Students in the music program at MCS Jr./Sr. High School are taking an innovative approach to learning, combining performance techniques with new strategies to build confidence and teamwork. Teacher and advisor Sarah Tomic helps students acquire a variety of skills.
“I help students work through reading and interpreting their music during band and lessons,” Tomic said. “It’s important to select music that everyone can be successful at for each concert. I also work with students on strategies to overcome performance anxiety so they can have a fun concert.”
While most musicians are familiar with performance anxiety, MCS students are encouraged to understand it and learn coping strategies.
“The overall most challenging part of preparing for a concert is definitely calming yourself down,” said junior Sophia P. “Just thinking about being in front of people is scary, especially if you’ve never done it before. It is nerve-wracking your first time being on stage 100%, but once you do it, it is incredibly worth it.”
Bandmate Ev K. pointed out how important it is for each individual musician to find balance within the group.
“When preparing for a concert, you really have to think about how your part and instrument fit into the whole piece and what purpose it serves,” he said. “Whether it’s the melody, harmonies, or the backbone, every player and every section of the band has a role that is essential to the piece.”
Students are also benefiting from a willingness to try new things. This year, that included a visit to a local yoga studio at the start of this school year for members of the Modern Band.
The trip to Rooted Movement Studio was the result of a brainstorming session last year. Members of Modern Band were looking for ways to connect with one another as a prelude to becoming an ensemble. Teacher Sarah Tomic knew the musicians would also benefit from relaxation techniques to help conquer performance jitters.
“My hope with the trip to Rooted Movement was that students would learn different strategies to put in their social and emotional learning ‘toolbox’ that they can use to cope with stresses in their life and performance anxiety,” stated Tomic. “After taking that day for team-building, we are closer as a class. We got to know each other, chat about life, make friendship bracelets, and more, and that has helped as we prepare the music for upcoming performances.”
Hours of lessons, individual practice, and group rehearsals are just part of the commitment students make when they join the music program. In addition, students perform at school events and in public throughout the year. Already this year, students have performed at the Middleburgh Fall Festival and the Halloween parade at the elementary school.
While performing live can be a little stressful, it can also be exhilarating.
“My personal favorite part about performing in a concert is the feeling of pride I feel for not only my peers but myself as well,” said Sophia. “The almost euphoric feeling of being on stage is liberating, and doing it with not only the most kind, tight-knit community–people who you can call family.”
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