In This Month’s Newsletter

The Joys and Benefits of Music Ensembles for Children and Youth in School
Fun and Important Dates
Upcoming Recitals and Concerts
Welcome Our New Students
Student of the Month
Did You Know?
Music Playdates in the Parks
Join Choir! CM Prep!
Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?
Referral Program

The Joys and Benefits of Music Ensembles for Children and Youth in School

Participation in music ensembles such as bands, orchestras, jazz bands, choirs, and various other groupings offers immense benefits and joy to children and youth in school. These ensembles provide a unique platform for students to express themselves, develop their musical skills, and foster personal growth.

School bands and orchestras are fundamental components of music education programs, offering students the opportunity to learn and perform a wide range of musical genres and styles. In a band setting, students can choose from a variety of instruments such as flutes, clarinets, trumpets, trombones, saxophones, and percussion. Orchestras add string instruments like violins, violas, cellos, and basses to the mix. These ensembles teach students the importance of teamwork, as each member must work in harmony to create a cohesive performance. For example, a high school symphonic band might prepare for a regional competition, requiring hours of practice and collaboration, fostering a strong sense of community and shared purpose among its members.

Jazz bands offer a different musical experience, focusing on improvisation, swing, and syncopation. Students in jazz bands learn to perform music that is both structured and flexible, allowing for creative expression within a group setting. The improvisational nature of jazz encourages students to develop their individual musical voice while also listening and responding to their fellow musicians. This environment nurtures creativity and confidence, as students must be ready to take solos and lead sections of the music spontaneously. For instance, a middle school jazz band might perform at a local jazz festival, giving students a chance to showcase their improvisational skills and enjoy the thrill of live performance.

Choirs bring students together to sing in harmony, often performing a diverse repertoire that spans various cultures and historical periods.

Singing in a choir helps students develop their vocal skills, improve their ear for pitch, and enhance their ability to blend their voices with others.

Choirs also provide an emotional outlet, as singing has been shown to release endorphins and reduce stress. Additionally, the collaborative nature of choral singing fosters a sense of unity and belonging. A school choir might perform at a holiday concert, creating lasting memories and a sense of accomplishment for all involved.

Chamber ensembles, such as string quartets, woodwind quintets, and brass ensembles, offer students the chance to engage in more intimate musical settings.

These small groups require a high level of individual responsibility and communication, as each player typically has a unique part to perform.

This setting allows for in-depth exploration of musical pieces and close-knit teamwork.

For example, a high school string quartet might prepare for a recital, honing their skills in interpretation and ensemble playing, while developing strong interpersonal bonds.

Marching bands and drumlines combine music with physical movement, adding an extra layer of complexity and excitement to the ensemble experience.

Students in these groups must coordinate their playing with intricate marching patterns and formations, often performing at sporting events and parades.

The physical aspect of marching bands and drumlines promotes fitness and discipline, while the public performances build school spirit and community pride.

A high school marching band might prepare for a halftime show, working tirelessly to perfect both their music and their drill routines.

Participation in music ensembles provides numerous benefits beyond musical skills. It enhances cognitive abilities, as learning and performing music involves complex mental processes related to memory, attention, and spatial reasoning. Studies have shown that students involved in music education often perform better academically and have higher IQ scores. Music ensembles also teach valuable life skills such as discipline, time management, and perseverance. Students learn the importance of regular practice, setting and achieving goals, and working persistently to overcome challenges.

Moreover, music ensembles foster social and emotional development. They provide a supportive environment where students can build friendships, develop empathy, and learn to collaborate effectively. The shared experiences of rehearsals, performances, and competitions create strong bonds and a sense of belonging. Music ensembles also offer a constructive outlet for emotions, helping students manage stress and anxiety. The joy of making music together can boost mood and overall well-being, contributing to a positive school experience.

Participation in music ensembles such as bands, orchestras, jazz bands, choirs, chamber groups, and marching bands offers a wealth of benefits to children and youth in school. These ensembles provide opportunities for musical growth, cognitive development, and the acquisition of valuable life skills. They foster social connections, emotional well-being, and a sense of community.

