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Bellows Falls Middle
School Music Dept.
School St.
Bellows Falls, VT 05101
August 31, 2010
Dear Parents and Guardians:
Why study music? The study of music develops creativity, enhances cooperative learning, instills disciplined work habits, improves test scores, contributes to self-esteem, and is a lifelong enjoyable activity. Violin virtuoso Mark O’Connor says, “Music brings people together in communities and gives children a way to express themselves.”
Students will be building on their prior knowledge; singing, playing instruments, composing music, listening to music, reading music, and improvising music. They will explore the music of other cultures; and learn how music relates to their history, beginning with the music of today and the effect technology has had on the way we listen to and perform music.
A big part of the music curriculum will be music technology. Using an online music notation program called Noteflight, students will be able to compose music using a computer. As part of the reflection and critique element, students will then have the opportunity to share their music compositions with others and to have their music composition evaluated by a composer mentor on a password protected website, vtmidi.org.
Please have your child bring the following materials to music class: some loose-leaf white lined notebook paper and a pencil. A folder will be provided to use for in class work.
Your child will receive a grade for music class. Grades are based on participation in class, completion of class work (including keeping class folder up-to-date and organized), and demonstrating understanding of musical concepts. Assessments will include: teacher observation, writing assignments, quizzes and/or tests, self and peer evaluations, and class performances and/or projects.
I hope your child will enjoy music and have fun. Please don’t hesitate to call or e-mail me with any questions and/or concerns.
Sincerely,
Joan LaClair
Music Teacher
463-4366, ext. 315
“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” – Victor Hugo
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