from teens to 80+’s united in singing songs which refuse to recognise the concept of a generation gap. Thanks for the experience. Laurelle Olsson – Conductor, Caboolture Community Choir, Qld The Majallen Singers are an a capella choir and while we enjoy performing all genres of music, the Gorgeous Voices Festival in Bendigo took us out of our comfort zone, took our noses out of the music and exposed us to singing from memory, by ear and improvisation and most especially introduced us to dynamic, newly composed music for us to learn and to share. Because we don’t write our own song material, Glenys approached Susie Davies-Splitter for the choir to present some of her new songs for the festival. We were delighted to present her songs at the festival. “Imagine If” and “Just Being Me” were two songs which we shared with Anni Coyne’s choir from Castlemaine. “Just Being Me” was easily taught because of its short verse/chorus melodies and its appealing words. The tune of the chorus lingers in your mind, along with the positive self-image lyrics. The songs were pleasantly embellished by ostinato, and for those musically literate there was a counter melody to sing over both verse and chorus. At the group sharing, the following day the group did a great job considering we went on “cold” with no practice beforehand and just the time we had shared together the previous day. Shows just how suitable the song was for memorising! We improvised a short vocal/sung section of special things about ourselves to give the piece an extra section and to allow for improvisation – a skill that extends but is challenging for the ‘music readers’. All went as rehearsed and the song was well received. “Imagine If” is a beautiful simple song and together with its chorus works as partner melodies. The third part’s long sustained notes hauntingly emphasis its message of peace. This was our favourite melody (of the two songs) and it was thoroughly enjoyed by all, taking less time to put together and creating pleasant harmonies, especially when the risk-takers embellish it with improvisation. Glenys Ferguson, Music Teacher Vic ‘Welcome to Music’ – TestimonialsThe recordings are as usual utterly professional. I particularly appreciate the high standard of singing which provides an excellent model for children – something which many teachers feel unable to do themselves. I would highly recommend this Series for teachers who are looking for motivating material to use right through to Year 6, whether they are music specialists, or generalist classroom teachers who can select what they feel able to manage. This inspiring collection could also be the answer to that assembly item you are responsible for next term! Shirley Harvey, Music Specialist, Belmont Primary School, Auckland NZ Susie and Phil’s lively CD recordings are attractive and appealing. The children’s physical response is a clear indication that they are immediately engaged by the jazzy rhythms, colourful harmonies and the easy to remember words. Every class has a list of favourite songs from the extensive repertoire of “Welcome to Music”. I am very thankful to have discovered the “Welcome to Music” series. It has been an invaluable contribution to my music program, has saved me hours of time in planning, and most of all has provided my students with a sound musical education with heaps of fun and pleasure. Kathryn Bullen, Music Teacher, Grimwade House, Melb Grammar, Melb, VIC I have been working with your music now for ten years. I believe that you have contributed a very significant resource to education through your collection of CDs and teacher’s manuals. As a music teacher/program designer for students who are not engaged by the general mainstream curriculum, your material has proved invaluable. Its uniqueness seems to be imbedded in a variety of attributes that I have found available in no other music collection. Thankyou so much for the gift that you have given to those of us dedicated to ensuring that all students are engaged, that facilitation is made for all students to participate, that all students have a voice, that all students experience success and that all students have fun and enjoyment in an educational setting. Keep writing and composing for us please! Mary Brake, Music Educator, ESK Support Services, Tasmania Thank you for everything you offer in music. The work and the material you & Phil produce is outstanding. David Turner, music teacher, Tasmania “Susie and Phil have developed what we believe to be one of the best series of children and youth CDs and curriculum for today’s audiences. Their music is developmentally appropriate and encompasses current music trends that help all ages stay tuned in. the recording quality is first rate and surpasses much of the market in providing inspiring lyrics and song forms that are easy to teach and sing. Susie and Phil bring a wealth of knowledge and experience as world class musical performers and educators.” Gary and Jeanne Wurtz – Tune Tales, Seattle, USA I have been using materials by Susie Davies-Splitter and Phil Splitter with children ages 7-11 for the past year. I am delighted to have
