On June 25th and 26th, Willis Wonderland hosted the inaugural “Musical Wonders” training session at the USC campus in Los Angeles, marking an exciting milestone for our program. Seventeen enthusiastic teachers from the LA area joined us for two days of immersive songwriting and music technology training.
An Inspiring Start
The training was led by our Music Education Program Director, Stephen Cox, and Willis Wonderland Advisor, David Wish. Their expertise and passion set the tone for a dynamic and engaging workshop. Participants were introduced to hands-on songwriting exercises designed to spark creativity and enhance their teaching methods. The energy in the room was palpable as teachers explored new ways to incorporate music into their classrooms.
Embracing Technology
Understanding the vital role of technology in modern music education, we equipped each teacher with a comprehensive technology package. This included an iPad Pro, a condenser mic, an audio interface, a MIDI keyboard, and essential songwriting software. The technology training sessions were met with enthusiasm, as teachers discovered how these tools could transform their teaching practices and enhance student engagement.
Collaborative Learning
Throughout the two days, teachers collaborated, sharing ideas and feedback that enriched the training experience. The hands-on exercises allowed them to apply their new skills in real-time, fostering a supportive and creative learning environment. This collaborative spirit not only strengthened their understanding of the “Musical Wonders” curriculum but also built a sense of community among educators.
Launching the Curriculum
The highlight of the training was the official launch of our “Musical Wonders” curriculum. Teachers provided valuable feedback, which will help us refine and expand the program. Their excitement and positive responses reaffirmed the potential of “Musical Wonders” to make a significant impact in music education.
The success of this first training session is just the beginning. We are thrilled to see how the “Musical Wonders” curriculum will be implemented in classrooms across the LA area and beyond. The enthusiasm and dedication of these teachers inspire us to continue developing innovative resources that support music education.
Thank you to all the participants for their hard work and passion. Your commitment to your students and to the art of teaching is truly inspiring. We look forward to continuing this journey together, bringing the wonders of music to students everywhere.
Stay tuned for more updates and future training sessions from Willis Wonderland, where creativity and technology unite to transform music education.
