The time I have spent working at Caramoor has been quite an experience. I have learned about business, management and most importantly, music. Being a poor college student, I also have another job as a camp counselor for preschoolers. I’ve seen almost every kind of kid— from the girl that cries all day, to the boy who doesn’t speak English; they are all very intelligent and creative. In fact, one of them even knew that water plus light equals a rainbow. I am always surprised at how much they know at such a young age; however, I have yet to run into the cultured 3 year old who knows the difference between Mozart and Bach.
My parents are both classically trained musicians, so ever since I can remember I have always known important composers, musicians, and songs. Before I started working at Caramoor I became a fan of the Emerson String Quartet, which Time Magazine calls “America’s greatest quartet.” I was happy to find out that they are performing this season at Caramoor.
I wondered if any of my campers knew as much about the Emerson String Quartet as they did about Justin Beiber or Katy Perry. I put this to a test and asked one of my campers if she knew who the Emerson String Quartet was and she blankly starred at me and finally responded with “Yesterday, I got my hair cut.” Although I was disappointed, it proved my suspicions.
Parents teach their kids about science, art and reading – all of which they will usually forget in a week and have to re-learn 5 or 6 more times. However, they listen to a Hannah Montana song once and already know most of the words. This seems strange because Time Magazine never declared Hannah Montana “America’s greatest young artist.” It frustrates and concerns me that our obsession with pop culture has this effect on younger generations. I can’t see into the future but I am almost certain Handel’s music will be played forever; Amy Winehouse’s music: probably not so much.
Do you wish your kids knew the difference between Bach and Mozart? Take them to a Family Concert at Caramoor! For information, visit us at http://www.caramoor.org/festival/familyfun
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