At Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School, the music technology class is revolutionizing how students engage with music. By blending traditional music education with modern technology, students are preparing for the ever-evolving music industry.
The class covers four key areas: composition, performance, engineering, and production. Project-based learning is emphasized, so students show their understanding through hands-on projects. Positive feedback is integral, creating a safe space for giving and receiving feedback.
Additionally, industry professionals are invited to give master classes on topics like music business and sync licensing. Students engage in projects such as remixing, writing original music, and creating music for multimedia.
A notable collaboration between the visual arts and music technology students resulted in the production of songs for visual art pieces. This culminated in a gallery exhibition where visitors could scan QR codes to listen to the music while admiring the artwork, creating an immersive experience.
Sophia Levy, who joined Colgan in 2023, teaches the class. Her teaching journey began in 2011 with the founding of Sophia Music Studio in Woodbridge, where she taught piano, voice, songwriting, and stage performance. Before teaching, Levy had a diverse career as a songwriter, recording artist, actress, and music producer. This includes writing and producing music for a kids' show in Singapore, creating songs for TV, film, and independent releases, and producing an Indonesian-language album for a major label. Additionally, she created music for ABC, NBC, and Bravo networks.
When asked what the key lessons students should learn through music, Levy stated, “I believe in the power of music-making as a fun and healthy activity that connects the mind, soul, and other people. It’s all about grasping the intricate connections within music and enjoying the rewarding outcomes.”
Currently, music tech students are working on a movie soundtrack project, creating all the audio components for a chosen movie scene. The project is broken down into three phases: monologue/dialogue/narration, sound FX/foley/ambiance/sound design, and music/score. This hands-on experience helps students bring a scene to life with their soundscapes.
“Music education in PWCS is a fantastic creative outlet that fosters great friendships, as I see in our music technology program every day. But the benefits go way beyond just creativity and camaraderie. Learning music enhances cognitive abilities, improves memory, and boosts critical thinking skills. Plus, it’s a fun way to learn how to use technology creatively, which is valuable in today's digital world,” said Levy.
The most rewarding part of Levy’s job is seeing her students succeed in every project they undertake. “Watching them grow as they become better at producing, writing, and performing is incredibly fulfilling,” shared Levy. “Their efforts to make music and promote themselves in the real world are truly inspiring. I am proud of them for believing in their music and pursuing their dreams.”
During Music in Our Schools month, PWCS celebrates the dedication of both students and teachers. Their collaborative efforts and passion for music are shaping the next generation of musicians. This month is a testament to the power of music education and the incredible impact it has on personal and academic growth. By fostering creativity, and teamwork, music education in PWCS is preparing students for a successful and thriving future.