Music Instinct

Community involvement is synonymous to WCNY's vision and mission. This past fall, WCNY partnered with Clary Middle School in Syracuse on a project called "The Music Instinct." WCNY supported the science and music afterschool program through a grant from New York City's WNET 13. According to Clary Middle School music specialist Michael Hook, the students were introduced to the concepts of sound production and the ways different instruments produce sound.

"Clary Middle School students and staff are extremely excited to have the opportunity to work with WCNY," said Pamela Odom, Clary Middle School principal. "This project gives students who participate in the afterschool program an opportunity to research musical instruments, songs, and different types of music, while reinforcing English Language Arts and mathematical skills."

Through the "Music Instinct" grant WCNY provided funding for supplies which allowed the students to make eco-friendly instruments out of ordinary items. Students hit the drawing board and designed their own instruments after weeks of hands-on learning. In January, WCNY took over 60 Clary Middle School students to the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST). There, project participants showcased their construction blueprints and homemade instruments. Students performed with their instruments and had the opportunity to view a short version of the PBS documentary, "The Music Instinct."

"The after school program offers our students the chance to combine their knowledge of music and technology classes to create a unique musical instrument that will open the minds of not only the students who are in the program but also the public who will be offered the opportunity to see and hear the instruments," said Fred Seeburger, Clary Middle School team teacher and technology educator.

A special thanks to the MOST President, Larry Leatherman, for graciously accommodating the middle school students. The "Music Instinct" project is a win for everyone and music to our ears.

Home-Made Instrument

Make your own home-made instrument at home. Here is an example of one of the innovative instruments made at Clary Middle School through the Music Instinct grant. Try it yourself and have fun.

A Film by Elena Mannes