Photo courtesy: North Thurston Public Schools River Ridge High School conductor leading their band concert. “As students grow through their time here, they become invested in the success of their peers, even when choir is the only thing they think they have in common.” Whether it’s playing an instrument or learning to sing, the music educators at NTPS live to see their students become confident artists, performers and community members. “We have unique students with many different backgrounds and interests, and they come together to do incredible things and support one another,” Ms. Stephanie Bivins, a choir teacher at Aspire Performing Arts Academy (grades 6-8), characterizes such experiences this way, “There is something really special about being able to create something beautiful with other people, to learn about others through their music, and to breathe life into the music on the page.” The sense of camaraderie that’s fostered through school music programs is undeniable. Meaning and enrichment also come from the experience of learning to make music in a group setting. “It was super special for kids to be able to hear from former teachers and reconnect with them through these concerts,” Ms. When the performance was over, audience members were invited to unmute themselves and let the kids know how extraordinary their learning was, especially given the challenges of the pandemic. “It is especially important for young students to get that ‘post-concert lobby experience’ where they hear that they did well from lots of people who are not their director or their parents,” Ms. A young Chambers Prairie Elementary student plays on a xylophone. After collaborating with instructors in nearby districts, she and fellow Chambers Prairie staff organized a “Live from Your Living Room” concert over Zoom. Linda Pyle, a music teacher at Chambers Prairie Elementary, explains how the COVID-19 pandemic made in-person concerts impossible. The NAfME characterizes music as a “powerful esthetic force” that “dignifies the realm of feeling by merging intellect and emotion in the search of a humane way of life.” Music In Our Schools Month is an annual reminder that music serves as an “essential part of the learning process,” and NTPS is proud to honor that tradition. Music In Our Schools Month began as a national effort to grow awareness around the positive role music can play in the lives of young people. “They have continued to find ways to keep the music alive and students engaged throughout the pandemic.” “The teachers we have are so passionate about music,” Mr. At every level of instruction, NTPS students have access to inclusive, enriching lessons in music led by beloved and talented instructors. “Here at NTPS I like to think we celebrate music every day,” says Kevin Reimer, the district’s director of activities, arts, and athletics. North Thurston Public Schools has 26 band, orchestra, and choir teachers, 13 elementary music teachers, and more than 2,500 music students, and they are all ready to celebrate! River Ridge High School marching band performing at a Football game. Submitted by Alison Bailey for North Thurston Public Schoolsįor more than 30 years, the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) has recognized March as Music In Our Schools Month.
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