MAKING MUSIC WITH KID PAN ALLEY
During late April and early May, our three fifth-grade classes met virtually with Paul and Cheryl Reisler, founding musicians of the Kid Pan Alley organization. During these special sessions, each class composed a song and their songs were performed during a Zoom concert on Thursday, May 11 at 7 p.m. All students and their families were invited to watch and participate as Paul and Cheryl performed the student-composed songs.
This is the third time since 2016 that Saint Mary’s students have been able to work with Kid Pan Alley thanks to grants from the Virginia Commission for the Arts. Each opportunity has given students a chance to be an active participant in the songwriting process — exposing them to what that looks and sounds like.
“The Kid Pan Alley songwriting workshop was a wonderful experience with fifth grade classes each writing their own unique songs,” said SMCS Music Teacher Mrs. Moretti. “The songs ranged in topic from love to growing older to summer plans at the beach. We are so blessed to be at a school that embraces creativity in our children.”
Kid Pan Alley ‘s mission is to inspire creativity, build confidence and foster community among children of all ages through the group songwriting process. KPA’s vision is to help children develop their skills of creativity and collaboration so they can build the future that they hope to see.
