Last night, we had a chance to see our middle schoolers in the middle of middle school-- 7th grade-- demonstrating how far they've come as singers and musicians.
We heard 7th graders in orchestra, choir and two bands.
The highlight of Harding's performance for me was when our new music director, Mr. Harris (who we are losing to Lakewood High School in the Fall!) described how the second piece that was played was commissioned by a school district for their own music department, and by the time it was composed, because of the failure of a levy, there was no music program left in which students could perform it.
He said that we should remember to celebrate the good care we take of each other in Lakewood, our kids, our schools, and to not take it for granted.
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The other highlight for me was the Garfield band's performance of "You've got a friend in me" conducted by an old friend from Grant elementary school (and I think every elementary school in Lakewood) Mrs. Judy Tabaj who seems to be everywhere, and is celebrating her 25th! year as a music teacher this year. It was so great to watch the lady that taught my son what a trumpet was-- conduct her own students, now at such a high level of performance. (They sounded like the movie.)
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Congratulations to us, on our healthy music program, kids, and school district. Thank you so much Ms. Tabaj, Mr. Harris, and the many many "music boosters" throughout the years.
Betsy Voinovich
