Students and families at Ward Elementary School received a warm welcome to the 2024-25 school year from the Winston-Salem Symphony on Monday morning.
As students arrived on campus and headed off to class for the first time this year, they were greeted by the soothing sounds of violin and cello filling the hallways. A trio from the symphony’s Piedmont Learning Academy for Youth (P.L.A.Y.) performed several pieces live and were also available to answer questions for students interested in the instruments. Classical music will be a key part of the arts curriculum at Ward this year, and live music as soon as you walked through the door was a perfect way to set the tone for what’s ahead.
“It gives kids exposure to classical music, and it also gives them a different vibe from what they’re used to,” said Music Teacher Ariel Barker, a classical musician herself. “Not a lot of elementary schools are going to be playing classical music right when you walk through the door.”
P.L.A.Y. has been active at Ward for several years. All second and third grade students at the school have been receiving music lessons from the academy, and this year, fourth grade students will have the chance to participate in an after-school P.L.A.Y. club. P.L.A.Y. musicians are looking forward to passing on their passion to another new generation of music lovers this year, and showing off their skills on the first day of school was an exciting way to get started.
“It’s invigorating seeing the kids and the way they’re bringing life back into the school today,” said Rachel Watson, the Vice President of Education and Engagement for the Winston-Salem Symphony. “Music has a way of getting everyone started on a positive note.”
For educators at Ward, it’s important to begin the school year with as much enthusiasm as possible so that scholars can begin their classes with a learning-ready mindset. Based on all the smiling faces that showed up bright and early on Monday morning, they’re well set up for another great year of learning.
“We’re just excited to be back,” said Principal Colin Tribby. “The kids bring so much energy to our daily lives. The first day of school is like Christmas for us.”