The Berlin Community School has been recognized for the fourth consecutive year as one of the Best Communities for Music Education through the NAMM Foundation.
“This recognition reflects the continued support of our administration, staff, families and the broader community, all of whom play a vital role in sustaining and growing our music program,” said Tim Trout, director of instrumental music at the school since 2021.
Trout currently teaches 120 instrumentalists in fourth to eighth grade. The jazz band is open to sixth, seventh and eighth graders by audition.
“This has been an exciting and active year for our students,” he enthused.
Trout and Anne Kessler, who leads the vocal and theater program, established the school’s music honor society to provide students with opportunities for leadership and service through music.
The “exciting and active” schedule has been packed. The jazz band performed at the school’s Halloween parade, the Marie Fleche Memorial Library open house during the town’s tree lighting at the municipal building and at Tullia’s Restaurant in West Berlin, according to Trout.
The band will also attend the High Note Festival at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom this month.
The band and choir program continues to be actively involved in the community, from performing at Berlin’s 4th of July parade and at the BCS Veterans Day luncheon. The concert schedule was in full swing at the school’s winter instrumental and choral concert; spring will feature a band performance.
The music program will also be represented at this year’s theater production of “Frozen,” which will be held early next month in the old gym at BCS. Performances are 6 p.m. on June 4 and 5 and 2 and 5 p.m. on June 6.
The band program also features a pops band camp every July so students get another opportunity to stay engaged with music over the summer.
The district has recognized Trout and Kessler on its social media page.
“This achievement reflects the strength of our community and our dedication to providing meaningful opportunities for every student,” the post stated. “A heartfelt thank you to our exceptional music educators, Ms. Kessler and Mr. Trout, whose passion and leadership bring music to life each day, and to our students, who continue to inspire us with their creativity and talent.”
Now in its 27th year, the Best Communities for Music Education Award recognizes schools and districts nationwide for their leadership in expanding equitable access to music education.
The NAMM Foundation’s mission is to invest in the future of music and supports teachers, parents and community with resources and programs to advance music, according to its website.
Berlin Community School’s jazz band performed at Tullia’s Restaurant in West Berlin in March.
The winter choral concert was one of many performances this year at Berlin Community School.
