March is Music in Our Schools Month
March is Music in Our Schools Month! Initiated by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), this celebration raises awareness of the importance of music education for all children and, in NAfME’s own words, “remind[s] citizens that school is where all children should have access to music.” We couldn’t agree more! Here are a couple of recent S’Cool Sounds (SCS) highlights from NYC public schools.
At P.S. 150 in Brownsville, second and third grade students are receiving violins for the first time. Over the past two years, our partnership has brought programs like Roots of Rhythm, United We Sing, and Recorders Without Borders into their classrooms. Now, thanks to new grant funding, a dedicated violin program is possible. SCS Teaching Artist Katie Pawluk will lead the way, introducing American folk songs to budding musicians.
In Harlem at P.S. 161, SCS Teaching Artist Minnie Jordan is restoring a violin program that’s been silent for years. Students will now begin learning the violin at an age that supports strong skill development and self-confidence as this violin tradition returns to the school.
And in Sunset Park at P.S. 24, SCS Teaching Artist Sam Bardfeld has nurtured a violin program for more than three years, growing it from a small club into a polished ensemble. This year, the school selected the group to represent them in the district-wide arts showcase. Their performance of American folk tunes reflected musical growth and a strength in partnership we’ve built over time.
Last month, SCS Teaching Artists led full bands in presenting Black History Month assemblies at elementary and middle schools in Brooklyn and Manhattan. Based on our popular year-round residency curriculum, Jazz and the World of Black American Music, these assemblies included joyful celebrations and songwriting opportunities as students created their own blues.
Your generosity makes it possible for SCS to place instruments in students’ hands, and helps restore old, sustain existing, and build new programs. Please consider donating today!
VIDEO OF THE WEEK
Watch SCS Teaching Artists Berta Moreno (tenor sax) and Linda EPO (vocals) perform a vibrant set at the legendary Birdland Jazz Club. This duo also leads school assemblies together, bringing the same artistry and energy from the stage to students across NYC.