Academies @ GBDS hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newest program in their Visual and Performing Arts Academy, “Music and the Brain.” Mr. Smolen, head of school, is very excited that he is able to bring this program to life at Academies @ GBDS. Under the direction of Morah Einat Pinsker, the program is open to first through eighth grades and is the only school in the area with this curriculum. Music and the Brain is a 20+ year neuroscience-based program that builds cognitive fine motor and critical thinking skills through classroom keyboard instruction. The program has been proven to promote critical thinking and memory growth, strengthen focus and attention, develop fine motor skills, strengthen musical literacy and math, develop self esteem and peer assessment skills.

Morah Pinsker said, “The ability to teach piano instruction to a big group of students while allowing for individual progress at their own pace is the best feature of the program. My students are loving the program so far. The warm up and prep activities allow for a fun and interactive cooperation between the students.” The grandparents who joined the ribbon cutting ceremony were very impressed with the equipment, the resources and the diversity in the learning process which includes movement, singing, site reading and playing.