In the past few years, we have been building a new music program at Yavneh. We created a new vision, implemented new teaching approaches, added new instruments, and various opportunities for students to share their learning through performances inside and outside Yavneh. While music has been a part of the learning curriculum for all of the students at school, building the lower school music program was a priority as we wanted to build it up and upon skills of each grade to make sure there is a progression in learning from one grade to another.
This year, I am thrilled to have new opportunities to work with the Middle School students and happy to invest more time and energy in implementing the Middle School music curriculum to complete our K-8 music program vision at Yavneh.
What is the vision and goal for the music program in Middle School?
The middle school music curriculum’s goals are to facilitate leadership and creativity and to empower students to be active musical leaders in the community. In addition, by completing the K-5 music program, this middle school curriculum aims to form a sustainable music education program at school where students express their Jewish leadership by:
- Songleading at school events
- Performing as a band/ensemble at community events, Kabbalat Shabbat, and holidays.
- Creating a new repertoire of Jewish songs that have been written, composed, arranged, performed, and recorded by the student community.
I had the pleasure of working with Kitah Zayin this trimester as we dived into rhythm and African drumming. As the student’s drumming became more coherent, so did the group’s energy and their creativity bloomed. I am super pleased with their commitment, attention and capacity to learn this trimester. Kitah Zayin (with the help of Claire, Lauren, and Doug) created this music video to share a part of their learning this trimester and give you a glimpse of what they will lead and perform tomorrow during a special Kabbalat Shabbat (open to Yavneh’s parents) in honor of Rabbi Hahn Tapper.
