Musical angels hang up their halos

Manny Everett
Times Contributor

 

It has been said that music is a universal language. More and more we hear about the benefits of music in things like healing, stress relief, boosting brain-power and memory.
A lot goes into preparing for music on an individual basis let alone preparing for a gym full of noisy kids ages 5-13.
Over a decade ago Carol McKay and Barb Gregory jointly began a music program at Standard School, as well as extending it to the Rockyford Elementary School. Parents, grandparents and community residents have been delighted with their musical offerings twice a year. This past June the two ladies retired much to the dismay of everyone who has listened to or participated in their music over the last 10 years.
McKay and Gregory introduced kids to a variety of musical pieces from classical to modern day. The kids had opportunities to learn Boomwhackers, lightweight, tuned percussion, hollow color-coded, plastic tubes tuned to musical pitches by length, as well as triangles and clapping rhythms, just to name a few.
“Carol and Barb would be considered ‘a team of angels’ who came to Standard School 12 years ago to give it a new identity,” said Susan Moncks, a teacher at Standard School. “They volunteered not only countless hours of their time to our students, but gave us their talents, encouragement and their hearts. They made all students believe they could sing – an important life skill for us all. The performances they put together were polished and fun and brought in a packed crowd every time. Their retirement brings an emptiness to our school, but is well deserved for them.”
Principal Karen Smith agreed.
“Standard School was extremely fortunate to have Carol and Barb volunteer their time towards our music program for many years,” said Smith. “Their passion for music and commitment to our students resulted in years of outstanding performances that were always enjoyed and appreciated by the students, staff, parents and community members. These two ladies made music come alive in our building.”
Going forward Mr.Ed Yu, a teacher at Standard School is taking over the elementary music program, as part of his teaching schedule. “I am humbled to follow in Barb’s and Carol’s footsteps but I believe in music. What other medium has the power that music does. It should be a part of every child’s education. Often, when we think of school and education, academics and sports are at the top of the list. I believe music and drama are essential to education. There already is a special connection between children and music. They want to listen to it, appreciate it, play it. I see this with my own very young children who want to dance just as much as they want to learn to walk. They want to sing just as much as they want to learn to talk. My responsibility is important but simple: I help kids enjoy music”