North Valley Music School has partnered with Lark Skola, a nonprofit independent elementary school, to bring music education to young residents of Whitefish, Montana.

The two schools are committed to education and positive community experiences. Students from Lark Skola learn about music and what makes a community by participating in music classes at NVMS once a week.

As part of Lark Skola’s curriculum, mixed-age groups enjoy classroom activities, community projects, and nature immersions, as well as 1-on-1 sessions with learning specialists.

While at North Valley Music School, the students participate in an hour-long group music class taught by Miss Deidre. Through songs, games, and musical fun, they learn about the elements of music including, melody, harmony, rhythm, tone, and tempo. Miss Deidre also introduced many instruments to the little learners including violin, flute, ukulele, drums, piano, and even some brass!

Then, once back at the school (or outside on the NVMS lawn), the students process what they learned by building physical recreations of the physical school and discussing how a community works together to make things possible.

Through collaboration, reciprocation, and learning, the Lark Skola and NVMS want to help students build connections in town so students feel responsible for their purpose and place.

“North Valley Music School is YOUR community nonprofit music school,” says Executive Director Deidre Corson. “We want everyone to feel invited, welcomed, and encouraged on their musical journey. Everyone should benefit from the joy of music and have a safe and supported place to explore and play. The Lark Skola learners are so excited, curious, and full of life. We have enjoyed our time with them very much. A big thank you goes out to the Angora Ridge Foundation for making this collaboration possible.”

To learn more about the Lark Skola, please visit their website at www.larkskola.org. To sign up for music lessons or a summer music camp, please visit www.northvalleymusicschool.org