From: Kbshepler at aol.com <Kbshepler>
Date: Tue, 20 Dec 2005 01:13:17 EST

  In a message dated 12/16/2005 10:51:07 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, JMason at Scholastic.com writes:

John Langstaff was the genius behind "The Revels" - exuberant, authentic revivals of holiday musical celebrations and traditions going back centuries. Just the other day I was listening to my favorite CD of Christmas Revels which I always play at this time of year. I shall play it again and honor him.

John Mason


John's tribute to Langstaff reminded me I wanted to say a fond "farewell" here, too.
  John Langstaff was a magical teacher. He somehow brought out the best music from his students - youth or adult. I attended several workshops he taught and
 enjoyed each one so much. He was especially eager to keep the folk music of our history alive for young people. He made a set of videos at my daughter's school with his special friend here in Oakland, Carol Smith. (Carol also helped make Revels in our area special by providing the children's direction. We lost Carol unexpectedly two years ago.) These instruction videos showed his genius at teaching choral music in the classroom.
  What a good idea to play Christmas Revels music and think of John Langstaff. I'll do just that and add my loving and grateful thoughts to his friend, Carol, as well. Here's a toast of Christmas cheer to two great teachers - gone from this world but whose gifts live on.
  Kathy Shepler _KBSHEPLER at aol.com_ (mailto:KBSHEPLER at aol.com) Librarian Aurora School Oakland, CA
Received on Tue 20 Dec 2005 12:13:17 AM CST