What happens when the birds of creativity are uncaged?
My main passion is music. In the 1960s, the idea of being free exploded in the music industry. Let’s see what happened when my favourite group was given freedom in the studio!
The Beatles
At the beginning of their recording career, The Beatles were guided by their producer, George Martin. A school teacher type figure to them, he was in control of the production of their first album, “Please, Please Me”. Here’s a track:
Love Me Do. Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Love_Me_Do
Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EM7XTiGKr6M
Great, I am sure you will agree. By 1966, however, The Beatles were demanding more creative control. Being aware of their exceptional talent, George had given them more control in the studio; he had become more of a facilitator in the studio, helping enhancing their ideas and also providing support when required. However, George knew that to really express themselves, they needed to be given freedom in the studio. Check out what happened:
Penny Lane. Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penny_lane
The Beatles Strawberry Fields Forever
Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTXyoPVOUso
Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEyJ2EEvRBU
The change was remarkable; George Martin, the facilitator, was instrumental in their development.
Be Sir George Martin, Be the Facilitator
Paul and George. Retrieved from http://www.trutv.com/conspiracy/celebs/paul-is-dead/gallery.all.html
Who is brave enough to be the George Martin of the classroom? Be the facilitator and give gifted students freedom in the classroom and witness what exceptional talent can create:)
Please post any other examples from other disciplines to demonstrate what happens when exceptionally talented animals are give the freedom to express themselves.
Next up in the menu is “Expressions of what Freedom in the Classroom Means to You”. A venue for you to express in a way that is meaningful to you your thoughts about freedom in the classroom.
Professional Goals: Provide opportunities for students to freely express themselves (Within reason!).
Goal for Students: To feel free to express themselves creatively.
Question: What would have happened if George Martin had not given The Beatles freedom in the studio? Is what you imagine similar to what would happen in the classroom if you restricted your gifted students?