BEYOND BOOKS: How music reaches where words can’t

Beyond the Books:

Music Reaches Where Words Can’t

by Adam E. Berkowitz, photos provided by Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library

“Ah music, a magic beyond all we do here,” wrote JK Rowling in her novel “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” and she couldn’t have been closer to the truth. Aside from children’s books and school resources, the TampaHillsborough County Public Library has a lot to offer to young performing artists and music lovers in general.

A simple keyword search of the library’s catalog reveals nearly 20,000 items related to music, about half of which is audio music. Styles of music range from pop to jazz, classical to rock, country to blues, musicals to soundtracks and much more. There is music specifically for children as well as kid-friendly albums the whole family can enjoy. The library’s extensive music collection includes an equally broad selection of streaming music titles. Visit HCPLC.org/Music and choose Hoopla to explore digital music collections and genres. In addition to the standard genres, youth may enjoy collections designed to appeal by age such as Kids’ Tunes: Lullabies, Kids’ Tunes: Classical, Disney Channel Musicals, Tween Central and Teen Chill Beats.

Did you also know that the library has several branches with recording studios? These studios are equipped with green screens, audio and video recording equipment, and computers with audio and video editing programs. Band and choir students can easily set up music stands and instruments to record practice sessions, and theatre students can come together to complete performance projects. Using the recording studio’s editing software, theatre students can impress their teachers and classmates with polished and professional looking productions, especially when including unique and interesting backgrounds using the green screen. Also, music students can be sure that only their best recordings are used for auditions and seating assignments in class. Besides completing school assignments, the recording studios can also be used to create recordings of your young performing artists for family and friends by sharing them online. Even if your child doesn’t need to record anything, the library’s studios make for excellent practice rooms. As a sizeable, open space equipped with sound dampening technology, the studios are suitable for singing, playing instruments, running lines and dancing.

Students don’t need to be experts in using editing software nor recording equipment. Library staff at these locations are well versed in the use of these technologies and can help your child get started on their project. The library also has access to a handful of online learning platforms such as LinkedIn Learning and Universal Class. A quick search on LinkedIn Learning results in a variety of tutorials for programs like Audacity, iMovie, Pro Tools, Premier Pro and several others. Likewise, Universal Class features hours of lessons in the use of Adobe Premier and Final Cut Pro. HCPLC.org/OnlineClasses

Perhaps your child isn’t old enough to be in an elementary school chorus, middle school band or high school theatre production. Don’t let that keep you from opening the doors to a world of music. You can borrow children’s books introducing musical instruments or kids’ guides to making music. The library’s collection also offers printed music for beginners for instruments such as violin, piano, drums and guitar. Besides borrowing music CDs or streaming music, you can borrow a ukulele kit and learn to play songs using the included method book provided by the Tampa Bay Ukulele Society.

Like your libraries, music is for everyone. Let the library be your child’s destination for their musical experiences. Take full advantage of what the library has to offer.

Find the tools you need for audio, video and media projects at one of the library’s recording studios. HCPLC.org/RecordingStudio Discover books, audio music, ukuleles and more available to borrow at HCPLC.org/Books.

istockphoto.com/ Tyas drawing

ODESSA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 19521 Michigan Ave., Odessa 33556 813-792-1825; odessachristianschool.org

OCS is a Christ-focused school for motivated learners who want to dive into learning through self-directedness, deep projects and mastery. Using inquiry, collaboration, exploration and discussion with traditional and blended tools as well as field trips and travel, students gain responsibility, perseverance and confidence in learning and public speaking.

ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

3415 16th St., Tampa 33605 813-276-5717; hillsboroughschools.org/orangegrove

Be a shining star at Orange Grove, where high academic achievement meets creativity. Our historic campus includes two professional dance studios, video production, visual arts with a MAC lab and exceptional music and technical theater suites. We help our students prepare for their next step if they choose to apply to Blake High School or to hone their skills so they can "wow" their families. Our kids get a well-rounded education.

PAIDEIA CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 7834 N. 56th St., Tampa 33617 813-988-7700; paideiatampa.com

Paideia Classical Christian School is a community of parents and teachers who share a commitment for educating children to love learning and grow in godliness. We are intentional about developing passionate disciples, exceptional scholars and virtuous citizens. As a nationally accredited, classical school, we employ time-proven curriculum and methods of education which teach students not primarily what to think, but how to think: thoroughly, maturely and biblically.

