ETM-LA traveled around the globe through its 12th AnnualMusic Unites the World Festival on May 13 &14, exploring diverse musical cultures like taiko drumming with TAIKOPROJECT (The Music Center) and African percussion with Arthur Thompson (Dave Koz). Student ensembles proudly presented music from Brazil, Panama, France, & other countries. Guest stars included Tails from Sonic the Hedgehog, who gave guidance and encouragement to the music students and helped bring joy and connection.
This year's 12th Annual Songwriting Competition winning song, "It Starts With You" (Music by Chris Artley; Lyrics by Michelanne Forster) asserts that unity begins by being open - calling our best selves to lead the way. The festival's four student essay winners also personally shared how the power of music has helped them grow and connect, especially through these challenging times.
If you missed the live premiere, watch the amazing student performances, award-winning essays, and guest artists activities!
Disney's Encanto Composer Germaine Franco sends a heartfelt CONGRATULATIONS to Music Students!
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is nationally recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. Education Through Music-LA wants to help break the stigma of addressing mental health. We believe music has a powerful way to affect change in the mind and body.
When students in our community learn and experience music, it gives them an outlet to help manage their emotions, find calm and joy, and express themselves.
“I want people to know, if you’re going through something in life, if there is something you can do with music, do it. It helps a lot with your mental health and what you’re going through.”
- ETM-LA 7th Grader, McKinley K-8 School of Integrated Arts
Spotlight on Ricardo Hurtado,
Music Teacher & Therapy Specialist
ETM-LA Music Teacher & Therapy Specialist Ricardo Hurtadoshares the impact of teaching music, music education's role in mental health, Music Therapy, and more!
"[As] educators, it is our duty to become aware and committed to implementing teaching strategies that will help students be in a safe, nourishing, and inclusive environment while they are in our classrooms."
Follow along in this engaging music activity. Identify feelings by drawing to music.
Mindful Music Warm-Up:
"Tuning In"
ETM-LA Music Teacher & Instructional Supervisor Abigail Barrett shares resources and a detailed mindful music warm-up. that teachers and parents can try with their students.
"I had an 'Aha!' moment. Rather than meeting their energy, focus it; bring their tired minds into a mindful space..."
"During May, NAMI joins the national movement to raise awareness about mental health. Each year we fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families..." Read More
"The Child Mind Institute has prepared free trauma resources to aid parents, educators, and other adults in talking to children and adolescents about potentially traumatic events..."Read More
"Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears..."Read More
"School-based support and increased understanding are essential when a student experiences the death of a friend or loved one...There are some strategies that can be helpful in supporting bereaved students."Read More
Learn about different ways to support music education in state and federal education policy and how to get involved with the legislative process.Read More
THANK YOU for helping to further equity and access for all children.
promote music as part of a well-rounded education for every child in under-resourced schools in order to enhance students' academic achievement, creativity, and overall development.
A contribution of any size makes a huge impact. ETM-LA invites you to explore more ways to give or get involved so that thousands of Los Angeles students don't miss a beat and can continue to thrive through music!
