Best Music Instruction:
Oberlin Choristers
Oberlin Choristers is committed to teaching kids to sing by using healthy vocal technique and developmentally appropriate choral literature. It teaches music literacy, history and theory while giving children confidence and moments of joy. Jennifer Call, artistic director, shares three types of songs children should learn.
American folk songs: These have simple structure and are easy to sing. They teach appropriate vocal range and kids can relate to the story.
Song: How Can I Keep From Singing
Thro’ all the tumult and the strife
I hear the music ringing;
It finds an echo in my soul—
How can I keep from singing?
Songs in different languages: These open the world through song and teach understanding and tolerance. The songs also teach vocal resonance and vowel shaping.
Song: Hine ma Tov
Hebrew translation: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.
Songs in varying styles: These teach historical, ethnic and emotional expression. Baroque versus classical teaches different singing techniques.
Song: Mozart’s Alleluia from Exultate Jubilate (K.165, 1773)
The only word in this piece is “alleluia” in varying resonance and tone quality.
39 S. Main St. #242, Oberlin, 440-444-4079, ochoristers.org
Preschool:
Kiddie Kollege
There is more to repeat winner Kiddie Kollege than blocks and letters. Owner and Director JoAnne Moell’s 37-year dedication to early childhood educational and emotional development prompts former students to enroll their children in Kiddie Kollege’s preschool and daycare programs. Individualized student attention and a balance of activities prepare students for kindergarten.5526 Detroit Road, Sheffield, 440-934-0727/440-934-5880, kiddiekollegeohio.com.
Gymnastics:
Ten Point O Gymnastics
Here, lessons in setting goals, feeling a sense of accomplishment and dealing with frustration are as important to learn as tumbling, balance beam, floor exercises, bars and vault. “It’s not all about competition and the skills,” says manager Allison Fenik.38818 Taylor Parkway, North Ridgeville, 440-353-0101, ten-point-o.com
Learning Center:
LCCC Children’s Learning Center
“We make sure our activities promote learning,” says Michele Henes, associate professor and coordinator at LCCC Children’s Learning Center. Students from 18 months to 12 years learn the economic benefits of growing their own vegetables and are exposed to active board technology provided by the college. 1005 Abbe Road, Elyria, 1-800-995-5222, lorainccc.edu/community+services/childrens+learning+center
Dance:
Ohio Dance Theatre
Ohio Dance Theatre, Lorain County’s only professional ballet-based contemporary dance company, is celebrating its 20th year. Performing classics such as “The Nutcracker,” “Dracula” and “Sleeping Beauty” this season, the theatre also provides classes for recreational students and pre-professional young dancers.39 S. Main St. #241, Oberlin, 440-774-6077, ohiodancetheatre.org
