More than 100 Killeen ISD fifth-graders received a powerful introduction Saturday to the beautiful world of making orchestra music.
During two sessions at JDA Middle School, the elementary students from across the district took part in a string camp that began with a demonstration and introduction to the stringed instruments associated with orchestra.
Next, the students spent in hour in the class of their choice to learn to play violin, viola, cello or bass. To conclude, they performed in a concert, playing three different tunes.
Directors from KISD’s two high school and seven middle school orchestra programs provided instruction and volunteer middle school and high school players assisted.
“The elementary string camp gives students an introduction to the four bowed string instruments in a fun group setting with their peers,” said Melissa James, Eastern Hills Middle School orchestra director.
“They learn the string names, how to hold the instrument, how to play the instrument pizzicato, and then they use those skills to perform together,” she said.
KISD Assistant Fine Arts Director Amy Bennett compared the experience of learning to play music together as “making magic happen.”
Speaking to parents scattered through the school cafeteria for the concert, Bennett said many of their children began the day quiet and uncertain but through the class opened up and enjoyed the thrill of learning to make music.
“We hope this experience inspires them to continue their musical journey and enroll in orchestra as they head into sixth grade,” Bennett said.
About 650 students make up the district’s current middle school and orchestra programs.
Research shows that music education helps to improve reading and math skills. It also develops confidence and camaraderie, the assistant fine arts director said to parents.
Alice Morris, orchestra director at Nolan Middle School, enjoyed watching the young students build confidence in the brief time they were together.
“Today has been great. We had our highest turnout ever. It was nice to get to interact with them. It’s a big deal because they don’t have that chance at elementary school,” Morris said.
“They were a little reserved at first, but as the day went on, they were excited about the instrument and didn’t want to stop,” she said. “It was nice to see them come out of their shells.”
For incoming middle school students, orchestra is a way to make friends, including older students who can serve as mentors as they learn music.
Chaparral High School sophomore Makayla Faulk was one of the orchestra students helping the directors and performing alongside the elementary participants.
“It was exciting to see students learn about instruments they had not played before. One of the biggest parts was showing them how to pluck strings and proper posture,” she said. “They seemed to enjoy it. We played games in between. Overall, it was really fun.”
“One of the most fun parts of orchestra is getting to perform on stage in front of family and friends. You also get to go on trips. You get to challenge yourself as you increase difficulty in the music and reach higher levels.”
Elementary string camp photo gallery:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/killeenisd/albums/72177720331422014/with/55036238174