February 2012
5 posts
Reason at the Gates: A Response to a Lecture on...
Nothing is so convenient as a decisive argument of this kind, which must at least silencethe most arrogant bigotry and superstition, and free us from their impertinent solicitations. I flatter myself, that I have discovered an argument of a like nature, which, if just, will, with the wise and learned, be an everlasting check to all kinds of superstitious delusion, and consequently, will be...
Political Consciousness
“Man is a political animal” (Aristotle, Politics)
I have been listening to the news more. In December, I stumbled onto Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzales and Nermeen Shaikh, and their style of reporting—characterized, for me, by their attention to the perspectives of the members of afflicted communities (as opposed to just the leaders), non-specialists commentators, citizen...
The Elpis School
The classroom dynamic becomes more durable over time, but it is also true that the smallest things can make or break an individual class. Today, for example,I was relatively prepared to finish teaching a song by the Wailin’ Jennys (One Voice), and, for most of the rehearsal, three of my more reliable singers were not only distracted, but unusually distracting.
I became frustrated with them,...
Liberal Arts Young Teacher Conference
Reminder to self: This could be a good idea.
Becoming a Teacher (1)
One of the things that I attempt to be in my life is a choir teacher at a small, local high school. I enjoy vocal music, but I wasn’t a music major, nor have I made a particularly deep study of either vocal repertoire or technique. I have good fundamentals, experience in a college A Capella group, and the support of a small group of much more experienced musicians. I remember clearly...
