It has long been a dream to bring an instrumental music program to LCCS and we are happy to say that this fall will mark the first year of our new program.
The program will begin in the 4th and 5th grades with plans to expand into the next Middle School grade in each subsequent year. Participation is optional and instruments available will be flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and percussion. Instruments will be rented through an outside company and the cost will be about $20 a month. We plan to have methods available to cover those costs for families who cannot afford it, and we will work to ensure that any after school music sessions don’t interfere with the popular 5th grade musical.
Instrumental music will be offered during class time when “specials” are traditionally taught (music, art, gym, etc.) but days will rotate so participating students will not miss out on those important classes.
Over the summer we converted an old locker room into an instrumental music room, and because of the new program, we are thrilled to welcome Mike Brown as our instrumental music teacher.
Mike, in the music room as it was under construction.
Mike has played in bands including the pit orchestra for the New Jersey Shakespeare Festival, and most recently spent the past 10 years touring the world with the ska punk band, Streetlight Manifesto. He has taught music at nearby Primary Prep, has substitute taught here at LCCS, and was giving private lessons to about 50 students a week.
“Music has played such an important role in my life,” Mike says. “I’m so excited to come into a school, to help create a program, and help children have the same experience with music that I’ve had.”
A music committee has been formed to support the program. If you are interested in more information in supporting our developing music program, please reach out to parent Allyson Johnson at [email protected]