About the Music Program
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| Fourth grade students enjoy a visit from Adirondack folksinger Christopher Shaw. |
At the Westhill Central School District, we give priority to the musical growth and development of every student. All children can become proficient music makers who sing comfortably and in tune, move comfortably in response to music, and are sensitive to the expressive qualities in music.
In the elementary music classroom, students learn by doing. Singing, playing instruments, and moving to music allow children to acquire musical skills and knowledge that can be developed in no other way.
Music classes are built around the traditional songs, games and dances that flow naturally from childhood and our cultural heritages, and offer rich learning experiences for our children. Students also practice aural and rhythm skills regularly.
Not long ago we were a society of music makers. Families and communities shared and performed a repertoire of traditional songs and dances. Influenced by modern technology, we have mostly become a society of music consumers. Our goal is to help students build skills that will allow them to become musicians as well as lifelong learners of music. We are committed to providing all students with the finest possible music education.
Singing is the instinctive language of the child. (Zoltan Kodåly, Singing Games, 1937)
Our Favorites From Your Local Library
The Onondaga County Public Library is full of music including song books, story songs, and shelves and shelves of compact disc recordings. And best of all, its all FREE! If not available from your local branch, these selections may be requested through inter-library loan directly from the website.
Abiyoyo: based on a South African lullaby and folk story
By Pete Seeger
Banished from the town for making mischief, a little boy and his father are welcomed back when they find a way to make the dreaded giant Abiyoyo disappear.
This Land is Your Land
By Woody Guthrie
This well-known folk song is accompanied by a tribute from folksinger Pete Seeger, the musical notation, and a biographical scrapbook with photographs.
Some of Our Favorite Recordings
Many parents have asked me to recommend recordings of childrens' music. Below is a list of some of my favorites in no particular order. I'll add to it throughout the year.
Birds, Beasts, Bugs & Fishes Little & Big: Animal Folk Songs by Pete Seeger
Children's Concert at Town Hall by Pete Seeger
Hello World! by Red Grammer
The Big Rock Candy Mountain by John Kirk & Trish Miller
Jambo and Other Call & Response Songs and Chants by Ella Jenkins
American Folk Songs for Children by Mike & Peggy Seeger
Songs for Little Pickers by Doc Watson
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Mr. McCrea's Music Classroom
