Knoch students mix music, science
JEFFERSON TWP — Music isn't considered just an art form anymore.
At least, not in the STEM music classes offered to seventh- and eighth-graders at Knoch Middle School. The new music classes include aspects of STEM: science, technology, engineering and math.
In a newly constructed music technology lab made up of microphones, headphones, keyboard players and computers equipped with special composing and editing software, nearly 75 students split into three classes learn the fundamentals of composing and editing their own digital music projects.
From day to day, “they're writing music, recording music and mixing music,” said Brent Russell, who teaches the STEM music class.
Over the course of the semester, students become familiar with Finale, a music composing program, and Mixcraft, a music recording and editing program. They learn about copyright laws, making their own music and about career potential in the industry.
“There's more than just performance and teaching,” Russell said. “There's a lot that you can do.”
Producing music and films is another option. It's a career that both Allison Alwin and Alex Jaksec, both 13 and in seventh grade, said they would consider.
“This class is really fun,” Alex said.
“It's exciting and interesting,” said Allison, chiming in with her friend and lab partner.
The classes are at capacity this semester and will likely continue to be popular in the next school year. Not only is the elective class enjoyable for students, but it also utilizes STEM in a number of ways, Russell said.
When it comes to science, students are learning the differences in sound waves and wavelengths.
The technology implementation is obvious, but in addition to learning the computer programs, they implement music technology, and how to use Cloud and Dropbox file-sharing services.
Students engineer or create their own projects, which include podcasts, sound-effect loop compositions and dubbing voices over videos.
Math is reinforced with the basic knowledge of music theory, Russell said.
The class allows for students to bring in their own devices to use in class, including smart phones and tablets, furthering their education through other apps and using their own music.
“A lot of these kids are teaching me stuff, honestly,” Russell said.
Other music electives offered to Knoch Middle School students include world percussion class and a survey of music history class.
