Prior to February, I had struggled on how to highlight the music and compositions from that of African-American musicians and composers while integrating technology (I’m still evolving)…Sprial.ac and Flipgrid saved my life. Both technology platforms gave my students a voice that ignited conversation and passion beyond my expectations. I wanted them to understand that even the smallest contribution is significant to the evolution of music. By highlighting songs and elements from the jazz, hip hop, pop, and even rap genres, I was able to encourage collaboration with all of my students, no matter their race.

So on today, I wish to highlight James Weldon Johnson, author, educator, lawyer, diplomat, and songwriter. Johnson was born on June 17, 1871 in Florida. He is best remembered for his leadership of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Johnson composed the lyrics of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” originally written for a celebration of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday at Stanton School. This song became widely popular and has become known as the “Negro National Anthem. The song included the following lines:

Lift every voice and sing, till earth and Heaven ring

Ring with the harmonies of liberty;

Let our rejoicing rise, high as the listening skies,

Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark has taught us,

Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;

Facing the rising sun as our new day begun.

Let us march on, till victory is won.

#History365 #MusicMonday

If you had asked me 6 months ago if I were excited about the new school year, my answer probably would have been No. I was looking forward to enjoying my first official summer off, being that I have worked every summer up until this past summer. Oh, but when I started to think about what I wanted my students to sound like, where I wanted them to be vocally, and the impact I wanted them to leave on this school year, I immediately thought  “Concerts, Uniforms, Fees, LGPE, Fundraisers, etc.” We have now completed almost 40% of the school year and I’m wondering “Where has the time gone?” The students are now gearing up for their Christmas concert, and their progress amazes me daily. I don’t know who’s more excited, me or them. As we continue to stride through to May 24, 2018 I am reminded daily of why I show to do what I am passionate about, and that is to educate the world one voice at a time.

Early Mornings, New Environment, Nervous Parents, Schedule Changes…lots and lots of schedule changes! Our first few weeks at Bear Creek and more specifically, in Chorus,  have been filled with anticipation about the events that will be taking place over the course of the school year. I am learning and growing with my students; what they like, what they dislike, how their voices are changing, etc. and having fun molding their voices in the process. I am equally excited about this year as they are. Expectations and Standards have been set and our classroom environment is one of many, many, many talents. The students are breaking out of their shells and I am loving it. Oh, The Places We’ll Go this year. Join us on this rocket ship as we zoom through each crescendo, melody, and phrase!

It is my desire to challenge my students vocally to encourage them to push beyond their limitations, embrace the changes, and possess knowledge of the how and why behind the voice. By doing so, they will learn to value the art behind music in general and develop a greater appreciation for singing.

Auditions will be held in the Chorus Room (505) on August 17, 2017 from 4:30-5:30. I encourage all current members of the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade choruses to audition!

There are a number of things to be excited about when entering a new year of teaching, learning, and exploring. I don’t know about most teachers, but I am most excited about  being able to create a positive, inviting, and musical (pun intended!) environment. Although this is my second school year working with my students, I am eager to watch them grow as disciplined singers and enriched musicians. The 2017-2018 school year has not even started yet and I already know that it will be a phenomenal year. Stay tuned!

Welcome students, parents, administration, colleagues, and community members! Here you will find updates on the 2017-2018 school year, including music resources, photos, videos, performance dates, and so much more!

I have tons of information to keep you in the loop about the extraordinary things that will be taking place this year in our Chorus program.

I’m looking forward to meeting all of you and beginning what I know is going to be an amazing year of singing, performing…..and traveling! 🙂 

*Please be sure to subscribe to keep up with us!

~Mrs. Smith