February Newsletter

Dear P.S. 58 Families,

We have had quite the busy month in K, 1, and 2 music classes this January! In Kindergarten, we’ve been having a wonderful time learning all about African and Brazilian drumming, and are preparing for two Afro/Brazilian drummers that will be performing for us next Friday, February 12^th. Thank you to all of the parents who have been lending us percussion instruments for use in class.

First graders were treated to a very special visit by Broadway star Judy Kuhn, the original singing voice of Pocahontas, on Friday, January 29^th. Judy shared with us some of the original sketches of the film, and also taught us some warm-ups that we can do to prepare our voices before we sing. We then surprised her with a performance of “Colors of the Wind,” and finally she sang with us while we recorded live in GarageBand! Thank you to everyone who assisted with this!

Finally, the extended day 2/3 chorus was invited to perform at a legislative breakfast on Friday, February 5^th. Over 30 of us made our way to the Crooked Tail Restaurant to perform for legislators and state senators. Thanks again to everyone who assisted as chaperones and to those who helped organize!

Here’s a look at what’s happening in the next couple of weeks!

Kindergarten: As stated above, Kindergartners are finishing up the Afro/Brazilian component of the drumming unit, which will culminate in a live performance by a drumming ensemble on Friday, February 12^th. When we return from the break, students will begin the Japanese Taiko component, during which time we will explore Japanese culture through song, dance, drumming and literature. Remember that updates and information about this program can be found here on the lower grade music blog.

First Grade: To compliment Black History Month, this month’s focus will be on famous African American musicians. We will be listening to and learning songs from various musical genres, including jazz and hip hop. The emphasis of this month will be on the value of lyrics in songs, something we began talking about when we started learning “Colors of the Wind.” Student will also brainstorm ideas for songs in groups, and begin a song-writing project.

Second Grade: Second grade students have also begun learning about famous African American musicians, and were introduced to this unit through the story “When Marian Sang,” the story of Metropolitan Opera star Marian Anderson, by author Pam Nuñoz Ryan and illustrator Brian Selznick. We used this story as an opportunity to begin a unit on opera, during which time we will learn about opera from every angle, including production.

Please remember to check www.ps58makesmusic.blogspot.com for up-to-date information regarding what’s happening in your child’s music classroom, and that you can always feel free to contact me with questions or concerns at ps58makesmusic@gmail.com.

-Mr. C