PALM HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2355 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor 34683 727-786-1854; palmharbormontessori.com

Palm Harbor Montessori Academy offers the highest quality individualized Montessori experience in the Tampa area. With innovative programs for children from 12 months to 8th grade, our talented and passionate teachers provide an education that nurtures the whole mind, including critical thinking, emotional intelligence and physical wellbeing.

PATEL CONSERVATORY 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 33602 813-222-1040; patelconservatory.org

At the Patel Conservatory, every student deserves the opportunity to discover their creative potential. Our programs provide training in dance, theater and music. Camps and classes vary by length, age and skill level. Patel Conservatory classes require active learning participation by students and result in a performance.

PEPIN ACADEMIES | pepinacademies.com 3916 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa 33610; 813-236-1755 9304 Camden Field Parkway, Riverview 33578; 813-533-2999 7710 Osteen Road, New Port Richey 34653; 727-233-2961

Pepin Academies are non-profit, tuition-free, independent public charter schools serving students with learning and learning-related disabilities. Qualified as Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Center schools, we provide a diversified curriculum driven by the student’s needs in a positive educational environment, as well as a transitional job training program for post-high school students who choose to defer receipt of their diploma.

PINELLAS PREPARATORY ACADEMY 2300 S. Belcher Road, Largo 33771 727-536-3600; pinellasprep.org

Pinellas Preparatory Academy is a high performing, "A" rated, tuition free K-8 public charter school. Besides our strong academics, you will find a culture of strong character and community. The school focuses on developing the talents of each student, while emphasizing high academic standards. Enrollment: 50 Class-Size: 25 max Grades: 1-12 Tuition: $10,000-$11,000

Enrollment: 556 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 86 Class-Size: Varies Grades: K-12 Tuition: $7,930-$8,699

Enrollment: 220

Class-Size: Toddler 10:2; Preprimary 20:2; Primary to middle school, max of 22:2 Grades: 12 mo. - 14 years Tuition: $500-$1,540 per month depending on age and program

Enrollment: 1,000 Class-Size: Varies by program Grades: All ages and skill levels Tuition: Varies by program

Enrollment: 1,200+ students between three campuses Class-Size: 13:2 Grades: 3-12 and a Transition Program for ages 18-22 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 800 Class-Size: K-3 18, 4-8 22 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

8113 Zinnia Drive, Tampa 33619 813-671-5110; hillsboroughschools.org/progressvillage

We are proud to offer the largest dance and culinary arts programs in Hillsborough County. We're routinely recognized as a Magnet School of America national award winner and show our craft to organizations and events around the district. Students can try exciting electives such as Costume and Fashion Design, orchestra, journalism and more. The spotlight shines on students at Progress Village.

RAMPELLO K-8 MAGNET (CULTURAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES )

802 E. Washington St., Tampa 33602 813-233-2333; rampello.mysdhc.org

Join us for experiential learning with walking field trips through downtown Tampa, and a differentiated instruction focus to meet the needs of all learners. We have strong community partnerships and school-wide AVID instructional strategies. Middle school electives include: Band/Jazz/Orchestra/Steel Drums, Art 2-D and 3-D, Spanish and Creative Writing.

RIVERHILLS ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)

405 Riverhills Drive, Temple Terrace 33617 813-987-6911; riverhills.mysdhc.org

Located on the Hillsborough River, with all the science potential and experiment potential that implies, we prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students can study global cultures and develop an open and curious mind. Students engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, Inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more.

RIVERVIEW ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE 9906 Symmes Road, Riverview 33578 813-412-6111; riverviewacademy.com

The tuition-free, public charter school proudly serves students from kindergarten through middle school with a well-rounded college preparatory education. The rigorous curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere, and a focus on character development. Offerings include the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies, Edvantage before and after school program, Tampa Bay’s Grasses in Classes Program and Cognia accreditation.

RODGERS MIDDLE MAGNET (CAMBRIDGE CANDIDATE)

11910 Tucker Road, Riverview 33569 813-671-5288; hillsboroughschools.org/rodgers

Rodgers, an authorized Cambridge International Magnet School, offers learning guided by the rigorous, world renowned Cambridge Pathways philosophy. Located in Riverview's Bell Creek Nature Preserve, we embrace and empower the whole student. Several National Board-Certified Teachers highlight our exceptional team of educators. Ask us about our Cambridge Honors Institute if you choose to apply!

