Pinedale Elementary hosted the Edward Waters College Choir on December 10 for a special holiday-themed performance.
Led by director, Dr. Samuel D. Shingles, who is also the college’s Dean of Arts and Sciences, the choir performed several selections that will be featured in their Christmas Concert at St. Johns Presbyterian Church on Friday, December 12.
To Shingles, who attended Duval County public schools as a child, visiting schools with his choir group is essential.
“One of my teachers exposed me to music at an early age, which motivated me to pursue a career in music,” he said. “Exposing students to music now is vital.”
Pinedale offers specialized classrooms for the hearing impaired, as well as centers which serve children who have communications/social skills needs.
Anne Nasrallah, a teacher at Pinedale who has played the piano for the choir in the past, arranged the concert so that her students would be introduced to a quality of music that they do not often get to hear live.
“The artistry, enthusiasm and volume of this gifted group of college students will be an inspiration to students who aspire to be musicians when they see where hard work and talent can take them,” said Nasrallah.
Principal Alan Due also believes that music education plays an important role in the overall education of his students, completing a full spectrum of learning.
“Music is often called the universal language," said Due. “It speaks to students, appeals to their interests and participating in music can be a goal they aspire to achieve.”
More 'Spotlight on Education' Articles