discovered their materials. The children love the movement activities,
and they are requested over and over again. We've performed the Scoo Be Doo song with the Red Deer Children's Choir, and have delighted
audiences with the use of the actions that are suggested, and with the
ability of the children to perform a song in four parts! Susie and Denise Gagne, Alberta Canada The CD, ‘Move It’ provides such a wonderful diversity of styles of music, introducing children to concepts of syncopation as in ‘Fruity Samba’, scatting and improvisation in ‘Sing & Scat’ and beautiful simple singing as in the four part rounds, ‘Greetings’ and ‘Goodbye’. The simple acoustic accompaniments contrast well with the rock'n'roll and rap numbers between. The backing tracks can be very useful for teachers. A gold-mine of ideas and a must in every music teacher's resource collection! Anna Mlynek-Kalman (M.Mus.Ed., B. Ed., Dip. Teach., A.Mus.A.), Music Consultant, Importantly, both Susie and Phil have a strong commitment to values, especially friendship, of which the song True Friends (from the ‘Move It’ CD) is a good example. Their approach to teaching music is holistic and focuses on the development of the whole child. Beth Rankin, Music Lecturer, University of Melbourne, VIC Just have to tell you how much inspiration and enthusiasm arose from our whole Junior School singing "I can do it" at assembly. It was a magical experience. As well , my Junior School Choir have given several performances of "Have fun while you're still alive". The children and I just love all your music. I am about to teach them "Strive for the Highest". Great stuff! Keep it up. Stephanie Rickard, Head Junior School Music, Mowbray College, Vic ‘Anything is Possible’ CD Dianne Kuyken, Music Teacher, St Paul's Anglican Grammar School, Traralgon Campus,Vic ‘I can do it’ song Michele Verhagen, music teacher, Dorset Primary School, Croydon, Melbourne A while ago I purchased your 'Anything is Possible' series. I would like to let you know that our school presentation choir sang 'Strive for the Highest' at our graduation ceremony for the Year 6's. Everyone commented on the beautiful melody line and how fitting the lyrics were for our students. Thankyou for composing such wonderful inspirational music. I think you do a fantastic job and if it helps children in their love of music all the better. Dianne Kuyken, Music Teacher, St Paul's Anglican Grammar School Hi Susie and Phil, Keira Cowell, Performing Arts, Belgrave South Primary School, Vic I continue to recommend your products and have every one of them in my resources at Warnbro Primary. We have a Junior Music Festival in our district next week and are performing "Dinky Di Aussie". The kids love it and I'm sure the parents will too. Our Senior Festival in September has selected "Feel The Joy" and "Down Under In Australia" for two of the four massed singing songs and our school is performing "Life's A Celebration" as our item. The kids took to it on day one of rehearsals and can't stop singing it. Thank you both so much for the uplifting songs that you create. It makes music teaching so rewarding. Julie Rob, Warnbro Primary Music Specialist, WA I had only heard your music last year, and thought it was absolutely sensational – I’d never heard anything like it, and I was blown away to hear such innovative, entertaining, educational Australian music for children. I recently did Banjo the Bunyip with the children, and they absolutely loved it, and still do – it’s often requested. We even performed it for the mums our Mother’s Day morning, and got rave reviews. Keep up the fantastic work! Kerry Dornau, Pre-Prep Teacher, Ruyton Girls' School, Melb Hi Susie, Suzanne Minards Orff Member SAs "Thank you Susie & Phil for inspiring me to start my own babies music class. Your passion, professionalism and approachability is admirable. Looking forward to ECCPA this year for more inspiration & ideas! Keep up the exceptional work...I don't know where Australian music education would be without you both." Katie Hull-Brown, Primary Music Teacher, Funkey Monkey CD Sandra Mohyluk, Music teacher, Qld We have been using ‘Funky Monkey’ this week, which the children love doing the ‘Groove Train’ and have a giggle at Funky Monkey's red underpants!!!! It has put some excitement back into my music groups for both the children and myself! Janette Carr, Teacher-St Columbas Kindergarten, Sale, Vic Song awards Kerry Katich, Perth WA MusicalsHi Susie & Phil, Michelle Mackinnon, Music teacher Dear Susie & Phil, Rae Telfer (director/producer), Korowa Anglican Girls’ Grammar School, Vic E-news - Musicnotes – TestimonialsDear Susie and Phil, Karen Wandel, Preparatory Music Specialist, SA Hi Susie and Phil, Marlene Rattigan, Early Childhood Educator and Author, WA |
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