Hi Everyone! Mr. Kevin here!
I am so excited to be the clarinet instructor here at Arts and Athletics. Some of the greatest joys of my life have come from teaching music, because learning an instrument helps a student add so many tools to their tools box: discipline, consistency, courage, teamwork, perseverance, resilience, deep listening and patience. My teaching philosophy is a people centered approach that places an emphasis on mastering fundamentals of instrumental technique, but also understanding their personality and interests to keep them engaged. Each lesson is tailored specifically to each student to help them realize their highest potential as artists and citizens.
4th Grade Clarinet Class:
Since October 2023, I have been the 4th grade daytime trumpet teacher at PS 9. We study the foundational elements of clarinet playing, and take a dive into playing many genres of music such as classical, movie favorites, swing, blues, Reggae and more. The completion of this class opens avenues for students to participate in the 5th grade Wind Ensemble, Advanced Clarinet, various small group ensembles and many performances.
Advanced Clarinet:
This fall, I will be directing the very first Advanced Clarinet Class in the Arts and Athletics After School Program at PS 9. This course is designed for young musicians who have a basic understanding of clarinet playing and have taken my 4th grade trumpet class last school year.
Students will explore advanced musical pieces, learn about complex rhythms, and develop their improvisation skills. I’ll be providing personalized guidance, ensuring each student reaches their full potential. Advanced Clarinet students will have several performance opportunities throughout the cycle to showcase their talents and growth. Join us for a fun and challenging musical journey that will inspire and elevate your clarinet playing!
Please note eligible students should have already attended my class last school year.
Study Time Jam:
Traditional clarinet classes can be fast paced as we prepare for concerts/performances and keep momentum high for fun learning. However, it is also important for students to slow down and absorb information. Study Time Jam was created so students can have practice time. Whether it’s for upcoming rehearsals, performances, or practicing their own material. It is also the space for more peer-to-peer collaboration. This encourages students to learn from each other just as much as they learn from the teachers. Study Time jam provides easy access to clarinets, especially for those who don’t own one at home. Study Time Jam is proctored by myself and other Arts and Athletics Music faculty memebers. All students that are enrolled in Arts and Athletics Afterschool Program and are taking at least one of my clarinet classes are invited to join us in 2nd session Study Time Jam Monday-Friday, at no extra charge!
Music Lessons Clarinet:
As mentioned above, I hold a strong philosophy is creating a people centered approach to my curriculum. This philosophy is best practiced in private lessons, where I can personalize the goals for each student. I can focus on students strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. Private lessons will not only help growth and development, but also instill a sense of responsibility and discipline with their individual practice time. If you are interested in signing your child up for lessons, feel free to contact info@artsandathletics.org to sign up.
Summer 2025:
This summer we will be continuing our summer instrumental music camp, running for eight weeks from July 1 to August 23, from 9 to 5. Each day students will have two 2.5 hour blocks of music. More details coming soon!
The 4th Grade Concert–A Resounding Success!
On May 22nd this past school year, the 4th grader clarinetists at PS 9 demonstrated the amazing progress they’ve made on their instruments in just a few short months. They faced and overcame a number of challenges, such as having just one 40-minute period per week of instruction and most not having instruments at home to practice on between class meetings.
Symphony No.5 as played by class 4-234