Lacey Johnson, Band Teacher, Norway Intermediate
May is such a special time for music and band! At the high school, seniors are performing in their final concerts with their class, showcasing eight years of outstanding work, incredible perseverance, and countless memories and friendships they have made on their musical journeys. Meanwhile, at Norway Intermediate, 4th graders are at the very beginning of their band journey. They have worked hard to learn to read music and play the recorder with Ms. Madsen, and now they are ready to learn about the band instruments, try various instrument mouthpieces, and select a band instrument!
Between our celebrated seniors and our newest beginners, we have hundreds of band kids making fantastic progress on their musical journeys. They have been working so hard to put together amazing performances for the end of the year! In Norway, 5th and 6th graders are preparing a slew of adventure-themed music for their next concert on Thursday, May 23. Some of these kids will also perform in the school’s variety show on May 8, performing solos in front of hundreds of other kids! Many of the 5th and 6th graders have learned “Happy Birthday” to perform for family members, friends, and staff, sharing their music as a gift to others. The kids put so much effort and heart into their musical journeys at Benton, making the music rooms a truly special place, and May might be the best time of the entire year to appreciate the skills, confidence, friendships, and memories they have gained along the way.