"To see the spark of recognition in a child's eye, that moment when all the little bells go off and true, unadulterated interest fills his/her mind, is perhaps one of the greatest joys I have come to know." - Rich

Curriculum Workshops: 

Working as an artist educator with the Royal Conservatory of Music in a program called Learning Through The Arts, Rich has worked extensively in schools in Niagara showing teachers how to use music to teach elements of the curriculum.

Thus Rich is offering curriculum-based workshops on any area of the curriculum in which teachers feel they might need a boost.  These are hour long sessions for either half a day or a whole day.

Song Writing and Recording - CD/without CD

Imagine creating your own school CD! 

In fun-packed hour-long sessions (two classes in the morning, two in the afternoon), Rich will help your classes create the lyrics and melodies to their very own songs.  Select a theme for your CD or have Rich help you choose one (i.e. the environment/Christmas/school anniversary/school/multiculturalism/memories/hope or spirit/dreams), and Rich will give the teachers instructions on how to prepare for his visit in order to create the very best songs possible.

Rich will set up a recording studio in a quiet room in your school where each class will be sent to compose and record their song.

A fun idea is to have your students come up with a drawing for the CD cover! 

In just a few weeks you will have your very own school CD.  You can then purchase copies from Rich and sell them - perhaps at a performance!

**These song writing workshops can also be done without a CD.  Instead, they can simply be recorded onto a cassette.

The degree to which students are capable of expressing their thoughts and feelings through the medium of music is how Rich measures the success of Compose It!.

School Song in a Day 

Another great idea is to have Rich come to your school, set up in a room, and have every class visit him over the course of a day, each class getting to compose a section of a NEW SCHOOL SONG.

At the end of the day, Rich has the entire school assemble in the gym to sing the song together, each class singing their respective parts.

It's a truly wondrous feeling of coming together and belonging, utilizing teamwork as well as a creative alliance.  This can also be done with a selection of grades rather than the whole school.

What Do Educators Have to Say About Compose It! and Rich?

"Rich has a wonderful manner when working with the children. He is able to motivate them quickly to work together to create the lyrics based on their ideas for their songs. He enables them to perform to the best of their ability, without pressure or strain, providing opportunities for the children to shine! I can think of very few ventures that have been so positively and enthusiastically embraced by everyone involved. The enthusiasm and positive feedback from the staff, students and parents has been outstanding!" - Dale Robinson, Principal, Vineland Public School

"The staff welcome Rich’s involvement in the classroom and applaud the work he does with the children. They too are impressed at how he makes learning fun with music, and how he captivates the attention of the children while achieving the desired results of learning.  I highly recommend Rich for his capacity as an artist and composer." - John Boyer, Principal, Our Lady of Victory Schools, Fort Erie

"The CD was the best CD I ever heard in my life. It was so good I wish my whole family could have one." – student at Sheridan Park School

"The children had a wonderful time with Rich. He is very talented and patient with the children. He worked in a professional manner and listened carefully to each child. The first song Rich and the children produced was used on our New Year 2000 Promotional Tape for The Boys and Girls Club of Niagara. This CD is now in the Niagara Falls Millennium Clock Time Capsule. I have no hesitation in recommending Rich Roach, owner of Compose It! to work with any organisation. Rich has made a tremendous contribution to our club. Thank you, Rich!" – Lori-Lyn Lightfoot, Fund Development Manager, The Boys & Girls Club of Niagara Falls

"Rich, you amaze me! You are excellent with the students and staff. The results are fabulous. What a wonderful way to learn about composing and the use of technology. Thank you for the opportunity." - Linda Wiens, Teacher & Primary Song Leader, Meadowvale School

"The children thoroughly enjoyed their session and learned many new skills related to the music curriculum. Mr. Roach was a delight to watch as he worked with the children. He helped make our Jubilee project a great success. I highly recommend Compose It! Your students, staff and community will benefit greatly." – Mrs. E. Doyle, Principal, St. Vincent de Paul School