Ensuring the social, emotional, and intellectual benefits of music for all students
Our Mission
Our mission as a parent organization is to support the music program for all of Ridgefield Public Schools and to assist the directors in any way we can to keep music thriving. Read below about some of our wonderful programs, and the ways our organization contributes.
Ridgefield Music Mentors
This is a new program we are offering that began as an idea created by some high school students. It is currently only available to orchestra students. We seek to help middle and elementary school students as coaches for what they are working on in school, and to serve as role models, inspiration, and provide a sense of connection in a time when COVID-19 makes human interaction more difficult. Mentors will do their best to help young musicians become a thriving part of their school's music program and help them achieve their individual goals in the context of their ensembles as a whole. Mentors receive training and guidance from the music directors. Read more about the program here.
Elementary School
The seeds of music are planted during Elementary School, with general music classes for every student and opportunities to engage in ensemble music through chorus, recorder, orchestra, and band.
Middle School
In Middle School, there are more opportunities to further grow as a musician through classes embedded in the academic day: music elements, chorus, orchestra, and band. Additionally, there are opportunities to be a part of award-winning extracurricular ensembles.
High School
High School students mature as accomplished musicians, experiencing the joys of making professional-level music through the orchestras, bands, and choirs.
Post-Ridgefield
Ridgefield students have gone on to study at prestigious music schools such as Juilliard, Berklee, University of Wisconsin, and Northwestern University. In addition, graduates have formed successful music groups such as the Funky Dawgz Brass Band, which has opened for notable players like Trombone Shorty.
Testimonials
“The RHS music program really motivated me to pursue music as a profession/career path instead of just a hobby. Being introduced to other students in the same class who valued music at the same level as me made me realize how much I cared and needed music in my life. I always looked up to my music teachers and band directors as I was growing up. Now, whenever I am in a position to positively affect and motivate young musicians to learn, grow, and develop their skills and knowledge I think back to when I was of that age and am always hopeful that I can have the same effect on those students that my music teachers had on me.”
-Tommy Weeks of the Funky Dawgz
“The RHS music program is unique in that not only does it allow students to challenge their musical abilities, it also provides a multitude of opportunities for students to take on leadership roles and responsibilities that remain critical both personally and professionally as they move forward as adults. […] Mr. Mac challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and take on leadership roles that ranged from helping with administrative tasks to leading sectionals to sometimes even conducting entire orchestra classes. I’ll admit I was not prepared, and sometimes I wasn’t happy about being pushed to lead, but those leadership experiences have shaped every decision I have made since graduating in 2016. […] I can say with absolute certainty that were it not for the leadership opportunities afforded me by the RHS music program I would not be the person I am today.”
-Emily Kerr, RHS Graduate