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Three years ago, East Islip High School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society piloted the Practice Buddy program, which connected high school music students with elementary instrumentalists as their “Practice Buddies.” Since then, students have continued to meet for weekly video chats and to work on the fundamentals of playing their instruments. The high schoolers listen, demonstrate on their own instruments and provide feedback on everything from posture and instrument setup to intonation and rhythm. Elementary orchestra and band teachers Jaimie DeMaria, Lynda Maniscalco, Chris Robertson and Angela Stewart provided the high school musicians with the materials they needed and ensured that the program was a complete success.

“Our high school students really enjoy the chance to connect with East Islip’s young musicians,” orchestra director Giovanna Ruggiero said.

Date Added: 6/13/2023