It’s an eternal question: How do you make elementary school kids more excited about being at school than on vacation?
Many would say there is no answer, or that it’s a trick question, but thanks to Liz Collin, a teacher at Barton Elementary School in Minneapolis, an answer has finally been discovered: You bring COMPAS teaching artist Kashimana Ahua into your school to lead a songwriting residency.
But let’s start at the beginning of the story.
In a building filled with bright young minds and just one part-time music teacher for 500 students, time for creative exploration was limited. But one teacher did her best to nurture every child’s creativity.
That teacher was Liz Collin.
So when Ms. Collin heard that, thanks to generous COMPAS donors, Kashimana could lead a songwriting residency at the school, she jumped at the chance.
It Started with a Song
The residency began with an inspiring performance by Kashimana and her ensemble. Joy filled the room. Students sat wide-eyed as melodies soared around them. Harmonies wrapped through the air. Even the kindergartners leaned forward, completely mesmerized. This wasn’t just a performance. It was a call to create.
“With Kashimana’s teaching style, all the students felt like they could do it,” Ms. Collin shared. “Even the kindergartners and first graders embraced complex musical concepts. The kids loved the experience and the feeling of singing in harmony. It also made students feel more comfortable improvising with one another. It helped them see how each person’s voice and creativity can improve and change a song.”
No One Wanted to Miss It
Older students had an extra day to dive into songwriting and sound creation. With the help of Kashimana’s loop station, they built layered tracks, experimented with sound, and shaped songs from scratch. Pride showed in every movement. They weren’t just participating. They were owning the moment.
One fifth grader was so inspired that she asked her parents to cancel their vacation. “Can we not go?” she asked. “I don’t want to miss the COMPAS artist.” Her family adjusted their plans.
The final day arrived, and with it came music made by the students themselves. They rearranged loops, recorded harmonies, and created songs they couldn’t wait to share. The energy in the room was electric. No one wanted it to end.
It Still Hasn’t
Weeks later, you can still hear echoes of the experience in the hallways. Students create collaborative songs during recess. What they made with Kashimana didn’t disappear when the residency ended. It stayed.
And Ms. Collin sees it every day.
“The students are proud of what they created,” she said.
This is what happens when students are supported by a teacher who believes in them, a teaching artist who invites them in, and a community that offers support to make it all possible.
This is what joy looks like when it’s made audible.
Learn more about COMPAS, our roster of teaching artists, and how we can bring creativity to your environment here.
Read more stories about our work to put creativity in the hands of millions of Minnesotans here.
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