ROLAND PARK K-8 MAGNET (IB)

1510 N. Manhattan Ave., Tampa 33607 813-872-5212; rolandpark.mysdhc.org

We inspire young inquiring minds to become compassionate, lifelong learners and internationally-minded people with respect for various cultures and a desire to serve others. Students can experience inquiry-based learning centers, transdisciplinary units of study, an outdoor classroom with an international garden, a strings program and world languages.

SAFETY HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2669 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 34653 727-724-1767; safetyharbormontessori.com

Safety Harbor Montessori Academy is a learning community whose primary goal is to help students reach their full potential in all aspects of their development, in a loving, respectful atmosphere. We have programs for children ages 2 through 14, providing continuity from early childhood to adolescence. Enrollment: 953 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 777 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 529 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 823 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 766 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 150 Class-Size: 12-18 Grades: Ages 2-grade 8 Tuition: $9,800-$16,650

SEFFNER CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 11605 E. U.S. HWY 92, Seffner 33584 813-626-0001; scacrusaders.com

Seffner Christian Academy is a distinctly Christian learning community for students in preschool - 12th grade. We are committed to developing well-rounded, Gospel-driven students who are prepared for life. Please contact our Admissions department to schedule a time for you to experience the SCA difference!

SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

1908 2nd Ave., Tampa 33605 813-276-5712; shore.mysdhc.org

We are an award-winning Magnet School of the Arts located in historic Ybor City. Students learn through arts and science integration and can take part in the Annual Arts Festival and school musical. Students expand their horizons through visual art, dance, strings, music, drama, STEAM Engineering and robotics programs. Our partnership with the Straz Performing Arts Center brings Broadway to our students--something you will find at no other school!

SHORECREST PREPARATORY SCHOOL 5101 1st St. NE., St. Petersburg 33703 727-522-2111; shorecrest.org

Founded in 1923, Shorecrest is a coed, nonsectarian, PK3-12 independent school in St. Petersburg, FL. In a safe, student-centered environment, Shorecrest educates a diverse community of students to become lifelong learners in the pursuit of personal and academic excellence, physical well-being, creative achievement and the development of a commitment to social responsibility.

SIMMONS CAREER ACCELERATION ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL 1202 W. Grant St., Plant City 33563 813-707-7430; hillsboroughschools.org/simmons

Simmons Career Acceleration Academy High School in Plant City serves students 9-12, providing a school culture focused on academic achievement, personal growth, and preparing students for a successful future after high school. Students experience a hybrid learning approach, career preparation through industry certifications, and a streamlined path to graduation. Students can take part in athletics and extracurricular activities at their zoned school.

SKYCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater 33765 727-797-1186; skycrestchristianschool.org

The value of a Skycrest education is immeasurable. School graduates enter their high school years with outstanding academic preparation, leadership skills and confidence in their ability to succeed. With newly integrated technology, an extensive list of extracurricular activities and a small student/teacher ratio, a Skycrest education is available at amazingly competitive rates.

SLIGH MIDDLE MAGNET

(HUMAN HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE, MEDICAL ADMINISTRATION AND SCIENCES)

2011 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa 33610 813-276-5596; hillsboroughschools.org/sligh

Join a culture of future health professionals whose uniforms are doctors' scrubs four days a week. We are preparing students for one of the fastest growing career fields in the country. Electives engage all students with Career and Technical Education, Family and Consumer Science and our AVID college readiness program.

SOUTH COUNTY CAREER ACCELERATION ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL 2810 John Sherman Way, Ruskin 33570 813-233-3335; hillsboroughschools.org/sccc

South County Career Center offers an accelerated program to any high school student to either earn previously lost credits or to accelerate in current courses using Edgenuity. We currently offer Automotive program as well as Agriculture as electives. Enrollment: 754 Class-Size: 20 Grades: K2-12 Tuition: $9,500 - $11,200

Enrollment: 441 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 995 Class-Size: 16-18 Grades: PK3-12 Tuition: $12,670 - $28,460

Enrollment: 250 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 500 Class-Size: 22 Grades: K4-grade 8 Tuition: $11,000+ fees

Enrollment: 579 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 200 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE