ELEMENTARY PERFORMING ARTS RESIDENCY PROGRAM

Brian Boyes will be teaching elementary programs in Music Composition and Indonesian Gamelan. In conjunction with the music comp. unit our students will be participating in the Vermont MIDI Project. Additionally, we will be hosting Poet/Performer Kris Gruen of Second Sunset Produtions, Drummer Simeon Darley Chapin and Dancer Christine Harris. Additionally,

Throughout the year, students will have the opportunity to work with these performing arts educators towards a specific goal, which they would achieve within the period allotted for each medium. The work done throughout the year will culminate in a final multi-media presentation to the community featuring dance, drama, and original music and writing by our students.

This curricular renaissance is designed to educate our students to be creative, thoughtful individuals while sparking their cognitive abilities in an environment that allows the students to take ownership of their work. Thus giving voice to each child’s unique expression.
Additionally, as we create a stronger elementary music and performing arts program, we are feeding the future of the arts and overall academic achievement and emotional and social well being of our students. Through a solid high-arts environment, our students will grow into confident and expressive young adults prepared to give back to the local community and world.

CABOT SCHOOL TO ACQUIRE A 50 YEAR OLD JAVANESE BRONZE GAMELAN.

Gamelan playing is an excellent way of teaching children listening and general music skills that many would not acquire through conventional music making in the classroom. It is also a beautiful set of instruments to listen to and look at.

Through a generous anonymous donation in conjunction with a Federal Title V Grant, the school has been able to acquire Gamelan Singing Brook.

WHY GAMELAN?

Although the traditional instrumental music program has seen increased numbers in enrollment over the past few years, there are still many students who choose not to participate in the instrumental music program. The Global Music Initiative is meant for all Cabot students, but has been developed to attract the “non-band kids.”

This initiative will provide opportunities for both our younger students and our older students. Each year there are always high school students who for a variety of reasons did not pick up an instrument in elementary school but are seeking music opportunities as young adults. This program is perfect for those students.

Opposed to traditional western instruments, metallaphones and drums are initially much easier to connect with. Students who may get easily discouraged through their trials with western instruments will have the opportunity to find success in our Global Music Program.
Gamelan playing is an excellent way of teaching children listening and general music skills that many would not acquire through conventional music making in the classroom. It is also a beautiful set of instruments to listen to and look at.
By offering these types of opportunities in hands-on global music, a much higher percentage of students will have the chance to experience the benefits of music.