Posted by: thepinetree on 08/09/2010 07:08 PM
Updated by: thepinetree on 08/10/2010 09:28 PM
Expires: 01/01/2015 12:00 AM
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Avery Middle School Summer Music Camp Brings the Sound of Music to Kids Hearts ~ by, Charity Maness
Last year the children of Avery Middle School were asked to write a letter to the school board detailing what life would be like without music. While some were profound and eloquent, the basic message was, “life would be pretty boring” said Booster President and mom Vicki Johnson. While most school districts across the state and the country are seeing huge cuts to the arts budget Vicki says that strong community, teacher and parent collaboration and involvement keep their music, art, and sports programs up and running. “We all work together for the benefit of the students.” Music instructor Patty Struvie reiterates those same thoughts, commending the community, teachers, and parents for their support and collaboration....
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Within the Vallecito School District music is introduced in fourth grade with the introduction of the recorder. The children learn finger positioning, how to read notes, timing, and play as a group. This is their first introduction to musical instruments through the school. By fifth grade children can join the band. By sixth grade they can be involved in either the concert or jazz band, however, if they play multiple instruments, as many children do, they can participate in both bands.
This week’s summer music program is a chance for those familiar with their instruments to get a little practice in before the school year starts, but more importantly, to mentor those children coming in with no working knowledge of band instruments. A child comes in with a desire to learn the sax, or the tuba, or a myriad of other instruments and the teacher, overseeing all, assigns the child to a mentor who then instructs the ‘would be’ musician the basics of the instrument they have chosen. 7th grader Brennon helped 5th grader Grace learn not only how to blow into a tuba, but how to place her fingers, how to breath, and proper posture. Brennon is “so amazingly good” gushed music teacher Patty. In another room Quintessa, instructs future saxophone players, patiently teaching them how to assemble the mouthpiece, place the fingers correctly and blow with little or no spit.
Youth mentors for this summer program ranged from 5th graders to 8th graders, all giving of their time and talent to help fellow students enjoy the wonder and fellowship that music has to offer. New students had the opportunity to try out saxophones, guitars, flutes, clarinets, drums, bells, trombones, tubas, French horn and trumpets. Careful instruction is given to the proper care, cleaning and organizing of the instruments.
Donations of instruments are always welcomed for the Avery Middle School music program. Children rent the instrument for $50 per school year, but scholarships are offered for children that cannot afford the rental fee. “No student is denied.” Said Vicki.
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