Music & the Arts
MSAB offers music classes/services to students in group and individual settings based on student needs. During sessions music is used as a tool to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Music helps to develop skills including body awareness, gross and fine motor skills, spatial concepts, communication/speech development, and social interaction. Students have the opportunity to participate through creating/improvising, singing, musical movement, listening to musical styles, exploration of sensory and musical objects and playing various instruments. Music classes often integrate with the core classroom teachers as well as other support services to facilitate students’ achievement of their IEP goals.
All students have the opportunity to participate in all-school performances including Holiday Concerts and a Spring Program. In preparation for the performances students work on learning new songs with simple two part harmonies, following rhythmic patterns with instruments and hands, simple choreography, line memorization and team work.
MSAB participates in Artist in Residency programs which exposes students to the world of the creative arts including music programs, writing, performing arts and visual and tactual arts. Students receive hands on experience through workshop opportunities with visiting artists throughout the year.
MSAB also has an evening choir program that dorm students are encouraged to participate in. The choir performs at a variety of venues including local long-term care facilities, concerts, and graduation ceremonies.
