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By Geneva Hamilton

I’ve lived in the Edmonton area since I was three years old – pretty much all my life. After high school, I studied youth and child care at MacEwan, got active in music, married, and soon after had my first child, a daughter named Skye. Phew, how’s that for a fast forward!

Anyway, when Skye was six weeks old, I went to the weekly baby talk class at the health centre. Each week they had a different topic or guest. That particular week Jodi from Music Together did a demo class of a unique music program that allowed children and their parents to explore music. I thought, “Wow, I’d love to do something like that.”

Eight months later I was performing at a private party (I’m a singer/songwriter) and I ran into Jodi. I was amazed that she remembered both Skye and me. One thing led to another and by that fall I was apprenticing with the Music Together program. In the spring I took the training (I think the session in Edmonton was the first time it was offered in Canada), and started teaching for Music Together in April 2004.

This wonderful program has allowed me to combine my three passions – my love of children, my love of music, and my deep love of family – and to find a rich and rewarding career – all without having to leave my home town!

Since 2004 I’ve taught Music Together in several locations across Edmonton. Over the years I’ve witnessed so many special moments between children and their parents/caregivers and I’ve made so many wonderful friends. I’ve seen a warm community created through music. And all of this has happened right here in Edmonton.

It’s fitting that the community that nourished and sustained me as a child has also enabled me to have my dream career. I feel so privileged that I can give back to the community through children and music.