The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Last week my neighbors daughter asked me to bring my phonograph to her 4th grade class. I played the "Star Spangled Banner", which the kids sang along to, and "Uncle Josh in a Roller Skating Rink". I was a bit mortified when it dawned on me that Uncle Josh was probably a drunk(?), but the kids & their teacher didn't seem to make that connection. They thought his laughing was the funniest part. They asked a lot of great questions and seemed to be really interested.

I also bought a batch of ruined cylinders and brought a couple along so the kids could have something to touch. The paper towels are there because the motor was thunking so I did a quick flush and re-grease. It needs a new spring eventually I think. Yesterday I was a bit upset after a deal with a forum member went unexpectedly sour, but then she brought over this thank you book and it brightened my day right back up. Every student wrote a page, some of which are quite funny.

I did something similar. When my son was in grade school, I would bring my Victor IV to play records for the class. The kids and the teachers were very much interested. You had to cram a lot of material in 45 minutes. I brought various records, played them for 30 min., had a question and answer period, and then the finale. I would have the kids line up, and I would open up the case so the kids can see the motor running. They were more fascinated watching the motor, than listening to the records!!
Harvey Kravitz

Steven

Great of you to take the time to share with the kids. Ten years old is a perfect age they will likely remember you and your Edison forever.

History means so much more when you can touch it and in the case of Phonographs, listen to it.

Bruce

Good job!
James.

Thanks!

I think it was good to start with a song that 'everyone' knows. I'm looking forward to doing it again if/when I can.

It is fun to do classroom visits. While living in Texas, I brought several small phonographs to school.
Hopefully this opportunity will come again now that I am living in Indiana.