"Why I Want to Play the Harp"

Here's an idea for a beginning homework assignment. Have the student draw a picture or write why he or she wants to play the harp (or any other instrument that you're teaching). There are several ways you can adapt this, depending on student age and interest. Student can:

• paint, draw, or use a different art medium
• make a collage
• make a sculpture
• make a mixed-media piece
• write a song
• write a poem
• write an essay

You could even do several of these options at different times. How would you use it? Have you done anything like this -- either as a teacher or a student?

-Barbara