A partnership between Seattle Public Schools and SYSO, the Musical Pathways Project provides support in select public-school orchestra classrooms. The Musical Pathways Project creates a continuum of instrumental music education through neighborhood school pathways, by continuing to strengthen enrollment from elementary to middle to high school music programs.
Currently focused on supporting the Southeast Seattle musical pathway, SYSO teaching artists work collaboratively with classroom music teachers and support students through co-teaching, private and small-group instruction, repertoire selection, string instrument-specific support, professional development, and inventory upkeep.
SYSO provides these services to schools at no charge.
Program Highlights:
- Coaching provided by professional musicians hired by SYSO to enable differentiated instruction for instrumental music students, in partnership with existing SPS teachers.
- Coaches advise orchestra teachers on instructional techniques and repertoire selection as needed, and engage in teaching demonstrations and collaborative teaching practices.
- SYSO coaches lead two Cadenza Afterschool Orchestra Clubs, strengthening retention and excitement for students to continue from elementary to middle school orchestra programs.
Program Benefits:
- Coaches build relationships with students, and long term mentoring relationships form.
- Increased student diversity with public school instrumental music education.
- Music ensembles can be welcoming communities for young people that help students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
