By Yakelin Victoriano Hernandez
Music is a beautiful way to express oneself. Music can relieve stress and make others more motivated. However, it requires discipline. The commitment to play an instrument involves time management, determination, and organization.
Time management is something that is enforced when learning an instrument. It is important for students to keep their grades up while taking time out of their day to build up your playing skills.
On May 23, 2017 students all over Passaic got a glimpse of how the music programs in the schools that the band kids attended to learn music are progressing. Band Day is a tradition in Passaic to highlight all of the wonderfully talented student musicians.
Elementary school students came happy and eager to see the high school students. All the players from flutes to percussion were asking the high school students what instrument they play. They looked up to the students, which strengthened their love for music even more.
The day started with all of the young students being escorted to their seats with their peers. School No. 6 performed first, and even though they experienced a change in music teachers, we saw how much more of an effort was put to keep their music program just as good as the years before.
The show continued with School No. 19, No. 3, No. 9, No. 4, No. 20 and last but not least, PHS.
The past No. 6 School music teacher, Mr. Kevin Place, was transferred to LMS. Place left School No. 6 for LMS, and took his brother’s spot. He puts in a lot of effort to have his music program perform at a high level, like his brother left it. His brother, Mr. Keith Place, was the previous music program director at LMS, and now works at School No. 20.
Music for many students is a way to let go. Music had helped me keep on track with what students have going on in school. From the teachers that help students keep up with their schoolwork, or Mr. Rusca telling students what is expected of them when they decide to join band, it is a commitment that helps strengthen all areas of academic and social life. Students have made friends in band back in middle school and continue to stay close today through music.
