(Beginning Band, Chorus, Orchestra)
Music is an important component of a well-rounded education, as defined by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). During the COVID-19 pandemic, students should continue to learn and master the same standards, although the method might need to be temporarily adjusted. Music remains integral to the intellectual and artistic growth of students, as well as imperative to their Social Emotional Learning.
If the Fall semester results in blended instruction or in-person with restrictions:
Balance student class numbers to available square feet per guidelines from the Georgia Department of Public Health.
Allow for active recruitment and addition of students throughout year
Avoid sharing equipment unless equipment can be properly sanitized between use by multiple students.
Follow scientific recommendations for singing and playing instruments indoors (studies in progress – data expected July 2020). If recommendations necessitate mitigation strategies, consider:
Slower process of instrument selection during the first semester, or delay until later in the year
Temporarily offer more flexibility and choice in the initial instrument selection process, with individual adjustments throughout year
Teaching basic music skills to align with reading and writing pitches; performing, reading, and writing rhythms; creating music through alternative methods; music vocabulary and symbol recognition
Assigning days for smaller ensembles to bring equipment and work on instrument fundamentals and small ensembles with flexible instrumentation
If the Fall semester results in virtual learning (online)
Issue music and resources to students for learning at home
Schedule online classes to provide instruction on basic skills and knowledge of the instrument(s), musical works and fundamentals assigned and provided, composition, theory, music history, and SEL