Graded school district wants fresh take on music classes
By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
In an attempt toward evolving Waterford Graded School District’s music curriculum and meeting the needs of all students, a series of tweaks are being implemented.
The changes, discussed at a Policy Curriculum Committee meeting July 20 and brushed over during a regular School Board session July 27, include fewer concerts and less emphasis on historic figures.
Instead, WGSD’s music staffers are planning to offer a more contemporary, technology-packed presentation aimed at resonating with students.
Several reasons have been given for moving away from a twice-annual concert structure, particularly in the spring when students might be involved in sports and other extra-curricular activities.
Parents also have reportedly approached teaching staff and expressed concerns students are not comfortable performing in a large public setting.
The upcoming changes are part of an ongoing evolution of the curriculum. Seven years ago, WGSD broke away from a longstanding policy that drew clear delineations between band and orchestra.
Students were permitted to take only one of the two offerings at their respective school. For those disinterested in either, a general music offering was substituted.
In an attempt toward giving students as wide an array of options as possible, the either-or scenario was dropped several years ago, meaning students have the option of taking band, choir and orchestra.
All of WGSD’s upper elementary and middle school-aged children have been taking a general music class, once considered an optional outlet for those who did not take up an instrument.
While singing is a component of general music, the class also is heavy on theory and includes instruction on modern musicians.
In terms of music theory, band teacher Riley Roberson has suggested offering instruction on modern musicians — many who likely are familiar to students — and de-emphasizing, but not necessarily eliminating, some of the oft-discussed composers, including Johann Bach and Wolfgang Mozart.
Technology also is playing an enhanced role in music instruction – a point that perhaps is best demonstrated by an electronic music course that was held this summer at WGSD. It reportedly has been well attended, as are some of the traditional offerings, including band classes.
“Summer band is a great way for students who want to keep playing over the summer to do so, but also have more fun,” said music teacher Jake Schroeder, who teaches during the regular school year at WGSD and Washington-Caldwell through a shared arrangement.
Schroeder added, “The kids get to hang out with their friends, come and practice and take lessons. It’s a lot of fun for them.”
JoAnn Nelson, who teaches music in grades 6, 7 and 8 during the regular school year within WGSD, was at the helm of this summer’s electronic music course, which wrapped last week.
“Every day had something different about it,” Nelson said of the popular offering. “The flute ensemble had treats on the last day, and we called it Root Beer Flutes.”
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