Reed Musicians Have Made

Great Progress

To the Editor:

I attended one of the fifth grade band concerts at Reed Intermediate School. While I remember being very impressed with the progress they had made in the Winter Concert, I was simply amazed at the caliber of music they were able to perform at this spring concert, only nine months after they first began.

I am an amateur musician myself, and I know exactly what goes into pulling this off. The music staff at Reed are to be commended for the talent they are able to develop within these students. What a wonderful gift they are giving to these kids.

And what a wonderful gift the town of Newtown is giving to these kids! I would like to thank the Board of Education, and all those people in Newtown who make this program and all other music programs possible. With the current budgetary struggles we face, this is yet another testimony to the fact that giving kids the gift of music is priceless. Having talents and skills our students work for and can be proud of is a part of what develops character.

I began my instrument in fourth grade through my school’s program. I have enjoyed many years of band, orchestra, and solo performances. And for those who do not go on to further pursue their instrument, they have still learned to listen and appreciate the music all around them that much more.

Sincerely,

Audrey Greenwood

7 Susan Lane, Newtown                                               June 8, 2006