Study after study has proven that music education dramatically increases early brain development and improves students' overall academic performance. The following is a sample of the research that is currently available:
Improves Reading and Math Performance
A research team studying first graders from two Rhode Island elementary schools found that students who participated in an "enriched, sequential, skill building music program" dramatically increased their reading and math performance.
-From Nature May 23, 1996; Gardiner, Fox, Jeffery and Knowles
Increases SAT Scores
Students with coursework/experience in music performance scored 55 points higher on the verbal portion of the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) and 38 points higher on the math portion of the SAT than students with no coursework or experience in the arts for a combined total of 93 points higher.
-Profiles of SAT and Achievement Test Takers 2000, The College Board
Develops Quick and Decisive Thinking
During musical performance, children must constantly turn their thoughts into action. Thought structures continually have to be updated and adjusted. The combination of constant vigilance and forethought coupled with ever-changing physical responses is an educational experience of unique value.
-Frances Rouscher, Ph. D., Univesity of Wisconsin, Oshkosh; NAMM 1997 publication: "Making Music Makes You Smarter."
Provides Important Experiences
Musical activities provide children with important experiences that can help them develop physical coordination, timing, memory, visual, aural and language skills. When they work to increase their command of music and exercise musical skills in the company of others, they gain important experiences with self-paced learning, mental concentration and a heightened personal and social awareness.
-Frank R. Wilson, M.D.; Associate Clinical Professor of Neurology- University of California School of Medicine in San Francisco; AMC 1998 Publication: "Music and Your Child."
DCI Trip to Salem High School
July 27- Depart RHS (3pm)
Augusta Beginning Band Academy
August 5 @ BMMS (9am-11am)
August 5 @ SMS (1pm-3pm)
August 6 @ SDMS (9am-11am)
August 6 @ WMS (1pm-3pm)
Jazz Band Starts
September 15 (3:15-4:45)
Valley Showcase of Bands
October 12 @ SDHS (7pm)
BGHS Band Day
October 30 (TBA)
Augusta County Band Auditions
November 2 @ FDHS (3:45-6:30)
District Band Auditions
December 12 @ WMHS (TBA)
Winter Band Concert
December 17 (7pm)
In-School Concert
December 18 (1:30)
District Band Auditions
Alternate Make-Up Date
January 9 @ WMHS (TBA)
Augusta County Honors Band
January 29 @ RHS (TBA)
January 30 @ RHS (TBA)
District Honors Band
February 5 @ Harrisonburg HS (TBA)
February 6 @ Harrisonburg HS (TBA)
District Band Festival
March 12 @ Broadway HS (TBA)
6th Grade Orientation
April 26 (TBA)
Spring Band Concert
April 29 (7pm)
