Interviewing Mrs. Burkemper

I interview Mrs. Burkemper, she is the school choir director. I am in the choir and she is a very good teacher. Since I knew she had the vocal knowledge and background I decided she would be perfect to interview.

She has been studying music for her whole life, making her a credible source.

I interview Mrs. Burkemper through e-mail and she responded quickly. I asked many questions and her answers were just what I needed.

These are my questions and Mrs. Burkemper's answers.

1. Q: Does music help vigilance in school?

  

  A :That’s a tough question!  There are some students that find greater focus and concentration when they are able to listen to music, but there are many that will say it actually hinders their ability to concentrate. 

2. Q: Can music effect your level of concentration?

   

 A:I would refer to my answer above on that one.  Lots of students find listening to classical music can help with studying.  Some need silence, some can listen to anything at any volume. 

3. Q: Can certain types of music effect your moods?

   

 A:I believe all music effects your mood.  Music takes you places- to the past, to a specific moment, a specific feeling, etc. I believe that upbeat, uplifting music can create a better mood just like slow and sad music can make you a little melancholy.  Think about what a movie would feel like without music in it.  So many emotional moments would be diminished without the music behind it.  Similarly, if you walk through a store, there’s usually music and effects your mood and what or how much you purchase.  We also use music to vent our emotions.  How many times have you been angry or upset and gone into your room and blasted music just to release some steam?  Music can heal!

4. Q: Can music influence bad or good behavior?

   

 A:There are people that feel music, especially lyrics, can influence people to do bad things.  I don’t know if that’s the main reason people act negatively, but it can probably be a contributing factor.  Mostly, I see music as being uplifting.  In religion, it is used to praise or celebrate.  In cultures, it is used to promote unity or pride in one’s heritage or nation.  Socially, music is a background thing to create a certain type of environment. 

5. Q: How has music effected you?

   

A: Music IS my life and I chose it long ago.  Music created the direction I took in life for work and for fun.  I love  to play piano, to sing, and to listen to music.  I love to learn about music.  I love to share my gift and I love to bring the gift of music to others.  It’s a pretty amazing thing and it is in everyone’s lives.