My classroom is made up of young, hungry musicians that are determined to find positive ways to express themselves. I'm blessed that they decided to do it through music!
Most of my students are young, beginning musicians who have a sincere desire to be among the top bands in our city.
Although inexperienced, they work hard and learn fast! Most of them come from high poverty, low income communities so they also have a lot to deal with in their personal lives. Music helps them to deal with that in a good way.
My Project
I have students coming up to me all the time, wanting to play in the band. However, we don't receive a lot of funding to be able to buy the instruments they need. These 2 pairs of cymbals will enable me to let some cymbals players march with the band. They always come to the rehearsals in hopes of being able to play, they are learning the routines, even though we don't have enough cymbals to accommodate them. All of my percussion students are required to read music and other beginning band fundamentals, that includes the cymbal players as well.
It's widely known that schools with music programs see more consistent attendance than those without.
My students (and their parents!) will tell you that the only reason they get up in the morning and go to school is so that they can play their instrument! Also, with me stressing to them that in order to stay in the band, they have to keep their grades up and be model students, we are seeing better grades and reports of good behavior from the students.
More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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