MORRIS MIDDLE, HOUSTON TX
Study the origins and development of Mexican and Spanish vocal literature, pedagogy, and performance by auditing some of the most prestigious music programs in Spain (including The Autonomous University of Barcelona and the Berklee College of Music – Valencia Campus) to inspire Hispanic students to create and participate in their cultural repertoire.
One experience I had while working with Choir Director Betzabe Juarez in Coyoacan, Mexico, was learning how to pronounce Mayan texts to teach my students ancient Indigenous folk songs. This was a specialized skill that I would have never encountered in my Bachelor's or Master's program. Ms. Juarez opened my musical repertoire to choral pieces I would have never attempted. She also taught me how to accompany them with percussion instruments native to modern-day Mexico.
I learned that I am adaptable, curious, and teaching at a high level for the age group I specialize in. It was very affirming to have choral directors in Mexico and Spain be so impressed with my musical knowledge and recorded performances of my students. I learned collaboration and relationships are the keys to an elevated music education. With the relationships that I made, I now have access to a greater library of repertoire and vocal techniques.
The fellowship I crafted included auditing summer music classes from the University of Berklee Valencia Campus. Unexpectedly, I was dropped from the program due to pushback from local tourism and the director's decision to deny my access. This forced me to do a private study with local choir directors, which proved to be a much more focused learning experience. I gained private instruction, coaching, and access to digital music libraries. All things happen for a reason, and I am grateful.
I plan to teach an entire Indigenous and Spanish-repertoire unit during Hispanic Heritage Month that showcases the pieces I was introduced to over my summer fellowship. I will teach my students the historical backgrounds of the selection, the cultural relevance, modern influence, and performance practices of each country. My students will learn to sing the pieces and perform them for our Curriculum Night for their parents, teachers, and community leaders connecting our Hispanic population.
I can leverage my fellowship to provide high-quality performances for our school and community during Hispanic Heritage Month and throughout the entire school year. My students will be able to connect with their parent's native language and musical genres. They will receive a hands-on learning experience through song and dance in the choir room. Expanding their choral repertoire and including Indigenous music and Mexican percussion instruments will elevate the range of their music education.
My fellowship will expand to my vertical alignment department (intermediate and high school choir directors) as well as a local program called the Segundo Barrio Children's Chorus. I will use my new skill sets to teach not only my students but also those in our community choirs to appreciate and perform Spanish language folk songs. I am sure my colleagues will enjoy the enrichment of our students throughout our Fall and Winter concerts which will feature pieces I learned along my journey.
