Welcome to C.P. Smith Music
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Welcome to the C.P. Smith Music Room!
I believe that every child is musical, and that music is something we are meant to experience, create, share, and enjoy together.
In our music classes, students learn much more than how to sing a song or play an instrument. We learn how music works, explore music from different cultures and traditions, create and improvise, move to music, perform, listen deeply, and discover our own musical voices. Most importantly, students learn that their ideas and contributions matter.
Our music program serves all of the students at C.P. Smith, giving children opportunities to love music, make music, and connect music to their lives and to one another. Music provides a wonderful space for students to practice collaboration, creativity, confidence, empathy, perseverance, and self-expression.
I also believe strongly in place-based learning. Our music-making is connected to the people, places, stories, and environment that surround us here in Burlington and Vermont. When possible, we take our learning beyond the music room and make connections with our school community, our neighborhood, our local environment, and the wider world. This reflects C.P. Smith's broader commitment to learning through authentic experiences and connections to our community.
Most of all, I want students to leave the music room thinking:
“I can make music.”
“I have something to contribute.”
“Music is part of my life.”
Whether we are singing, playing instruments, composing, dancing, listening, performing, or simply discovering a new sound, my goal is to create a music classroom where every child feels welcome, capable, creative, and connected.
Come make some music with us!
Be Kind!
Be a Good Listener!
Learn a Lot! & HAVE FUN!!
— David Nacmanie
Music Teacher, C.P. Smith Elementary School