By engaging in music ensembles, students not only become better musicians but also well-rounded individuals equipped with the skills and experiences that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Investing in music education and supporting school music programs is essential for nurturing the potential and enriching the lives of young people.

FUN and IMPORTANT DATES

Labor Day, Monday, September 2
(We are Open! Lessons are on!)
Halloween Recital, Saturday, October 26
Halloween, Thursday, October 31
Off -week October 26-November 1

Upcoming Recitals and Concerts

Concert Performance Team

Sunday, September 15, 2:30 pm

Trabuco Hills Post-Acute

Lake Forest

MTAC Community Recital

Sunday, October 6, 2:00 pm

Laguna Hills Community Center

Studio Halloween Recital

Saturday, October 26

Shepherd of the Hills UMC

Mission Viejo

Please welcome

our NEW Students who enrolled

in July

Kayla A.

Mason A.

Jade B.

Ella B.

Kasra D.

Poppy G.

Peter H.

Bryce H.

Lana K.

Brandon K.

Sebastian M.

Brody P.

Talya R.

Emilia T.

Student of the Month

Jocelyn Romero

Jocelyn loves to sing, act, and make music! She has been acting since she was 12, started taking vocal music lessons in 2020, and piano lessons for two months! Jocelyn says she loves the way performing "transports you to a world only you know... It is the most magical experience being in a room full of people, embracing the story you are telling, and feeling them all take it in!" Jocelyn's theatrical roles include Zubaida in The Laramie Project, Aubrey in the short film HousePlant, Jenny's Mom in Miss Independent, and Juror #6 in 12 Angry Jurors.

Jocelyn takes pride in navigating her life on her own and "making plans on how to achieve these big dreams I have." She has been going to Saddleback College and working, and now has started college at CSU Long Beach to obtain a degree in Performance in Voice and Acting. "I decided that now was the right time because I spent the last 5 years with my favorite music teacher, Dr. Dennis, and favorite acting mentor, Bill Mcguire at Saddleback College, working on perfecting my craft. These two teachers were the support system I needed to believe in myself and bring me here. They did not just teach me how to sing or act. They handed me the tools I needed to find my voice and confidence that one day just brought the artist out in me."

Jocelyn currently works at Marriott Newport Coast Villas and loves to travel, including as part of her job. She enjoys music festivals, hiking, and plans to soon visit the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. Jocelyn loves learning and experiencing life and sharing it with those around her. "Sharing the happiness I have found within myself through my music, craft, and life with others will always fill me with gratitude."

Did You Know?

We Teach Many Instruments!

We proudly offer the highest quality, healthy, and rewarding music lessons in piano, voice/singing, guitar (acoustic, electric, and bass), ukulele, drums & percussion, strings (violin, viola, cello), wind and reed instruments (clarinet, flute, saxophone, recorder), brass instruments (trumpet, trombone, tuba/euphonium, French horn), and a few instruments you might not expect, such as mandolin and banjo! We also teach early childhood music, musical theater, acting, and voice over! And, music theory (classical and jazz), music composition, and songwriting! And choir!

Inspirations

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

— Galatians 6:9

“September, with its crisp air and falling leaves, serves as a gentle reminder to let go of what no longer serves us. It presents an opportunity to embrace change in our own lives.”

— Jeanne Willis

Music Playdates in the Parks

Laguna Niguel and surrounding areas.

Weekly playdates on Wednesday and Saturday

mornings from 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Meet friends, dance a little, sing along, play with some musical instruments,

and other fun toys!

Find us near the playground.

Join Choir!

Saturdays in Laguna Niguel

1:00p (ages 8-12)

2:30p (ages 13-17)

CM Prep!

Tuesdays at 6:15p

Register Now!

Did You Read Your Newsletter Contest?

September 2024

To encourage everyone to read the Dennis Frayne Music Studio Newsletter, each month we’ll feature a new contest winner or a new contest. Be sure to read your newsletter each month to see if your name has been drawn or you might miss out!

This month’s winner is Milan Munoz