Influence.

There is a song that I always use for play-alongs in class. It’s one of my all-time favourites, “ have you ever seen the rain?” by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). When students have new drum concepts to test out I’ll jump on my piano, and play this wonderful tune along with them. 

CCR was first introduced to me by my dad, when I was I think seven or nine years old. He loved the band and naturally I grew to love them too. I would listen to CCR everywhere I went; while studying, showering, on the commute, having my meals etc. you can say that CCR means a lot to me and it is a big part of my life.

Now, being a father with two kids, I find myself in the same influential position that my dad was in. Well, not only to my kids, but to my students as well, especially the young ones. It’s really scary to notice how fast a child can pick up your mannerisms and how easily influenced he/ she can be. For instance, I did my usual jamming of “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” with a five-year-old student, and now this is the only song that he keeps wanting to play and sing! 

Kids pick up bad stuff equally fast; And I’m always on my toes to be watchful of what I say, and the music that I introduce to them. One thing that I try to be mindful of is when a young child requests to play a certain song, I would first check out the lyrics to ensure that they are not explicit. If not, then it’s a no go. 

I’m penning this down as a reminder to myself perhaps to anyone who is in some sort of position of influence, to never take this duty and privilege for granted. 

~Teacher Joel~

~Private Drum Teacher from Pasir Ris, Elias Road, Singapore~