SchoolBand’s fundamental mission is to reach as many people as possible to practice and learn music, seeking to contribute to their comprehensive training through art, regardless of their cultural and socioeconomic origins. As the teaching of the various musical instruments – whose provision is guaranteed by Grupetto – is conducted in collective and cooperative sessions where all participants learn and play together, this practice involves continuous team work.
The project is an integral part of the curriculum, inserted in the area of expressions. Developed with the aim of promoting specific skills, creativity and artistic expression in students, this project is aligned with the pedagogical objectives established for this learning area.
The methodology to be used and which gives the name to the project – Schoolband – is characterized by permanently taking place in cooperative and collective dynamics. Based on the Classband method, widely applied internationally, our methodology is the result of several years of experimentation in the specific context of Portuguese schools, being the culmination of several adaptive processes that are best suited to achieving the stipulated objectives.
The musical instruments we teach are from the wind family: flute, saxophone, clarinet, trumpet, French horn, trombone, bombardino and tuba. As they require a close connection between hearing, breathing and motor skills, these instruments imply the development of very complete cognitive processes, which cultivate complex proprioceptivity along a rapid evolution curve.
Step by step, participants evolve and become aware of their capabilities and the potential of the musical instrument that they explore from session to session. We found that this dynamic brings participants closer together, improving interpersonal relationships by facilitating communication between peers and fostering a group spirit and mutual help.
Financed by PNPSE – Programa Nacional de Promoção do Sucesso Escolar (2020/2022).
At present, School Band is included in the Express’Arte project by Valongo City Council and the Ermesinde School Group.
Engaging and inspiring primary school students through the ‘School Band’s’ project
The innovative ‘School Band’ method has been transforming music education in schools in disadvantaged socioeconomic contexts. This study analyzes the impact of introducing this method into the school curriculum of children aged 8 to 12, exploring the benefits on their academic and personal development. The results are clear: student motivation and engagement are high, reinforcing the importance of music as an educational and inclusive tool. However, the study also highlights challenges, such as the resistance of some teachers and the logistical difficulties imposed by the pandemic. Want to know more about how music can change lives? Read the full article!
