Choir, band concerts worth attending

It comes as no surprise that the music program of the Clovis Municipal Schools is exceptional. Our long-standing tradition of excellence is the direct result of the dedication of staff, students, and parents supporting their children's efforts.

The Clovis Schools are somewhat unique in that a few years ago, when many schools across the nation were cutting back music programs — even doing away with them entirely — we stood firm and never faltered in offering the same outstanding music program we always have.

Maintaining certified music educators from K-12 not only benefits students, but also supports learning and academics across the curriculum. Extensive research shows that training in music supports language and cognitive development. Areas of the brain are distinctively stimulated and developed through learning music. In addition, through musical training, students learn the benefits of perseverance and, whether learning songs or instruments, the process of developing required skills teaches students basic work ethics, whether striving to perfect or at least improve. Students learn pattern recognition, the ability to fine-tune auditory skills, while music stimulates imagination and intellectual curiosity. Music teaches the value of discipline and the critical aspect of truly effective collaboration, such as, when learning a piece of music to perform with others.

The list of benefits could go on and on, something that could also be said of the list of awards achieved through our music program. It's become, in fact, quite an impossible task to capture all the incredible triumphs of our music students and staff. However, an excellent representation of the successes is ideally illustrated by recent end-of-year performances, both the All-Choral Night and the All-Band Night concerts.

Both events were held at the “The Rock,” the massive CHS gym, with about 650 students participating in the choirs, and about 700 students performing on the All Band evening. Students were from all schools, elementary through secondary, and literally filled the floor of the gym. The stands were packed with parents and community members, and the performances were magical. Air crackling with excitement and anticipation, this event was also a first for many students. Even the mere sight alone produced a thrill of goosebump delight.

As the music swelled, the air filled deliciously with young voices or instruments creating an indescribable treat for the ears, and — perhaps even more importantly — for the heart.

All I can say is add these nights to your bucket list.

Cindy Kleyn-Kennedy is the Instructional Technology Coordinator for the Clovis Municipal Schools and can be reached at: [email protected]