I am so glad to hear how you continued with music and were able to share your talents with others. From the sounds of it, they too had similar experiences. You truly have a gift and talent which I am still in awe of today. I have worked with many talented individuals in many cities and in many performances and can easily say you are one of two people who I was amazed by. Yours was exceedingly special because you chose to share it with kids which only now as an adult I can fully appreciate.

My time as your music student helped form my self confidence which I carry to this day. I often look back to those unique musical arrangements and performances we did fondly. I still remember the harmonies and sounds of songs like “Cantate Domino”, “Go tell it on the mountain”, “Stand by me”, and “Barbara Ann”. All were unique and fun. When I hear those songs now, (some more than others “Cantate Domino” doesn’t come up much… ) Those feelings and emotions rush back. I had wonderful times learning to sing and dance in your classes and am glad to be able to thank you as an adult for all your efforts. Teachers in my opinion are underpaid and underappreciated, especially the extraordinary ones like yourself. I remember you fighting hard for funding and going to bat for us in High School. I am sure it was a huge struggle at times but please know that you made a significant difference in one little boys life… that that I am truly grateful even today… and will be forever.

Thank you so much for your wonderful words. I have had numerous friends tell me that you posted a letter about me but it wasn’t until my daughter sent me a link to this website that I was able to read first hand your tribute. I knew immediately who “Chad” was and remember you vividly as a most cooperative student and a role model for others. Your ability to take risks, indeed, inspired me.

In response to the young man from Skokie, yes, it was my 3rd or 4th year of teaching in 1972. I am so pleased that you remember me for being kind and energetic.

Because of those experiences I had with my students, I went on to pursue a PhD in music education. I especially enjoyed teaching perspective teachers how to teach music and also loved learning how to do research. My dissertation was funded by a research fellowship from the American Association of University Women and I am published.

My students have always inspired me; I do believe my energy came from seeing the joy many of them derived from finding their singing voice, to learning how to sing in front of the class, to ultimately learning how to perform in front of hundreds of people. The arts have an amazing way of instilling confidence in young people. I am fortunate to have taught for some wonderful principals who respected me and appreciated what I tried to bring into the classroom.

Last but not least, thank you for making the effort to say these kind words. My father passed away last August at the age of 89. I am very glad he knew how much I loved him and what a wonderful father he was to me. We don’t say these things enough in this life. Instilling young people to believe in themselves is one of the most important things parents can do for their children. Likewise, for teachers.
I am glad I was able to be one of those educators. Thank you again for the reiteration!

Sincerely,

Laurie Taetle