Only a few of the author's music students are dedicated to music as a possible career. Most squeeze their lessons in between soccer tournaments and play practices, homework and a social life. As their only musical outlet, the author feels a double responsibility. Her goal is to open children's minds and hearts to the world of music--for them to intellectually and spiritually glean the essence of a musical work. The best way to nurture this understanding is to excite the mind. Children must interact analytically, creatively, and sensorially with a given subject and need to explore their own ideas and responses to music. In this article, the author discusses three techniques she uses: (1) visual imagery; (2) physical movement; and (3) dramatic language. The goal of music education is to excite the imagination and open the mind. If music fascinates, music will then be an enriching presence throughout students' lives. (Contains 3 figures.)