We are the World

This week, classes in grades 2-5 have enjoyed seeing video from the old and new versions of We are the World. Written 25 years ago to raise money for famine relief in Africa, Michael Jackson and Lionel Ritchie created a classic. After the devastating earthquake in Haiti, many superstars of today came together to re-create the magical moment in hopes of raising money for Haitian victims.

Enjoy the videos! What do you notice about the old and new versions? What are the differences and similaries? What has changed in the music after 25 years?

Mrs. Melkonian

Original "We are the World" Africa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2W4-0qUdHY

2010 "We are the World" Haiti

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Glny4jSciVI

5th Grade Field Trip

Last Friday, January 29, 2010

Thanks to a fantastic organization called the Great Lakes Caravan, our Fifth Grade Students got to be a part of an interactive performance by the Carpe Diem String Quartet. From Columbus, Ohio, Carpe Diem is a world class quartet that performs in a surprising variety of styles and genres. All Fifth Graders walked to the High School black box theatre to hear them, ask questions and interact. We heard classical, jazz, blues, a composition written by the violist and even the theme from the Simpsons. Fifth grade students, what was your favorite part of the performance?

Mrs. Melkonian

Take Time In Life

I have really enjoyed listening to my students in grades 3, 4 and 5, sing one of my favorite songs this week, "Take Time In Life." This song is a West African song from the country of Liberia and has a positive message for us all. Our students have stated what is means to them to "Take Time in Life" and I hope they are able to share the song with their families and friends. Many classes have asked to perform it for their teachers, and of course I always love when students want to share and show off their beautiful music!

Can you sing this song for someone at home?

I was passing by, somebody called to me

And they said to me, "you better take time in life."

Better take time in life,

Better take time in life,

Better take time in life,

'Cause you've got far way to go.

Beatlemania!

Ms. Simon and Mr. Hatt's fifth grade classes have been listening to and learning about songs from the Beatles. We began with the first #1 USA hit, "I want to Hold you Hand" and have been listening to some highlights of this amazing band's career. I am energized each time I come into class by hearing the inquisitive questions presented and facts discovered by curious students learning at home. What is your favorite Beatles' song so far? What unique gift do you think this band has given to the musical world? Keep listening...and I'll see you next week.
Love, Ms. Melkonian