Baldwin school district music education honored for a seventh year in a row

For the seventh consecutive year, Baldwin Union Free School District (UFSD) has been honored with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation for the district’s commitment to music education. Awarded by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation (NAMM), a nonprofit of approximately 10,300 members around the world and currently is in its 23rd year. The designation given to the district is awarded to those that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Baldwin UFSD answered comprehensive questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

“This recognition captures the spirit of our teachers, hard work of our students and the pride of our community support in the performing arts. The seventh year in a row means a lot to our program and we are excited about the future,” stated André Poprilo, director of fine and performing arts for the district.   

Baldwin schools’ music program begins at the elementary level, where students participate in small group lessons on band and orchestral instruments. Baldwin Middle School students take music classes, perform in grade-level concerts, and play in musical groups, including chorus, band, orchestra, jazz ensemble, marching band, and drumming club and a musical production.

By high school, students have their choice of three graduated bands, two graduated orchestras, and two choirs, not including the extracurricular activities, such as the jazz band and a musical production. The musical capstone ensembles include Wind Symphony, Chamber Orchestra, and Concert Choir, which perform repertoire at NYSSMA levels V through VI.   

The NAMM Foundation advances active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.