Parents Shelly Demers, Lisa Badcock, Michelle Wagner and Tami Maillet recently joined DRES music teacher Mary Walker-Hope, second from right, in promoting the upcoming release of the school’s music CD “Our Pretty Planet.” All students in the school appear on the CD, being sold to help raise funds for music program equipment.
N.Kelly
Students like sound of their own music
BY NANCY KELLY
Kings County Register
Students at Dwight Ross Elementary School (DRES) in Greenwood have recorded a CD to raise awareness of their environment and raise funds for their music program.
Music teacher Mary Walker-Hope has been working with students from pre-primary to Grade 5 to produce the “Our Pretty Planet” compilation of 15 songs. Recorded during music classes on her computer, Walker-Hope says the CD is a great keepsake.
“Making the CD has been so much fun,” said Walker-Hope. “When we started recording, the kids kept asking to hear themselves and, the first time they heard their own voices, their eyes were wide with excitement.”
Using “Garage Band” software to make the CD, Walker-Hope says she was very pleased with the audio quality.
All selections on the CD have a message about appreciating and taking care of the environment. “Where is the Answer,” an original composition by DRES teacher Iren Hgelkrem, was performed by students in Grades 3 and 4.
The official launch of the CD is May 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the school. Copies can be pre-ordered for $5 each and will be available at the launch for $6. Proceeds go towards the purchase of a new school PA system and other music program equipment.
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