Chris is starting his 10th year teaching music by joining the team at Mater Academy Davenport as they launch a new middle school. Chris is building a brand new music program while teaching Music Theory and Theatre/Production. Classes focus on core music knowledge and skills, learning how to play instruments and read music, keyboarding, singing, music/video recording and production, and theatre arts.
In the past, I've used the music curriculum of Quaver Music for grades K-5. Also, I've created original music lessons for grades 6-8 that focus on literacy and writing by evaluating song lyrics and writing new lyrics. QuaverMusic.com offers an amazing and thorough curriculum that meets and exceeds Florida educational standards. It is highly engaging and uses cutting-edge technology that supports multi-sensory learning. The instructional design is highly developed and it connects with all students.
On December 24, 2021, I released my first original Christmas song, "Christmas Bells (It's Christmas Time)" and it was performed and recorded by teachers and students at P.M. Wells Charter Academy (PMWCA). Our song was released worldwide on many streaming platforms, but can also be found here on SoundCloud.
SoundTrap.com is also a tool for creating music. During 2019-2021, I taught Middle School students how to write, record, and produce music using the latest online technology. I released an album of original student music using loops and personal recording techniques in May 2021. Click Here to Learn More.
Garageband for iOS is a tool for creating music. Experimentation and collaboration create project-based learning tools for all students. In 2018, I produced two albums of instrumental loop-based student compositions. These were released on various online music services. Students created amazing compositions in class and we celebrated each student's creativity. Click Here to Learn More.
Beyond using modern technology, I've taught students how to play instruments in class, including the recorder. We've learned about the history of the recorder, how to read music in the treble clef, and basic recorder techniques. We also performed at school events throughout the year.
I have held holiday concerts and various performances using vocal groups and various instrumental groups, including bucket drumming ensembles. I regularly supported grade-level assemblies and school-wide special events serving as a sound engineer and media specialist. It brings me joy to help children discover and develop their musical gifts and present these talents to be enjoyed and celebrated by everyone.
