The Keys to Success: The Notes of JHS Piano Class
By: Milly Deyoe
Walking into the music building, you would expect every classroom to be filled with sound, but one is different. In one classroom you’ll be met with 24 students playing instruments silently. Each one is a piano student. Immersed in their own musical world with a keyboard each, they play into their headphones diligently.
When the assistant principals approached Julie Hester with the idea of starting a piano class, she was all about it. It began as a precursor class to AP Music Theory and has grown into a popular class with more than 75 students involved. Not only does it count for a fine arts credit, but it also allows students to be involved in the music department without a major time or financial commitment.
AP Music Theory student warms up with the instruction of Ms. Hester.
“Piano class has been a fun new experience I’ve started. Piano is way harder to learn but it's way more rewarding,” Alexander Schultz said.
Schultz also plays the guitar outside of school but piano is brand new to him. He joined the class because he saw the piano lab last year and was intrigued. Between learning new songs every week and learning the theory behind it, he’s already seen growth. He plans to keep playing the piano and is considering a music minor in the future.
“I’ve gained a better understanding of music and Mrs. Hester is definitely putting in 110 every single day,” he said.
With years of experience, Julie Hester leads the class with a lively spirit. Upon a lifetime of piano knowledge, she also taught choir and show choir for many years at Jenks. Hester uses a mix of music theory curriculum with a fast-paced piano book to teach her students. Since the class is only a semester-long, it is important that the students learn all they can in this short period of time.
“I just try to meet the students where they’re at,” Hester said.
With the vast number of students she teaches, each has a different level of expertise. Some have been playing piano their entire life and some haven’t even touched a piano. Hester tailors her teaching to make sure each student is understanding and that the more experienced students are getting the freedom to work on their own pieces, while still practicing the in-class lessons. This is part of the reason this class is so special, anyone can take it!
Ms. Hester's piano set up with the teacher accompaniment book, ready to lead the class.
“I think everybody needs to know how to play the piano,” said Hester.
At the end of the semester, each student picks a piece of music to perform for their class. This acts as their final and also a celebration of their success as musicians.
When playing the piano both sides of the brain are being used. This improves cognitive development which enhances memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. It also teaches confidence and allows students to take pride in their new ability to play an instrument.
The class has more than doubled in size since last year and interest in the class is still growing. Hester has proposed a piano 2 class where students continue their education in piano for another semester. This class would end in a recital in the PAC on the grand Steinway. Admin is still in the approval process for this class and it could be seen in the elective choices in Fall of 2024.
