RAVENA — The Ravena Coeymans Selkirk Music Department hosted several musical performances on campus to recognize Music In Our Schools Month last month.
Each year, the RCS Central School District and Music Department celebrate Music In Our Schools Month (MIOSM) during the month of March. The month is used to celebrate and bring awareness to the educational importance of youth music programs. It also stands as a reminder that all students should have access to music education within their schools. There are many educational benefits to providing music programs to our students. Beyond the educational benefits, music programs in schools provide opportunities for students to come together socially and express themselves creatively.
“March has been a busy month for the RCS Music Department,” said K-12 Art and Music Curriculum Content Specialist and High School Choral Director Michelle McLoughlin. “From the musical to the concerts, these events have all been reminders of the important role music plays within our schools. The skills learned through music opportunities positively contribute to all aspects of the whole student, including improved academics, coordination, memory, teamwork, and social skills.”
Performances included one for grades 6 through 12 choral students, one for grade 6 through 12 instrumental students, and one for 5th-grade choral and instrumental students. Additionally, the High School Harmonics and Jazz Ensemble visited the Empire State Plaza to perform as a part of NYSSMA’s celebration of MIOSM.
The High School Drama Club returned to the stage for the first time in two years to perform the hit Disney musical Newsies. All of the performances from this month have been spectacular and really highlighted how much our students and community benefit from music programs and opportunities.
The National Association for Music Education created and started celebrating Music In Our Schools Month more than 30 years ago. It originally started as a single day in 1973 and grew over the decades to become a month-long celebration of school music in 1985.
RCS Students will continue performing at the upcoming NYSSMA Solo and Ensemble Festivals through April and May, the Middle School Drama Club will soon take the stage, and Spring concerts will be rounding out the season.
