Aside from learning the mandated English, Filipino and Chinese songs, learners from Grade 3 up start to learn playing musical instruments.
Aside from learning the mandated English, Filipino and Chinese songs, learners from Grade 3 up start to learn playing musical instruments.
Grades 3 and 4 learn the recorder;
Grades 5 and 6 play the harmonica;
First Year students learn the lyre;
Second and Third year students learn the guitar; and by
special arrangement, violin and keyboard lessons are also available.
One year after the implementation of ISA music program, we are able to form a mini ‘ISA Orchestra. It is an ensemble of instruments used in the classroom.
ISA Orchestra had its maiden performance during the ISA Foundation Anniversary on October 1, 2005. the Chinese New Year Celebration gave the members another opportunity to perform better and show to the public what they have got.
The Orchestra started from a small group of less than 50 members. Now it reaches up to 80 performers. It is composed of Grade 3 to 2nd Year H.S. learners plus one grade 2 and one kinder 1 learners. It takes great effort, let alone big risk, to train such a big group who are all beginners.
And the repertoire is quite complicated. For months, learners had to stay after the class review to hone their skills in different musical instruments. For the whole week before January 31, every morning and afternoon learners and facilitators would practice under the heat of the sun.
The effort was not put into waste after all; it is worth all the hassle and hardship. Feedback after the Chinese New Year performance was encouraging. Many people conveyed their appreciation and amazement of the members splendid show. It was indeed a very unique presentation.
Go the distance, ISAers! We know, weve just started the long journey to excellence.