Performing Arts

Choir

Being in choir allows RMS students the opportunity to connect with their friends while learning a lifelong skill. “Choir is a place where we celebrate each other's differences and everyone is welcome to be themselves,” explained choir director Eugene Sandel. “Additionally, choir allows you to be expressive in an entirely unique way and helps you build community and find good people to surround yourself with.”

Middle school choir is different from music in elementary school mainly because students are focusing on a specific type of music making — choral singing. In addition to singing, students write their own songs, have karaoke days, learn various instruments, and invite other teachers to hear them sing. 

Sixth grader Anni, who is in the choir as well as the band, says that she loves having the opportunity to learn new songs.

Middle school choir is a great starting place where students can grow their voice, and can lead to bigger music opportunities in the future. For example, last year, two eighth graders were accepted into the Honors Performance Series, and one of them was able to travel to New York City and sing in Carnegie Hall! 

“My favorite part about teaching choir is the joy students bring me every day,” said Tr. Eugene. “Because my class is one where we are doing a different type of learning, students bring a different part of themselves to my room. I am constantly laughing at fun and silly things they say, and always reminded of the joy that comes with music.

Band

Joining one of the RMS bands is a great way for students to make friends and learn an important skill they can use for life. In band, students learn to play instruments, make their own music, play together as a group, try out different instruments, and even show off their talents to other teachers. Being in the RMS band is a solid start for students who want to get better at playing music and prepare for the many musical opportunities available at Richfield High School, including jazz band, percussion studio, Spartan band, the Marching Spartans and more.

“My favorite part about band is learning more about music and playing fun songs,” said seventh grader Oliver. “I'm looking forward to jazz band in high school.”

Mr. Corey Needleman enjoys teaching band and sharing music with students in all grades. He is looking forward to an upcoming field trip to the Minnesota Opera with the Intermediate and Advanced Bands, as well as their upcoming performances.