Pocahontas Music's Pilot Program in Hillsboro, WV introduced Hillsboro Elementary School's third grade students to the wonderful world of music through the piano keyboard, multimedia learning tools and exposure to other musicians.
On Guest Days, musicians from around the community visited the school, allowing students to experience a wide variety of musical instruments and styles. During Music Appreciation classes, students listened to music while they drew or danced in response. Through learning websites and other multimedia presentations, the students explored the basics of music theory and musical expression through art.
The Pilot Program began in February 2007, concluding in May of that year with a concert of "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" in various arrangements, accompanied by a variety of local musicians, and covered by local newspapers, radio and television stations.
The efforts and success of the Pilot Program even came to the attention of West Virginia's Governor Joe Manchin, III. He awarded Certificates of Recognition to Lucinda Tyler, Program Coordinator; Pam McCurdy, Hillsboro's third grade teacher; and Lois Airgood, the Program's music instructor.
