Imagine the magic of an environment where children with no previous musical training were able to play instruments and sing in four languages accompanied by a symphonic orchestra in just six days. This is the story of Music Camp International and Connie Fortunato's work throughout Ukraine and Romania. For two decades, educators, musicians, parents, and teachers have observed her children's choir rehearsals and Music Camps both in the United States and overseas, and asked, "How does she do that?" How is it possible to achieve so much in such a short time? And how is it that all children have such a good time?" In this book, Connie is sharing not only her heart, but her transformational "secrets" along with her research and applied methodologies to enable others to do the same. In this book you will discover that: -These concepts are transferable to other disciplines as well since they are linked into the way a child's brain develops. -Motivation means that children are inspired to set high goals and then work hard to achieve them. -An environment of mutual respect, inclusion, and celebration of others is vital for success. -A program must be tied together with imagination, creativity, high energy, and unlimited encouragement. For all who would energize their teaching, learn new concepts, and work tirelessly to make the world a better place for all-but especially children-this book is a "must!"
About the Author: Connie Fortunato has a passion to inspire children to dream big dreams and then work hard to achieve them. She believes that all children are talented and when involved in a dynamic and positive learning environment, can break through the limitations of a system or society that fails to "connect" with their "inner giftedness." Her work crosses all social, economic, and religious barriers, bringing children together from all extremes to form "one big family" that works together, respects one another, and achieves astounding results that transforms children, communities, and countries. Fortunato began working overseas in 1993, focusing her work with orphans in Romania. In 2000 she conducted a music camp for children in three villages-a "first" for a post-communist country. Since then her passion has led her to Ukraine and the major cities of Romania . Everywhere she goes she works with all children regardless of economic background or talent. She works with the Ministry of Education and Departments of Social Services to include children with various challenges, as well as foundations, foster homes, and orphanages. In May 2014, Fortunato was named "Honorary Ambassador of Peace for Ukraine" the only non-Ukrainian to ever receive this award. Her proclamation was signed by Petru Poroshenko who was elected President of Ukraine two weeks later. Fortunato is also the conductor of Celebration Choir - an adult community chorus for the Monterey Bay area. Celebration Choir performs Spirituals Night concerts in the late summer. Fortunato is a graduate of Wheaton College in Illinois, with majors in both music and literature. She has been involved in music for over forty years and published music education curriculum for preschool through adult. In 1985 her adult curriculum won the Gold Medallion award. She has conducted training seminars, served as guest conductor and clinician for choral festivals, been an adjunct professor at both the undergraduate and graduate level, and done consulting work throughout the United States.