By Sue Loughlin
TERRE HAUTE — One student performer blew kisses to the audience, while another student on the Cecilian Auditorium stage waved proudly to friends and family.
The two were among 70 performers Monday in the Very Special Arts Spring Musical Concert at St. Mary-of-the-Woods College.
The special needs students from Terre Haute North, Terre Haute South and West Vigo high schools have been working this past year with Bethann Smith, a Woods music therapy intern.
For some students, it was their first time on stage, and they joyfully threw themselves into the rhythm of the music or the beat of a drum.
“It was cool. It definitely makes me happy,” said Terre Haute North Vigo student Jerry Wallace. “I like playing drums a lot.”
West Vigo student Brittany Stuck blew kisses to the crowd.
For the past school year, Smith worked with the students in groups, and she also had individual sessions with each student once a week. She has gone to each high school every day.
Monday’s concert provided the students with an opportunity to demonstrate, through music, the goals they have worked on this year in music therapy.
As the program began, South Vigo students moved in a circle on stage while waving colorful scarves as Smith played the song “Simple Gifts” on a flute. Some of the students walked, while others were assisted in wheelchairs.
Later, a South student played the melody to “You Are My Sunshine” on a keyboard.
Next, an enthusiastic group of West Vigo students used instruments called shakers while Smith played a guitar. They took turns improvising as soloists.
Finally, North students used resonator and handbells to accompany the recorded song “Shenandoah.” Later, various soloists took turns beating a drum as part of an Earth celebration drumming circle.
The performance brought not only applause, but in some cases tears of joy and pride from family members.
Smith said she felt like a “proud mother.” At the beginning of the year, many of the students were unsure of themselves and unsure about the program.
“It’s exciting to watch them bloom,” said Smith, 45. Monday’s program “went wonderfully.”
She used music to help students reach goals outlined in their individual education plans. In some cases, students improved their attention spans and communication skills.
Others gained confidence.
While many wore T-shirts and casual clothes, North student Eric Burns wore a suit for the performance. “I’m trying to do my job and make people happy,” he said. “It was pretty fun.”
Cindy DeGrothy, a North teaching assistant, said students looked forward to Smith’s daily visits. “They learn so much more than just playing music,” she said.
She saw them improve in such skills as taking turns, listening and cooperating, she said.
While some students were reluctant to participate at first, when they saw their classmates having a good time, they eventually wanted to be part of it, DeGrothy said.
Without this type of program, some of the students might never have an opportunity to get on stage, said James Boland, chairman of North’s special education program.
“It really has changed some kids’ attitudes,” Boland said. “They feel a sense of accomplishment.”
Sue Loughlin can be reached at (812) 231-4235 or sue.loughlin@tribstar.com.
