Email: gstringham@simonandjude.org
Website: classroom.google.com
I received my B.M. in Music Education from Immaculata University and I have been teaching at Saints Simon and Jude School since 2015. In spring 2017, I co-founded SSJ's thriving musical program and I also began taking our school's Concert Choir to choral competitions. I teach grades Pre-K 3 through 8th grades general music as well as direct two choral ensembles. Students in my classroom sing, dance, play instruments and explore sounds in unique ways through a variety of lessons and activities. I am eager to share my passion for music with my students!
WELCOME TO MUSIC CLASS
Math - Language - History - Reading - Science
A good music education incorporates all five of the main subject areas listed above by making connections, such as how sound is produced, when a composer was alive, singing in a different language, and identifying note rhythmic values. Music class is about teaching students the “ingredients” of music such as melody, harmony, rhythm, timbre, form, and style. Students will explore the basics of music through singing, performing on classroom instruments, composing, and listening to examples of music from around the world, including musical theater. Group projects will extend their learning by teaching them how to apply musical concepts taught in class.
Lower-grade students will work on identifying steady beat, singing on pitch, exploring fundamental music concepts, and developing fine motor skills through playing instruments.
Upper-grade students will continue to learn about the elements of music, music appreciation, and composers. They will apply their knowledge to original compositions and group work, as well as learn how to critique musical performances in a positive manner. Students in grades 4-6 learn many key music concepts through practicing and playing the recorder.
Chorus: Students in grades 2-4 are invited to join Chorus, which meets after school on Thursdays until 3:45 PM
Concert Choir: Students in grades 5-8 are invited to join Concert Choir, which meets on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays during lunch/recess. This performance group travels to choral competitions at amusement parks in the spring.
Students in these two performing groups are given opportunities to cantor, perform in the annual Christmas and Spring Concerts, and participate in Archdiocesan festivals.