Monday, April 12, 2010

April Newsletter

Dear P.S. 58 Families,

I hope everyone had a wonderful and restful break! Now through the end of the year, Kindergarten, First, and Second grade students will be preparing for a number of performances, the most upcoming being Earth Day which will take place on Thursday, April 22nd at 3:00pm in the school yard.
Please note that all K, 1, and 2 students, as well as any 3-5 students that are in my extended day choirs, will be invited to participate in an “open-sing” that will begin the Earth Day celebration. Students have been preparing “Colors of the Wind” and Seasons of Love.” If you and your child would like to rehearse these songs at home, song lyrics and embedded YouTube videos can be found here on the blog.

Here’s a look at what’s happening throughout the month of April.

Kindergarten: On April 12th, Kindergarten students will be treated to a Bulgarian drumming and dancing performance. In addition to preparing for Earth Day, students will be learning a Bulgarian children’s song and a traditional Bulgarian dance. Remember that updates and information about this program can be found here on the blog.

First Grade: In addition to preparing for the Earth Day celebration, students will be learning about the musical “Nate the Great” through song study in preparation for their visit to see the musical in May.

Second Grade: In addition to preparing for the Earth Day celebration, students are being introduced to the concept of two-part singing through canon exercises, in preparation for several two-part vocal songs they will be rehearsing for the end of the year. Students are also being introduced to the concept of vocal harmony, using Kodàly hand signals corresponding with Solfège.

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