DRP_FINAL_Oct16

IN PERSON LEARNING: MUSIC EDUCATION

Music Education in the Darien Public Schools is delivered using a comprehensive standards-based program of sequential musical study that delivers quality music education services to all students. The Connecticut Arts Administrators Association released guidelines to assist Districts with modifying and enhancing Arts education to ensure that all students have the opportunities to enhance creativity and acquire the music and social skills that are so vital to a well-rounded education. In accordance with these guidelines, standards-based music learning will be maintained as authentically as possible within health and safety protocols. Technology will be integrated into live teaching models to accom- modate potential hybrid and remote instruction. In the event that live concerts are not possible, students will share their music learning in other ways, such as through pre-recorded, live streamed and digital performances. Elementary General Music classes will meet in dedicated spaces that are large and open enough to observe safe physical distancing, such as the cafeteria or common room if the music room is not available. Outdoor spaces may be utilized in good weather for some activities. Music learning activities that allow students to maintain social distancing and masking protocols will be the focus of instruction. Shared equipment will be limited to those items that can be disinfected between classes. Choir classes at the secondary level will continue to meet, and until more data is available to determine if indoor group singing is safe, choir students will participate in musical activities that do not require live group singing, such as music literacy activities, guided listening, composition, individual recording and assessment, and digital rehearsals and performances. The results from the COVID-19 aerosol study specific to group singing are expected soon and guidelines for choir will be updated. Data suggests that singing outdoors is safest. Weather permitting, small groups of singers can rehearse outdoors. Specific distancing and masking guidelines will be updated when additional data are available. Elementary instrumental instruction will occur in small group lessons. Secondary band and orchestra students will be scheduled to meet in class period sections with students spaced 6 ft apart. Students will remain masked when entering and exiting the room, getting equipment, and while speaking. String and per- cussion students will stay masked throughout rehearsal. Wind players will remain masked when they are not playing, and may pull their mask down only when they are playing. There will be no sharing of sheet music, instruments or equipment in band or orchestra. Percussionists will have their own sticks and mallets.

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