Electronic Music Lab Introduced at Briarcliff MS

A revamped program at Briarcliff Middle School will help blend the deep-seated music program with modern advancements in technology.

"The Exploring Music program will be re-designed to enhance music skills through hands-on activities including piano performance and electronic music composition," according to a statement from the Briarcliff Manor Education Foundation (BMEF). "Performing arts students may complement instruction by recording and playing back music or exploring roots of composition."

The BMEF announced the intiative, along with the $76,000 "electronic music lab" that it funded, at its annual fundraiser at Trump National Golf Club Friday night.

"The strategic initiative is global in nature and supports 21st century skills and the district’s goal of exceptional education," said co-presidents Liz Susman Karp and Maura Bohan.

The BMEF awards grants on an annual basis in all three of the district's schools. Last year, the organization for the coming year, including comparison microscopes at Briarcliff High School.

Briarcliff Middle School Principal Susan Howard said today's students are embracing technology outside the classroom and the new lab will help them to do so in school as well.

"Ask any middle school student what they are interested in, and chances are they will show you some electronic device that carries their music," she said. "Music and technology are high on the list of things that drive our students, so I am delighted that the electronic music lab will become a reality. I see it as a current and engaging method to deepen their understanding, appreciation, connection and interaction with music in all genres."

Said Bohan and Susman Karp, "We’re thrilled to bring the lab to the middle school and to develop similar initiatives with the elementary and high schools."