The Observation Deck

Do we still have orchestra in middle schools? Does one school offer more music than another? (Are music classes still offered?)

Are DVDs of the Lakewood Project available somewhere?

Although I don't know a great deal about the programs (unfortunately my kids never made it past elementary school with their instruments), they do have orchestra and band at the middle schools and I believe the music teachers alternate between the schools on different days. And since they have the same teachers, I would guess they are equal in quality.

The music classes that are offered are orchestra, band, choir, and general music.

Now here's a great topic that I happen to have some personally opinionated knowledge about.

Dad (a retired Lakewood band and orchestra director) and I, both being retired teachers, both volunteer with the Lakewood middle school music program; primarily at Garfield Middle School, but also at times, at Harding.

Both schools offer great band, orchestra, and choral programs. Teachers at both Garfield and Harding also work with students at the feed-in elementary schools, to assure continuity of curriculum.

Both middle schools do an excellent job with their respective programs, and both coordinate well with the high school music activities.

Lakewood schools continue to have an outstanding tradition of developing excellence in music education. Either middle school would provide outstanding opportunities for skill development and performance applications.

I would only add to this, that if a parent is considering a musical instrument for a child, that private lessons be an essential part of the experience. There are so many aspects to skill development with a musical instrument that can be refined with private lessons.

My children have been through Taft with Mrs. Tabaj and then on to Emerson with her as well. She is dedicated and hard working. She believes in the kids and encourages their creativeness. They also have been lucky to have Mr. Griebel (in 9th grade) who is now at Harding. He also is so dedicated and really great with the kids. They both have instilled a love for music in all of my kids. I don't think you can go wrong with either of the middle schools. My youngest now has Mr. Maskow at LHS and he is a good music instructor also. All are very positive influences.

Mary Breiner

My son is currently in band at Garfield. What a wonderful program. Ms. Tabaj is tremendous. I don't think you can go wrong in the instrumental programs at either middle school.

Dad and I do most of our volunteer work with Ms. Tabaj. She is absolutely one of the finest teachers and individuals that we've ever met. Her dedication to the craft of education is inspiring. As well, Messrs Griebel and Maskow are both examples of the educational excellence that continue to characterize the Lakewood Schools.

Incidentally, Mr. Griebel took over Dad's job at Harding. Dad had 25 years at Harding, and I seem to recall that this year makes 25 for Brian Griebel, as well, so between them, that marks about 50 years of music education at Harding!

Dad composed "The Harding March", and was honored last year by directing it, as it was played to close the old school. He presented his famous "electric baton" to Mr. Griebel to mark the occasion.

Dad and I collaborated in creating "The Garfield March" for the new Garfield Middle School, and that was showcased last spring, as well.

In my opinion, these two Lakewood middle schools, and their music programs, are true jewels in our community.

I have a considerable interest in the music program in our city, let alone nationwide.

One tip on having your children take up music lessons. Not only should the instructor of private lessons and music directors be capable, but find out if that person is the type of person your child might LOOK UP TO.

The single worst case scenario for a child and an instrument is boredom with it, and that is the teacher's end, to not allow that to happen That, in my opinion is where the love for playing gets lost.

Hey, I had Bob Rice as the Director at Harding to keep the fires burning.
Too bad memories can't be put on a DVD ....or can they? *puts TFH back on*


Mark Allan Crnolatas

How timely this topic is as last week we attended a music program at Harding. Our son plays the cello. The program was fantastic and included several orchestra groups, the choir and the jazz band. The experience was wonderful. My husband was impressed by the vast ability of the students. I have to say that the Lakewood City Schools takes music very seriously and I am glad that my children have the opportunity to be part of the music program. And to answer the original question, the schools both have equally excellent programs, just as the elementary schools all have equally good programs. We are so fortunate to have such wonderful music programs in this city.