Amador County – The Rancho Arroyo Seco development has donated funds to support the music program at the Ione Elementary School. A favorite of students and teachers, the program serves all students in grades 1-5 with weekly classroom instruction in music theory and appreciation. The program was in jeopardy of being cancelled due to lack of funding, but the donation has enabled it to continue through this school year. The program is taught by music instructors Michelle Hansen and Melissa Johnson. Students are introduced to the Kodaly method of music theory that includes pitch and rhythm as well as composing, singing and improvising. They express this learning with instruments such as rhythm sticks, cymbals and tambourine. This is the second school year that the program has been in place. School Principal Laurie Amick summed it up, saying, “Students need the arts such as music to discover and expand their world and enhance their ability to learn and express. As a former music teacher, I am very pleased this program is part of our student’s curriculum.” Rancho Arroyo Seco managing partner Bill Bunce and ranch manager Tom Swett attended a music session in Mrs. Edward’s second grade classroom last week. “It is such a pleasure to see first hand, students so engaged and enjoying this worthwhile program.” said Bunce. The students in Mrs. Edward’s classroom presented Bunce and Swett with a personal thank you note on chart paper and signed by each student. He continued, “Rancho Arroyo Seco is very pleased to be able to contribute to this program, and to see the results of that effort touching so many students.” For more information on this program, contact Ione Elementary School. Staff Report This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.