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Lorem Ipsum Dolor Spring 2016
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suggested I go for Suzuki training to open the program to students who were
not capable of reading music or students with visual impairments. It is a very
different teaching style; however, the results are the same as my other
students: allowing someone to experience the joy of music. It is very
exciting to see audience responses to children with visual impairments.
Q: How has Joseph's musical gift impacted you and your belief in the power
of music for students with visual impairments and their families?
Dr. Bauer: Joseph and our other students with visual impairments have
furthered my belief that ALL people are capable of making music. When
Joseph plays, he is motivated by the applause. He has gotten standing
ovations when he performs and it is so fun to whisper to him that the
audience is standing and clapping for him. He giggles and gets the biggest
smile on his face. Another student who is also blind performed for an area
competition after one year of study. She received a perfect score.
These stories are the ones I love because often times traditional
stereotypes in music are proven wrong. I love it when someone says you
can't do that and the students prove it wrong!
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