December 18, 2013 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 5 Allendale Brookside Middle School rocks new guitar program Thanks to the generosity of the Brook- side/Hillside Music & Arts Association, which funded the purchase of 25 steel-string acoustic guitars, all students in the choral program at Brookside Middle School have the chance to learn to play the guitar. The idea for the guitar program was presented by Brian Princing, the choral director at Brookside for the past 13 years. An accomplished guitarist and performer, Princing is currently pursuing a master’s degree in jazz guitar performance, and he is grateful that BHMAA has enabled him to have this opportunity to share his pas- sion for the guitar with all of his students in grades four through eight. “The students have been more excited than usual to come to music class since the guitar program got off the ground,” Princ- ing said. Class begins by having each of the stu- dents select a guitar, which are hanging from hooks on the walls located around the classroom. Princing then proceeds to teach the class different notes and chords utiliz- ing the Smart Board, which shows the notes and the correct positioning of the hands in a diagram. He also demonstrates proper technique on his own guitar from the front of the room. During a recent class, Princ- ing demonstrated that he is very patient as he goes around the room listening closely Above: Mr. Princing listening to each individual student play. Far left: Mr. Princing demon- strating a chord from the front of the classroom. Left: Guitars on their hanging racks. as each child strums the chord, correct- ing those that are not quite right. He also accompanies the students on guitar and piano, and sings along. “The guitar program is a huge hit with the students,” said Brookside School Prin- cipal Bruce Winkelstein acknowledged. “Students are not only engaged in singing, but they are learning how to read music, how to accompany singing, and also to play one of the most popular instruments. “Mr. Princing is not only teaching guitar, but is also teaching problem solving and perseverance in accomplishing tasks. It’s a phenomenal program and opportunity for our students.” Recent studies have shown that playing a musical instrument can increase memory, teach perseverance, enhance coordination, foster self-expression, improve mathemati- cal ability, relieve stress, and create a sense of achievement.