I am a member of the founding faculty and since the very beginning, Lincoln has felt like home. I didn't know much about classical education, but I quickly realized that it aligned with my educational and moral philosophy. If you are choosing to send your scholars to Archway Lincoln, you have probably read up on classical education. If you have not, I would encourage you to read the brief overview of Great Heart's philosophy here. The spark notes version is this:
We seek to cultivate the hearts and minds of our students in the pursuit of
Now here is the part where I try to explain what music might look like this year.*
Our music curriculum is three-fold: singing & choral performance, music history, and music theory. Under normal circumstances we have 2 mandatory performances per year (Winter and Spring). This year, we will not have a Winter concert because of the current gathering and singing restrictions. Spring is undecided and we will abide by the guidelines in place at that time. While this is extremely disheartening for many of us, I have to believe that someday we will once again be able to provide this experience to our students. Regardless, we will be employing creative solutions to maintain singing in the curriculum while upholding health and safety guidelines.
First and Second graders will have a Composer of the Month. They will learn facts and anecdotes about these great composers and become familiar with a few of their essential pieces. Kindergartners will hear a variety of these great musical works as well however, the focus is on exposure, exploration and experiencing the music. I usually introduce the term "composer" during the second semester but I may move things around this year because of remote learning.
In regards to music theory, the students are introduced to foundational musical concepts and "music vocabulary" so they are able to begin to listen with understanding.**
The online learning experience will not be identical to having a normal, in person music experience. Flexibility is essential for all parties this year, myself included! We will be utilizing creativity to bring as much authentic learning to our students as possible. Additionally, we will be continually practicing grace- grace towards each other, and towards ourselves knowing that this year will be challenging for everyone.
Socrates said, "Wisdom begins in wonder." Here's hoping that this year we can replace our fretful wondering with the beauty of wisdom and awestruck wonder. See you soon,
*Subject to changing health and safety guidelines
**A great book on this subject (for adults) is What to Listen for in Music by Aaron Copland
In regards to music theory, the students are introduced to foundational musical concepts and "music vocabulary" so they are able to begin to listen with understanding.**
The online learning experience will not be identical to having a normal, in person music experience. Flexibility is essential for all parties this year, myself included! We will be utilizing creativity to bring as much authentic learning to our students as possible. Additionally, we will be continually practicing grace- grace towards each other, and towards ourselves knowing that this year will be challenging for everyone.
Socrates said, "Wisdom begins in wonder." Here's hoping that this year we can replace our fretful wondering with the beauty of wisdom and awestruck wonder. See you soon,
*Subject to changing health and safety guidelines
**A great book on this subject (for adults) is What to Listen for in Music by Aaron Copland
