Many times people ask me what makes music so special. I often
say that it makes me happy; I turn to it when I am sad. If I am angry, it can calm me. In my classroom, I try to instill a
love and appreciation that kids can take with them wherever they go--love and appreciation not only for the music, but for
each other. We all have a story to tell, and we can tell that story through dance, song...of course both which involve MUSIC!!!
Prekindergarten, kindergarten, as well as first
grade, will concentrate mainly on discovering ways to use the voice, as well as steady beat and differences in high
and low.
Second and third grade will further explore steady
beat and melody, as well as using Orff instruments and studying different genres of music.
Fourth and fifth grade will continue studies in vocal technique, including breath control
and expression; they will also begin applying and using musical terminology.
Sixth grade has a fall concert (this is a formal venue), where they will present music from a variety of genres
and musical styles. They also host a rock 'n' roll revue in the spring (a concert we now share with the 6th grade
band), and have the opportunity to participate in an honor choir at NIACC, sponsored by the Iowa Choral Director's Association.
There's still more!! Fifth and sixth grade
students have the opportunity to audition for OPUS, an honor choir which performs around the time of the All-State Music Festival
. We have always been represented well here!!
We also belong to a keyboard consortium. Students will spend five
weeks studying concepts best taught at a keyboard setting. THEY LOVE IT!!!
