Music Program

Nelson believes that a fine arts education is essential for the development of the whole child. Our music program provides students with unique experiences that allow them to explore their passions, maximize their creativity and critical thinking skills, and learn valuable lessons about self-motivation, dedication and teamwork. 

Students in Grades 1-3 will receive one 30 minute music class per week that consists of singing, movement and playing simple instruments all designed to foster a life-long appreciation of music.

Students in 4th Grade will receive TWO 30-minute classes per week, one emphasizing choral music and one emphasizing instrumental music with the intent to help students discover their passion as they begin transitioning to 5th grade performing groups

Students in Grades 5-6 may choose to participate in choir, band or orchestra and receive two 45 minute classes per week. These outstanding ensembles offer students the chance to develop vocal and instrumental skills and perform at festivals and concerts throughout the school year. 

Stephanie Anaforian earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from CSU Fresno, and her Master of Music in Performance from the University of Washington. Mrs. Anaforian has enjoyed teaching a variety of music classes ranging from pre-school special education to middle and high school band and orchestra. She has been an elementary music specialist in the Clovis Unified School District since 2000. She loves the excitement of starting students on instruments, laying the foundation for their music education and watching them grow as they move on to middle and high school. In her free time, Mrs. Anaforian enjoys going to the beach, cooking, and spending time with her husband, Jason, her daughters Mia, Alex, Lauren and Rachel, and her 2 dogs, Reggie and Ellie. 

Cynthia Salomonson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from California State University, Fresno in the area of vocal performance with a choral conducting emphasis, as well as has received a certification in Kodaly Level 1. Mrs. Salomonson has taught children's choirs in public schools and private organizations throughout the central valley for over twenty-five years. She is currently the Artistic Director of the Bach Children's Choir and was the Associate Director and Administrator of the Central California Children's Choir. Mrs. Salomonson enjoys working with the elementary age and strives to instill a love of music in them. She has a passion to bring the arts, music and learning together in a fun and positive environment to enrich her students since they all deserve to have music in their lives.  Mrs. Salomonson's professional affiliations include the American Choral Directors Association, California Choral Directors Association, National Association for Music Education, American Orff-Schulwerk Association, and the Organization of Kodaly Educators. 

Mrs. Salomonson loves spending time with her friends and family and is actively involved in her church and music ministry! She is married to Brian and has three children.

ACCOMPANIST

Joanna Maragh