Musical Guests visit the 2nd Grade

The last few weeks have been filled with fun and adventures for the second-grade boys; one such educational diversion was a week of guest presentations. To illustrate our weekly class theme: “Music”, we welcomed a few musical guests. On Monday, Dr. Andrew Childs came and brought with him a few music samples to listen to. He explained how music can appeal to the deepest parts of the human heart, mind and body. How beautiful music soothes and elevates our mind, first and foremost, through the melody. How it stirs our hearts through its harmony and finally how our lower senses are attracted to the rhythm. And these three parts, when properly distributed, bring calm and order and elevate us.

The next day came Mr. Shaw, who leads the band and also teaches here at the Academy. The boys were excited with his demonstrations, particularly with the euphonium, which resonated loudly in the classroom. Renditions of both fun music – such as melodies from Star Wars – and emotional, uplifting music from Ireland showed the boys two sides of music and the advantages of learning to play an instrument.

To bring the musical week to a close, Father Franks brought a guitar to the classroom and the students enthusiastically sang with him. He even demonstrated ten different variations on “The Ants Go Marching One by One” while they sang!

Thus, the weeks follow weeks here at the Academy, but there is never a dull moment. Whether in class or getting an exciting break from classroom lessons, memories are made, friendships are built and a wholesome, complete education forms the young man who will hopefully look back with longing on his years at his Alma Mater.

~ Mrs. Maradona, Second Grade teacher