Lydia Rahula urges teachers not to underestimate children

Veteran Estonian choir conductor and teacher Lydia Rahula says children should not be underestimated, describing them as both sensitive and strong. She has worked with children for more than 50 years, ERR reported.

Rahula appeared on ERR’s “OP” programme on International Music Day, October 1, after receiving an award from the Estonian Music Council for her long-standing work in music. She thanked the jury, her students, their parents and her colleagues, saying choir work was a collective effort.

She said working at school had helped keep her cheerful and energetic. The children give her energy, she said, and the relationship is mutual: she gives to them, and they give back.

Getting students to focus is one of the hardest parts of the job, Rahula said. Choir singing competes with children’s many other interests, including sport and mobile phones. She added that music comes alive when both the conductor and the children put their hearts into it.

Leading choirs for decades has also meant spending time away from her family. Rahula said her husband, Tõnis, had been a constant source of support, while her absences meant their children learned to be more independent.

Rahula said she wants her students to know they can turn to her. Recalling a boy who was crying at camp, she said she asked if he wanted a hug. He did, and held on tightly. “Children are sensitive, but at the same time they are strong. We must not underestimate them,” she said.