Teaching Philosophy

Music at the middle school level is crucial to a child's development and can enhance a student's education across all subjects. Because of the immense benefits of music it is important for class to be fun, and engaging, but also taken seriously. In the youngest grades it is important to begin with movement activities and introduce concepts of rhythm and pitch accuracy. Music games and sing/ play alongs are crucial. In the 3rd grade we begin to introduce playing the recorder. Concepts like beats per measure, singing in harmony, and expanding our vocabulary of the musical language are introduced while always continuing to sing and play. In grades 6-8 we expect a more advanced level of singing and playing, as well as a better understanding of music’s role in our culture and cultures around the world. We will explore all genres of music and ways to make music including composing our own using the Flat Composition App.