My students in Lakewood, CO love to make music - especially popular music that they know and love. Together, we are in the early stages of developing a Modern Band program which focuses on student-centered, culturally relevant learning where students perform and create popular modern music. In grades 3-6, they play and sing a repertoire of their choice using guitars, keyboards, drums, and bass.
My smallest students, K-2, would love to play guitars like the older students but just aren't big enough to do so yet.
Ukuleles are the perfect size to help my youngest students express themselves through singing and playing while helping them learn skills they can transfer to guitars later on.
Many of my students experience the effects of poverty and trauma in their daily lives. I believe that making music can help my students to connect and bond with others while nourishing their souls and providing a healthy outlet for them to express themselves and deal with life.
My Project
I have witnessed the smiles on the faces of my older students when they played the guitar for the first time. I imagine the joy my youngest (K-2) students will feel when they are able to play and sing their favorite songs using ukuleles.
Ukuleles will allow my youngest students access to a culturally relevant world of songs and music-making that goes beyond traditional xylophones and percussion instruments.
While this project is primarily intended for my K-2 students, older students will enjoy playing the ukulele as well, giving your donation an even greater, whole-school impact. I can't wait to get them rocking on the ukulele!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Even and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
