We are the World

This week, classes in grades 2-5 have enjoyed seeing video from the old and new versions of We are the World. Written 25 years ago to raise money for famine relief in Africa, Michael Jackson and Lionel Ritchie created a classic. After the devastating earthquake in Haiti, many superstars of today came together to re-create the magical moment in hopes of raising money for Haitian victims.

Enjoy the videos! What do you notice about the old and new versions? What are the differences and similaries? What has changed in the music after 25 years?

Mrs. Melkonian

Original "We are the World" Africa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2W4-0qUdHY

2010 "We are the World" Haiti

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Glny4jSciVI

More Field Trips!

Our students were fortunate enough to have two music field trips this week!

Friday, January 29, 2010

Thanks to a fantastic organization called the Great Lakes Caravan, our Fifth Grade Students got to be a part of an interactive performance by the Carpe Diem String Quartet. From Columbus, Ohio, Carpe Diem is a world class quartet that performs in a surprising variety of styles and genres. All Fifth Graders walked to the High School black box theatre to hear them, ask questions and interact. We heard classical, jazz, blues, a composition written by the violist and even the theme from the Simpsons. Fifth grade students, what was your favorite part of the performance?

Monday, February 1, 2010

All second through fifth graders took the long bus trip to Ann Arbor to see the legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo perform at Hill Auditorium. From South Africa, this powerful acapella singing group has been in existence for over 50 years. They were brought into the international spotlight through Paul Simon's "Graceland" album and continue to travel around the world today. Though I didn't get to go along, I have been enjoying hearing students' reactions and reflections on the music. I have included some Ladysmith Black Mambazo songs on the side bar. Enjoy!