Ratajeski's Music Notes

Rachel Ratajeski
Mrs. Ratajeski's Web Page

The Music Department at Bethesda Elementary was established in the Fall of 1992, when an Orff-Schulwerk certified music specialist was hired. The department embraces the philosophy that every person has musical aptitude. Specifically, the Orff-Schulwerk approach to music education, which is the basis of the music program here, automatically addresses the needs of all students giving each child a degree of sucess. It stresses the place of the individual as a practicable participant in any group activity. Although that aptitude varies among individuals, the child's "talent" will be greatly influenced by his or her early musical experiences. In addition, the mental disciplines learned through musical play and study, such as, memory skills, concentration, and symbol recognition are just as exacting as those underlying reading, mathematics and social studies. A child who has worked to improve his or her musical skills understands that achievement is based on sustained personal effort and is it's own reward. By involving the child in musical activities at an early age, the parents are investing in the child's future. Even though the child may never become a professional musician, music will become a life-long activity.

The schedule at present is such that every child in the school has music at least twice a week. The activities in the music are varied. Such things as movement to music, singing, playing mallet instruments, playing recorders starting in the 3rd grade, playing musical games, body percussion, reading and writing notes and many other activities that encourage children to develop their latent musical skills. The Music Department also sponsors a volunteer chorus of 5th graders. They practice twice a week and present one or two programs a year, with their program being done in May. Professional musicians, such as the Nashville Chamber Orchestra, The Nashville Opera Association, and many others, have been invited to come and demonstrate their talents and entertain the students. Many times the music curriculum is combined with another department, such as the Physical Education Department, to incorporate movement activities with music.

The curriculum of the music department follows very closely the National Standards of Music Education, The State Guideline of Music Education as well as the Orff-Schulwerk philosophy mentioned above. Every effort is being made to have as comprehensive a music department as possible. Above all, music will be fun.

  4907 Bethesda Road  ●  Thompson Station, TN  37179  ● 615-472-4200