Michael Hamblin

Michael Hamblin made his entrance on the world stage in San Francisco, Cali- fornia.   He began tap dancing as a youngster which eventually led to perform- ing in summer stock, community theatre, and a gig with Disney that came to an end when college became his paramount focus.   College introduced Mi- chael to multicultural dance and music, an avocation that has since taken him around the world as a performer and teacher of music and dance.    Michael has been the UMEA Elementary Music Teacher of the Year, a music consultant with the Utah State Office of Education, and National Consultant for Silver Bur- dett music publishers.  He has been on the dance faculties at BYU, Colorado State, Bowling Green State, and currently is “semi-retired” at Weber State Uni- versity.  He has written “teacher friendly” publications in both dance and music enthusiastically bringing the performing arts to Utah students and educators. Over a span of years Michael earned a BS in Education, BA and MA in modern dance and music education, an ABD in musical theatre, and a PhD in Perform- ing Arts.
Michael has a variety of programs he can bring to schools and groups, includ- ing the following:
Pioneer  Dances:  Few  people  know  that  the  pioneers  who  arrived  in  Utah danced their way across the prairie. Once here they continued to gather and dance with several rural Utah communities still enjoying old pioneer dances. The     dances     represent     a     unique     aspect     of     Utah     culture. Multicultural Dances: All around the world people dance, often for the same reasons but never in the same way. Exploring cultures of the world, many of them the homeland of immigrants who arrived in the United States and even- tually Utah, is a fascinating way to learn about other people and their customs. Moving to the Masters: Western composers have created an incredible reper- tory of classical music, some of which is energetic and dance-able. For young listeners sitting still and trying to understand complex music is a non-starter. Engaging in fun activities that inspire their listening is a guarantee of successful listening.
Music Songs and Games: Music education is an enriching opportunity to invite children to enjoy the world around them.  Songs exist as a celebration of life and to help develop an appreciation the many different ways people chose to enjoy their encounters.  Whether holidays and special occasions, seasons, or for social gatherings, there a song for every opportunity.