Hicksville Recognized For Top Music Program

The National Association of Music Merchants and the University of Kansas have named the Hicksville Public School District a 2017 Best Community for Music Education. This prestigious distinction is earned by school districts that exhibit outstanding efforts and commitment toward maintaining music education as part of the schools’ core curriculum, and excel in their instruction of music and extensive array of programs.

“To be recognized once again with this honor truly is a testament to the dedication of our music students and their teachers,” said Chad Wyman, Hicksville High School coordinator of music and drama, and band director. “This is a community-based distinction, awarded to districts with music programs that mirror the support our outstanding students receive at home. We cannot give enough thanks for the hours, and in many cases the years, of efforts that their parents put in to allow their children to work toward performing at the highest level.”

This year, 77 Hicksville music students were selected to participate in the Nassau Music Educators Association’s All-County Music ensembles, and an additional 10 students were selected to participate in the Long Island String Music Festival select ensembles and concerts.

The district’s music curriculum emphasizes the development of aesthetic sensitivity, self-expression, teamwork and creativity through the examination and experience of this performing art. Listening skills, instrumental instruction, choral singing and performance are all part of a rich and varied music program. General music instruction begins in kindergarten. In third grade, students have the opportunity to begin studying a string instrument and participating in chorus. Starting in fourth grade, students may study a band instrument. A wide range of courses in music is available to secondary school students, including band, orchestra, chorus, piano, music theory and survey of fine arts.

Extensive extracurricular activities at the secondary level support the music program, including string ensemble, jazz ensemble, marching band as well as the annual Broadway Musical play. One unit of study in the arts is required in order to earn a high school Regents Diploma; however, many district students go well beyond and participate in music ensembles and classes throughout their four years in high school. Through the district’s Arts in Education program, professional artists in the fields of art, music, drama and dance visit the schools throughout the district to work with students and help them to understand the nature of their art form. Regular annual performances include at least two school concerts each year for all musical ensembles, plus the annual district concerts for the band, orchestra and chorus programs. Broadway musicals are also produced annually at both the middle school and high school. Hicksville schools are also known for their outstanding marching band program, which has won awards at the state and regional levels for many years.
Hicksville students continue to cherish and benefit from the wide range of opportunities afforded them by the district’s robust music program.

“Music is the melodious sound you hear and enjoy,” said sophomore Simran Kohli. “Having been given the privilege to be a part of a group of talented musicians, the Hicksville High School music program has shaped me into a finer violinist; I wouldn’t be where I am [without it].”

“Being a student in Hicksville’s music program has been a huge part of my life,” said sophomore Meghan Goparaju. “Music has always been something I love, and our music program has allowed me to advance in what I have a passion for. Ever since I became a student in Hicksville’s music program, I was always motivated to continue to be a part of it, and will continue to be a part of it until I graduate.”

“Being a part of the Hicksville music program means so much to me,” said junior Samantha Melish. “Going into this program has been one of the best decisions I have made, and it has made such an impact on my life. It has shown me how inspiring music can be, and I have been inspired to continue to study music in college for a future career.”

Story by Syntax, Patch photo