Performing Arts
Music and dance are fundamentally holistic and are a foundation for children's cognitive development.
They provide a unique means for processing information and for expression, enhancing learning in areas such as language acquisition and mathematical reasoning.
Our curriculum integrates four major components: rhythm, movement, music theory and singing. We emphasize a strong foundation in music theory and the importance of building a common cultural language based on music and movement. Students learn Irish dance, Brazilian drumming and multicultural songs. This immersion helps develop their appreciation for other musical forms and cultural expressions. Curriculum components are taught collaboratively by the faculty.
Music-making, by definition, is interactive. As students work together, they collaborate and explore ways to create meaningful musical expressions of culture and ideas.
Community Engagement
Performance is a natural outcome and demonstration of classroom skill development and an occasion for students to experience the purpose of music and dance in our lives.
When students perform, the learning process is brought full circle as students experience the immediate synergy between performers and audience. All students have the opportunity to perform at venues throughout our community, such as Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Parkland College, community events, area schools and assisted living facilities.
Ms. Leila Ramagopal, founder of the Performing Arts program, leads the NGS Harp and Violin Ensemble and Irish Dancers. The harpists are part of the Roselyn Rensch Chapter of the American Harp Society and have the opportunity to perform with other community and University of Illinois harpists.
Ms. Roselle Bhosale leads the NGS Vocal Ensemble. The ensemble released its first CD, "Next Generation around the World" in October 2008. Student vocalists enjoyed preparing and recording their second CD, to be released in fall 2009.
Mr. Chad Dunn is the founder/director of Recycled Rhythms, a Brazilian-influenced musical group that promotes resource conservation and educates about Afro-Brazilian instruments and music-making. Mr. Dunn has incorporated the principles of Recycled Rhythms into our curriculum. For more information about Recycled Rhythms and Mr. Dunn's other musical projects, please see his website: www.chaddunn.com.
Private Music Lessons
Ms. Roselle Bhosale: voice and piano
Mr. Chad Dunn: percussion, ukulele
Ms. Leila Ramagopal and Ms. Johanna Mueller : Suzuki- certified violin and viola teachers
Ms. Leila Ramagopal: harp
Our student musicians are welcome to participate in the NGS Brass and Woodwind Ensemble.
All non-faculty instructors who contract with the school are accomplished musicians who have experience teaching younger students. Lessons are given at the school. For more information, please contact Ms. Leila Ramagopal at (217) 356-6995.
Music instruction is currently available for: clarinet, flute, French horn, guitar, oboe, piano and saxophone.
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