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Hi, my name is Carla Graff, and I’ve been proudly teaching in the West Deptford School District since 2010. I serve as the Middle School Band Director and am deeply passionate about inspiring young musicians. I hold both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Education from Rowan University.
Certified in Orff Schulwerk and trained in Music Learning Theory, First Steps in Music, and Conversational Solfege, I use a “sound before sight” approach in my teaching. I believe all humans have an innate ability to make music, and I strive to create a supportive and joyful learning environment where that ability can flourish.
Outside of school, I love spending time with my husband, our two children, and our three lively Pomeranians. It’s an honor to make music every day with the amazing students of West Deptford!
Hope to see you in the band room!
Warmly,
🎶Mrs. Graff
Official Mission Statement and Philosophy
Official Mission Statement and Philosophy
As your Middle School Band Director, I am dedicated to nurturing the whole musician, one who can hear, feel, understand, appreciate and create music. Every band student should leave band class with an everlasting appreciation and love for music making.
In band we learn so much more than just notes and rhythms on a page. During the preparation for our concerts we talk about music as an expression of human emotion and feeling. We analyze the structures of music but also the meaning and purpose behind the composer's composition. I want my students to be able to evaluate and refine their own musical creations, articulate why they may or may not enjoy a piece of music, and appreciate the intent of the artist or composer.
Band students will discover the different roles they play in a musical ensemble. Music reinforces teamwork, demands self-discipline, and challenges creativity. Students will learn how to listen within an ensemble, and will learn to understand where their part fits into the group. Music helps develop determination and perseverance because it often takes more than two or three tries to learn a musical pattern, memorize a sequence or play in tune with others.
In band we will focus on we rather than me, a skill that develops empathy and compassion. We are a team and it takes teamwork for a musical ensemble to sound good and it takes true commitment to master the art and beauty of music.
When children learn to listen and work as a musical unit, aesthetic moments can be experienced and I try my best to help my students experience authentic musical moments. Band also gives your child a safe place to be themselves, express their unique and creative ideas and give them a place to meet friends in a fun and uplifting environment
My ultimate goal as band director is to foster my students aptitude for music, guide them through rich musical experiences and share with them a lifelong love and passion for music making.
Warmest Regards,
Mrs. Graff
West Deptford Middle School Band Director
cgraff@wdeptford.k12.nj.us
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