March is a special month for music education as it signifies the commencement of Music In Our Schools Month (MIOSM). This is an occasion where districts throughout the United States highlight the contributions of music education in their schools. For over 30 years, the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) has formally designated March as MIOSM to raise awareness about the importance of music education for all children. The observance provides music teachers with an opportunity to exhibit the benefits of their programs to the school and community, and promote the value of high-quality music education.

Coincidentally, MIOSM aligns perfectly with Opus 88, the School of Music’s initiative to actively participate in all 88 counties of Ohio, whether it is in performing centers, libraries, or public schools.

As part of our effort, six percussion majors ranging from freshmen to doctoral levels, our percussion professor Dr. Susan Powell, Tanya Sparks, and I recently visited South Gallia Middle School during their Right to Read Week. We were warmly welcomed by the teachers there, particularly Mrs. Angela Cremeens, who was a gracious host.

Located in the heart of Appalachia in Gallia County, along the Ohio River, and neighboring Point Pleasant, West Virginia, the school’s stunning and winding trek set us up for an enriching day at the school. It was an incredible opportunity for us to engage with the students and teachers at South Gallia Middle School. We were thrilled to share our experiences and learn from the students’ engagement, questions, and enthusiasm. We are looking forward to future engagements across our state very soon!

As May arrives, we say farewell to spring and welcome the warmth and excitement of summer. The School of Music is not exempt from this seasonal change, as the Ohioan wild daffodils outside of Weigel 110 make way for the blooming of other flowers. As April is a period of heightened musical activity with a flurry of concerts and recitals taking place in our performance spaces, May provides a brief respite before the summer programming kicks off.

The transition from spring to summer is a time of renewal and growth, both in nature and in music. Just as the world around us experiences a surge of new life and energy, music has the power to refresh our minds and lift our spirits, providing a sense of newness and rejuvenation.

Spring and music are also associated with change and evolution. Spring is a period of transformation, with growth and change visible everywhere. Similarly, music inspires us to explore new ideas and try new things, encouraging personal growth and expanding horizons. As we move from spring to summer, let us continue to embrace the spirit of growth and change that both the season and music bring.

Finally, rhythm serves as another link between spring and music. The world comes alive in spring with movement and energy, and music has the power to move us both physically and emotionally. With its strong sense of rhythm and beat, music can inspire us to express ourselves in new and exciting ways, whether it’s through dancing or simply tapping our feet to a catchy tune. So as we say goodbye to spring and welcome summer, let us allow the rhythms of music to continue to inspire and uplift us in the coming months.