John Walling
Music Educator
Music Classes
In my current school placement we use a Kodály-inspired approach to music education in which students learn developmentally-appropriate musical skills in a highly sequential manner. Students will sing, dance, compose, listen, learn to read music, and play instruments as they progress from Kindergarten through 5th grade. See each class page for more details.
I am currently in the process of completing Graduate Teaching program in Music Education
As a part of my teaching program I am a teacher candidate at Ainsworth Elementary School. I am working with a great elementary school music teacher, Maya Gascoyne. She is trained in the Kodály method of music education for young learners. Ms. Gascoyne has a very strong choral background and is a supportive and enthusiastic teacher. In addition to general music K - 5th grade we have a 2nd and 3rd grade choir, a 4th and 5th grade choir and 4th and 5th grade bands. Returning and new 5th grade band has about 18 members and the 4th grade beginners number 80 plus members.
PRIVATE INSTRUMENT INSTRUCTION
As a band teacher over the last 20 years, I also teach private Music lessons on wind and string instruments. I teach out of my home studio and can do individual and group lessons.
Please let me know if you are interested in private lessons.
OTHER PLACES TO PLAY AND LEARN INSTRUMENTS
Portland has a number of fine musical organizations to help young student shape their music education.
Check out Portland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Metropolitan Youth Symphony and Portland Youth Philharmonic.