The St. Mark’s Campus Adds Piano to Music Curriculum

Under the guidance of Music Instructors Susanne Daily and Jen Meister, the St. Mark’s Campus is beginning to utilize piano in grades 2 – 5, blending traditional music education and technology with its already robust music curriculum. 

 

“Technology integration is pivotal in modern music education,” said Ms. Meister. “Students will explore and manipulate sounds by connecting keyboards to platforms like Garage Band on iPads and Chrome Music Lab on Chromebooks.”

 

Piano instruction begins with one fundamental objective: mastering finger coordination. Students begin by playing short melody patterns with their right hands. As they progress, the focus shifts to incorporating the left hand, culminating in the accomplishment of playing short songs with both hands by fifth grade.

 

Piano complements an already vibrant music curriculum. Beginning with clapping and singing in the younger grades, students read music and explore the ukulele, recorders, drums, and xylophones in older grades.

 

“This comprehensive approach to music education ensures that students are equipped with a versatile set of skills, preparing them for an array of musical ensembles in the future,” said Mrs Dailey. “Whether they join a choir, form a band, or explore orchestral arrangements, the piano is an invaluable foundation.”