Baldwin schools receive music award

Posted

The Baldwin School District has recently received the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for its commitment to music education. 

The Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and access to music education. The award program recognizes outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education. 

“This recognition is special because it helps validate the hard work of students, dedication and creativity of teachers, support of administrators and the leadership of our superintendent and board members,” André Poprilo, director of fine and performing arts for the district, said. “We have built a tradition of excellence in Baldwin, and we are honored to continue these efforts in the arts.”

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, the district answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities and support for the music programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute.

The Baldwin school district’s comprehensive music program begins at the elementary level, where students participate in small group lessons on band and orchestral instruments. Baldwin Middle School students take music classes, perform in grade-level concerts and play in musical groups, including chorus, band, orchestra, jazz ensemble, marching band and drumming club. 

By high school, students have their choice of three graduated bands, two graduated orchestras and two choirs, not including the extracurricular activities such as the jazz band. The musical capstone ensembles include Wind Symphony, Chamber Orchestra and Concert Choir, which perform repertoire at NYSSMA levels IV through VI.  

For more information about the districts’ award-winning music program, including recent accolades, visit the Fine and Performing Arts section of the Baldwin school district website.