DERRY — It's music to their ears.
For students at Gilbert H. Hood Middle School, making music together in the band keeps everyone on track and in tune with each other.
Picking up a brass horn or saxophone every week doesn't just keep jazz band students in check when it comes to their musical skills — playing together and learning to perform can mean great rewards in many other facets of life.
Being able to make up some smooth riffs along the way as a personal improvisational style gives students points in not only the musical game, but in many areas of school life.
Hood band director Emily Johnson brought members of the school's jazz band to a School Board meeting last month to show off their skills and to let school officials know there is more to music than just learning the finger placement on a flute.
The sounds ring much deeper.
"There are many benefits to studying music," Johnson said.
Those benefits can mean increased self-esteem, a sense of belonging and making new friends.
For Johnson, getting her students to learn to play their instrument of choice not only gives them valuable skills as an artist, but also engages both sides of the brain, leading to success in reading, thinking, solving problems, and getting along with others.
"This is multi-tasking," she said.
She pushes students to become confident enough for improvisation, or making up small solos within a song, for added benefits.
Johnson did her master's degree work on the effects of music on students. As she researched her thesis, she discovered much data on how music can help improve student test scores and enhance performance in other areas.
"It has positive academic effects on students," she said.
Eighth-grader Brenna Whitney is a high honors student and loves everything about music.
She said having band first period starts her day off perfectly.
"I play the clarinet in jazz band and bass clarinet in concert band," she said. "Jazz band is fun also because we play cool songs like 'Sing, Sing, Sing.'"
That particular Benny Goodman classic was on the hit parade during the School Board meeting as students put their improv talents to work.
It takes nerve to stand up and shine in the solo spotlight.
Destiny Chase said being in the band gives her confidence.
"Nothing can compare with the feeling of sharing your work with others," she said. "It's an instant confidence boost."
School Board member Mark Beland said he is impressed with the level of musical ability the students show.
"As a former band parent, I can never say enough about how good these kids sound every year," he said.
Johnson said she would be happy to accept any donations of trumpets, trombones, clarinets and flutes.
"I guarantee there would be a student in our district that would make good use out of that instrument," she said.
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