Music Teaches More Than Notes To Our Middle Schoolers
by Terri Woods Garlick
Last night, my family had the pleasure of attending Scotts Ridge Middle School’s Eighth Annual Select Music Ensembles Concert at the Ridgefield High School Auditorium. It was a remarkable evening worthy of the big stage at the Ridgefield High School, but more importantly, for many Ridgefield boys and girls, ages 11-14, it was a personal accomplishment – the culmination of a year of hard work.
Although part of the Middle School, each group is selected by an audition process and then is required to meet weekly outside of school hours – early mornings or after the last bell. Both Scotts Ridge and East Ridge Middle School students are involved in the ensembles. No grades are given, but time must be dedicated to practicing these additional musical pieces along with their regular studies and activities outside of school. However, the rewards for these students last long after the final song is sung or played. Throughout the year, participants learn discipline, dedication, and patience along with an enriched understanding and appreciation of musical styles and elements – qualities that will last a lifetime.
Five different select music ensembles performed under the direction of the teachers in the Scotts Ridge Music Department. Andrew Clavi leads the Jazz Band and Wind Ensemble, Michael La Barre leads the Chamber Singers, and Michael McNamara leads the Symphonic Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra. The success of these groups is due to their tireless dedication and love of teaching and participating in the arts. Without them, the select ensembles would not exist.
In the future, if you have the opportunity to hear one of these select groups perform, don’t miss it – you’ll go home with a smile – just like all of last night’s young performers.
Great article, Terri! I’ve heard only wonderful things about the evening!