How does precise marching with captivating music change the lives of a "down and out" community? Knees Lifted High and Toes Pointed is the story of a small Kansas town being reborn amidst the Great Depression. It all happened through the sounds of a high school band, under the tutelage of Jake Dalke, a young professor of music. The band grew from zero members in 1934 to one hundred talented high school musicians in 1941. What was the secret of Jake's approach that was so compelling for families and students? This book explores numerous aspects of the positive impact of his decency and leadership. The momentum builds, chapter after chapter: as the students honed their skills, the townsfolk became more excited and hopeful. It is an entertaining and captivating read.
How does precise marching with captivating music change the lives of a "down and out" community? Knees Lifted High and Toes Pointed is the story of a small Kansas town being reborn amidst the Great Depression. It all happened through the sounds of a high school band, under the tutelage of Jake Dalke, a young professor of music. The band grew from zero members in 1934 to one hundred talented high school musicians in 1941. What was the secret of Jake's approach that was so compelling for families and students? This book explores numerous aspects of the positive impact of his decency and leadership. The momentum builds, chapter after chapter: as the students honed their skills, the townsfolk became more excited and hopeful. It is an entertaining and captivating read.
David Dalke is a highly-regarded speaker, teacher, author, and
facilitator who utilizes the art of storytelling in his
presentations. Many of his stories on human behavior are drawn from
his own life experiences and lessons taught him by his
grandchildren. His latest book is Don't Miss It: Four Seasons of
Stories That Spark Enjoyment and Reflection.
"What a read, what a story! Dave writes in an invitational style. .
. . If you have never been a part of a marching band or lived in a
depressed farming community during the dirty thirties, read on! You
will join the band, have lived in St. John, Kansas, and have a new
adoptive dad, a man named Jake. This is a journey you do not want
to miss!"
--Bruce Blake, former President, Southwestern College
"Passion, decency, joy, delight, pleasure--David's writing took me
back to growing up in St. John! My mom and my aunt were students of
Jake Dalke . . . . I feel like Mr. Dalke's passion for teaching
music instilled a love of music education in his students which
would last for a lifetime. . . . Reading about the band warmed my
heart and brought a tear to my eye."
--Marcia Suiter, lifelong volunteer and band member's daughter
"In Knees Lifted High and Toes Pointed, David has brought to life
moments in a small town's history of a national event. His father,
Jacob Dalke, band director at St. John High School, had the vision
to promote and orchestrate this musical undertaking. All who read
this will marvel at the success his father had and realize that to
dream and then see that dream become a reality is only a thought
and hard work away."
--John Paulin, former Professor of Psychology, Southwestern College
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