Springer Music Students Explore Band

Posted Date: 09/17/26 (05:07 PM)

A graphic illustration of a vibrant red feather against a solid black background.

Springer Music Department Introduces Students To The World Of Instrumental Music

A music instructor guides a student playing the clarinet at a grey table in a brightly lit room.

The Springer Music Department, in partnership with Mr. Chauvin Aaron, recently hosted an Instrument Petting Zoo. This event served as a springboard for the beginning band program, providing students with an opportunity to explore the world of instrumental music alongside professional musicians and educators from across the area. Students in grades fourth through twelfth had the opportunity to experiment with flute, saxophone, clarinet, trombone, trumpet, and baritone. Using a criteria sheet, participating music professionals observed students as they explored the instruments and helped identify which instruments appeared to be a natural fit for each student. As students rotated through stations, they were taught basic things like embouchure and posture.

The Instrument Petting Zoo event was designed to introduce students to another side of music and expand the opportunities available through the Springer Music Program. While the program has experienced significant success in vocal music, instrumental music offers its own unique educational, creative, and personal benefits. The director at Springer, Lucy Hicks, teaches PreK - 5th grade general music and 4th - 12th grade vocal music, and her program goal is to provide the tools students need to discover where their own interests and musical talents may lead.

“Every student deserves a master teacher, and a master teacher never stops learning,” said Springer Music teacher Mrs. Lucy Hicks. “While I am not an instrumentalist, I am prepared to learn alongside my students to ensure they have access to the programs that awaken their passion.”

A young man in glasses and a brown hoodie plays the saxophone in a large room.

Two musicians in a room with patterned walls practice playing brass instruments at tables.

The event and the beginning band program are made possible through generous grant funding from the Jerome Westheimer Foundation. Additionally, the tireless work of Mr. Aaron, who believes deeply in the transformative power of music and in the drive and talent of the students of Springer, played an essential role in coordinating the event and bringing professional musicians and educators together for the students. Springer also extends its gratitude to the band directors and professional musicians who volunteered their time after full workdays to introduce students to instrumental music. Oklahoma Music Company provided loaner instruments, reeds, mouthpieces, and music literature for students interested in pursuing instrumental music beyond the event.

Mrs. Hicks also appreciates the support of the Springer administration and Springer Public Schools Board of Education for their continued commitment to Fine Arts as an essential component of a well-rounded education and for understanding the lasting value music can bring to a school and its community.

The Instrument Petting Zoo represents another step in expanding musical opportunities for Springer students. For some students, the experience may be the beginning of a new musical journey. For others, it may simply be the first opportunity to discover an instrument that speaks to them. Springer Schools hopes to continue adding those opportunities for their students.

The question is not whether a student belongs in the Springer Music Building because they sing or play an instrument. They all belong. The work is in helping each student find the passion that draws them in, then giving them a place to explore that passion in a collaborative environment where they can grow, create, and learn alongside one another. Those experiences reach far beyond the music classroom. They help shape the confidence, creativity, perseverance, empathy, and sense of belonging that students carry with them as they become the people they are meant to be.

A teacher guides a student on how to hold a flute in a large cafeteria room.