Aspen Elementary School

This month I would like to describe how your child is learning to listen in music class. Since music is an aural art form, informed listening is extremely important. Students need to learn the difference between passive hearing and active listening to music. Simply hearing a sound does not necessarily involve thought, comprehension, or understanding (consider the background music heard while shopping). In order for constructive listening to occur, distractions may need to be limited – sometimes I ask students to close their eyes while listening to help them focus their concentration.

Often I give students a specific thing to listen for such as particular melody, rhythmic pattern, single instrument or instrument combination. Sometimes a visual aid helps the students focus their attention. Other times I tell a story about the music to engage the students’ interest or imaginations. At still other times I ask them to identify the mood the composer is trying to evoke.

Many times I hear parents comment “my child can’t sing.” So this month I would like to explain the roles of musical aptitude, physical development, and training when learning to sing.

First of all, almost everyone can learn to sing. Although you may not be the next American Idol winner, you can learn to carry a tune. The only exceptions are individuals with damaged voices or those with severe hearing loss.

Physical development is the biggest Factor when learning to sing. A child’s singing develops in four stages: 1) Pre-Singer - uses speaking voice only; 2) Emerging Singer - can sing within a limited range (5 notes maximum); 3) Developing Singer - expanding range, more comfortable singing in a group; 4) Confident Singer – sings accurately and independently

As your child’s music teacher, my job is to guide him/her through these stages by providing experiences and training in vocal production techniques that encourage individual growth. The rate at which he/she progresses through the four stages depends on physical maturity, interest, and effort.

Welcome to Mrs. Manchester’s music blog. This year I will be sharing with you various thoughts on music, learning and Aspen School. This month I would like to talk about the role of talent in your child’s music education. While each child has a different level of ability and interest in music, it is my belief that every child deserves the opportunity to develop that ability to the fullest measure. As a music teacher it is my job to determine your child’s current knowledge and skill set and find ways to help him/her learn and grow as a musician. Just as every child has the ability to read or write or do math, so to does every child have the ability to understand and make music. I will use all my education and skills to ensure that your child develops this musical ability to the

This month I will describe the final requirements of the National Board Certification process. The fourth portfolio requirement is to document the applicant’s work as a learner, a partner with parents and community, and an educational leader and collaborator. The applicant must list up to eight accomplishments, explain why each is significant, and describe how it has impacted student learning. In addition she must reflect on these accomplishments and develop a plan for future professional development and leadership.

Although all four portfolios were sent in for evaluation at the end of March, the final results will not be announced until late November/ early December. Anyone who does not pass on their first attempt (as happens with approximately half of the applicants) can “bank” their passing scores. She then has two years to redo those items which did not receive passing scores.

This month I am going to take a break from my description of the national Board Certification process to provide some information about the upcoming Aspen Open House/Music Program. The date for this event is Thursday, May 8 and the music program is entitled “A World of Music”. This year the students have been learning musical concepts by studying songs from around the globe. They will be performing music from many countries including Australia, Japan, Germany, and Mexico. It would be wonderful if some of the students could wear an article of clothing that represents another country or culture. More detailed information will be provided as the date approaches. The students and I are busy preparing for this event and look forward to performing for you.