+ How might MM fit into my existing curriculum?

Though its exact implementation varies from classroom to classroom, MM is a fully developed standalone curriculum that meets the NYC Blueprints for Teaching and Learning in the Arts standards. Additionally, the material includes valuable components to aid in differentiating instruction for a wide variety of students, including a Spanish language component. The MM curriculum is available in a classroom-ready packet that will take your class from September through May and can work as a supplement to an existing music curriculum or function as the school’s primary music curriculum. Teachers are encouraged to discuss the particulars of implementation with their principals.

+ Is there a deadline for registration?

There is no formal deadline, but we strongly encourage teachers to introduce the program at the beginning of the school year, as the curriculum is paced with the academic calendar.

+ What resources are required to participate in MM?

Schools are required to purchase a Music Memory curriculum packet, available from Mighty Music Publishing for $75. More elaborate packets with additional materials are also available for $135, but the basic $75 packet is all that is necessary. Please note that Mighty Music Publishing is an approved NYC vendor (Mollie Gregory Tower, LLC / Mighty Music Publishing, code: MOL082701).

+ Do I need special certification to teach MM?

No special certification is required as long as you are certified to teach grades 3–6 in New York public schools.

+ Are teachers required to attend the Professional Development Workshops?

No, but attendance is free and strongly encouraged, especially for teachers who are new to the program. The Professional Development Workshops are CTLE-certified and accredited by the New York Department of Education, and participants are awarded a certificate for having attended.

+ How do the Citywide Finals relate to MM in the classroom?

The Citywide Finals functions as the culminating experience for the MM curriculum and provides your students a chance to showcase the musical skills they have developed over the school year. Each team of students has the opportunity to collaborate with their peers, working together towards a common goal and exercising their communication skills. Alongside actively participating teams, student audience members can quietly play along and enjoy the excitement and immediacy of the live concert setting. Students and teachers alike have consistently found this live-orchestra event both fun and enriching.

+ Is participation in the Citywide Finals required for all schools using the curriculum?

Participation is optional but encouraged, as students reap the reward of a memorable experience, emblematic of experiential learning’s most treasured virtues. Moreover, because the Citywide Finals provide a unique opportunity to excel in a friendly competitive environment before schoolmates and family, the event is widely viewed as key to both focus and motivation throughout the school year.

+ We don't have any 6th graders... is it OK to send a team of only 5th graders?

Yes; schools may send any combination of grade levels from 3rd through 6th.

+ How do I sign up for the Citywide Finals??

The Citywide Finals has a separate sign-up cycle that is announced in the spring. Every March, all participating schools are emailed an invitation to participate in the Citywide Finals.