Philosophy: 
     Music has played an important role in cultures across the world for thousands of years. It is hard to say how far back in history music dates. Scientist have found pottery and drawings of instruments and dancers which were created before written language was even developed. Plato and Aristotle both wrote about the tremendous effect music could have on one's soul and how music was an important part of any education. The fact that music has existed in almost every society since the beginning of history suggests that music is more than a mode of entertainment. It is integral part of the human spirit.

    In our society, music is all around us. Music is everywhere, from video games to restaurants and from school buses to stores. Businesses use music to keep customers in the stores longer or to keep them entertained while holding on the telephone.  Advertisers use music to get our attention and to ingrain the name of their product in our memory.   Movies and television programs are more dramatic or exciting because of the musical soundtracks.  It's often said that a "picture is worth a thousand words." However, a picture set to music is priceless.

     With music being such a large part of our society, an understanding and appreciation of music is a vital part of any education. The best way to understand music is to actively participate in making music.  What better way to appreciate a concert pianist than to practice diligently on the piano and then show off your hard work by playing for your peers? Music should be more than just a spectator sport.

    Music classes are centered around music literacy through hands-on activities.   Sixth grade students learn rhythm counting and note reading skills. Then they apply this knowledge to the piano, a common social instruments.  In our time together, beginning piano students learn the basics of the instrument and are able to play five to ten easy or moderate songs. Advanced pianists are taught how to add chords to a melody and create their own harmonies.    

Seventh grade students focus on guitar skills.   They start with simple melodies and then quickly move to three and six string chords.  They play a variety of music from the last 50 years and also learn to compose their own original music.  

     My hope is that students' experiences give them two things.  First, they leave with enough information that later in life that they could pick up a piece of music and sing it from sight or play it .  Second, I hope they leave with the motivation to try.