Newhart Middle School
Vocal Music Department
Director: Ms. Misha Voss
March 2007
Dear Parents of Incoming
Sixth Graders,
It is with great excitement
that we welcome you to Newhart Middle School, and the continuation of your
childŐs journey in education! Along with an outstanding academic curriculum,
Newhart maintains one of CUSDŐs best Fine Arts programs for the middle school
student. Along with the many choices you will be making for your childŐs
education, is the choice for an Elective Class. It is my pleasure to invite you
to consider the SIXTH GRADE CHORUS for your childŐs Elective.
SIXTH GRADE CHORUS is a
year-long class that allows your child to celebrate the discovery and
utilization of their vocal instrument through Song Experience Games, culturally
diverse and varied choral literature, and techniques in stage performance and
body movement/choreography, fostering awareness among members to work together,
while providing a safe and nurturing environment in which to learn.
SIXTH GRADE CHORUS upholds
the California State Standards in music education by providing curriculum that
addresses learning across the curriculum, providing instruction that is
thoughtful, interesting, and accessible to multi-modalities of learning. The
development of proper breathing and speaking/singing skills, listening skills,
music vocabulary and understanding of fundamental music theory are just the
beginning. Consider the following:
- Research shows that when music is included in a
student's daily learning that reading, writing and math scores improve.
- There is a high correlation between positive
self-perception, high cognitive competence scores, healthy self-esteem,
total interest in school activities and the study of music.
- College admission officers give special consideration
to students who are part of their high school music programs. By taking music in middle school,
you are taking steps towards college requirements.
- The longer an individual studies music, the
higher his/her scores tend to be on both the verbal and math portions of
the SAT examination.
Being a member of a music
ensemble ensures instant acceptance in a respected organization at the onset of
being a Sixth Grader, establishing a firm sense of Ňbelonging.Ó It is my hope
that your childŐs transition into this next level fosters success both
academically as well as socially, inspiring positive opportunities and
experiences.
Please contact me if you
have any questions concerning this vitally important decision.
I join you in your
commitment to the best education possible for your child.
Kindest regards,
Misha Voss, NMS Vocal Music
Teacher
mrvoss@capousd.org
Newhart
Music Teachers
http://teacherweb.capousd.org/vapetty
