Interviews of five Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School Seniors Student Interviews Interviews of five Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School Seniors

Natisha Duncan What role does music play in your life? “I used to just do music because I’m not really good at anything else but it has become more than just a hobby, it’s an outlet/escape for when I’m stressed or down and fun when I’m happy!” What types of music do you listen to on a regular basis? “I listen to all types, classical, rock, some country, alt rock, R&B and more.”

Natisha Duncan Continued Have you formally studied music? Why? “If classes at Laurier count then yes? I have studied music because it has always fascinated me. When I was younger and looked at sheet music, I had no idea how to read it or what it was for. But due to studying music, I have a whole different understanding and it’s amazing.” What sort of teaching habits/style do you prefer to learn from? “I prefer to learn from teachers who show me how something is done and then let me try it out on my own. Especially when it comes to music, I enjoy having for example Ms. Kendell come and show me the fingerings for a part instead of just telling me.”

Bayden Hodgins What role does music play in your life? “Music plays a major role in my life. It is where I find myself having made so many new friends and doing something that unites everyone together.” What types of music do you listen to on a regular basis? “I listen to Classical and pop music on a regular basis.”

Bayden Hodgins Continued Have you formally studied music? Why? “I have formally studied music through public school and highschool because it was something I liked doing and the teachers were always very supportive and had a positive attitude. As well as being able to hang with friends.” What sort of teaching habits/style do you prefer to learn from? “The teaching style I learn best from is auditory. I learn best when hearing so when I hear someone play it is like I’m learning.”

Christien Parnall What role does music play in your life? “Release.” What types of music do you listen to on a regular basis? “Country.”

Christien Parnall Continued Have you formally studied music? Why? “Yes, because it was interesting.” What sort of teaching habits/style do you prefer to learn from? “Practical, through playing.”

Marco Montes What role does music play in your life? “Music is a huge role in my life I play everyday morning till night ya has given me a pathway to express my emotion and frustration!” What types of music do you listen to on a regular basis? “On a day to day basis I listen to metal and grunge on a day to day basis.”

Marco Montes Continued Have you formally studied music? Why? “I have studied music at Laurier music for 3 years so far and still mean to continue.” What sort of teaching habits/style do you prefer to learn from? “My favourite type of music teaching is when the conductor is easy on you as a person but as a musician tough! Because without that there would be no practice.”

Austen Van Gelderen What role does music play in your life? “For the most part music is an escape because it takes your mind off life and just gives you a break. It’s also, for me, and, depending on what I listen to, very “religious” in a way. I am Christian so it reminds me of spiritual truths like Christ dying on the cross for my sins, forgiveness, love, etc. Whether it’s worship or just listening that part of it is very important. But only of course when I listen to Christian music.” What types of music do you listen to on a day to day basis? “I usually listen to classical. Umm, Edgar Meyer for the win. Instrumental, bluegrass, and Christian.”

Austen Van Gelderen Continued Have you formally studied music? Why? “Formally? I study at Laurier but that’s it. I do because I love music and it’s a huge part of my life. It’s something that I’m good at so I enjoy doing it.” What sort of teaching habits/style do you prefer to learn from? “Idk I like the classroom setting but I ask a lot of questions and I like getting a lot of one-on-one insight on pieces that I’m working on and stuff. I like the classroom setting for theory and history etc. as well. I haven’t had a lot of one-on-one lessons though.”

Time for a little game I’m going to play snippets from each of the students favourite songs and it is your job to match the student to the song.

The End