Bravo!

Bravo to the 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th grade choruses! Their hard work and enthusiasm really brought their music to life in last month’s concerts! I’m excited to introduce their new spring concert music!

Parmenter 3rd Gone Gone Gone

Parmenter 4th Wake Me Up

JFK 3rd Gone Gone Gone (Day after the Concert)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axuwt1H3r3A#t=28

JFK 4th Wake Me Up

JFK 5th Cups

What does Mrs. Mac look for when selecting music? First and foremost, the music must be appropriate in terms of subject matter but also appropriate developmentally for their voices. While I too love pop music, much of this music is not designed with young voices in mind. From there, I have five other qualifications.

1. Round and/or partner song – Great way to introduce students to singing in harmony!

2. Music from another country – Teaches students to appreciate and accept different kinds of music and, in turn, other people and traditions!

3. Pop song – Kids love them! And helps students personally relate to music and chorus. 

4. At least one fast and one slow song – Both tempos teach different skills needed in music and singing.

5. Opportunities for solos – Gives students an opportunity to shine and build confidence!

Picking music that the students will love but will also help them grow as people and musicians is extremely important to me!

4^th Grade: Recorders were sent home in January

along with a green letter introducing RECORDER KARATE. Please make sure recorders are consistently put in backpacks after practicing. Your support in encouraging your children to practice a minimum of 5 times a week, 10 minutes each time is crucial. Come June you will be amazed at what they can do!

5^th Grade (JFK): Friday, January 24^th students were introduced to RECORDER OLYMPICS. A yellow letter was sent home explaining this program. Recorder Olympics is very similar to Recorder Karate but incorporates more challenging music including music they will be performing in April with the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra. More information regarding this field trip will be sent home in March.