Through the generosity of donors, Ridgewood Elementary School was able to install an outdoor music lab this past fall 2021.
The project allows students to explore, respond, and create music. This project is a unique opportunity for the school and community. Those who utilize the project will find ways to create and make music anywhere and everywhere they go.
There are five instruments installed, 2 flower xylophones, a vertical xylophone, contrabass bars, and a set of five tuned drums.
Ridgewood's General Music Teacher Mara Goodvin said the idea came during the COVID-19 shut down when she was looking for ways for students to be able to make music outside the traditional classroom setting.
The music lab will be used for thoughtful instruction as well as creative play. The students were able to use the music lab for the first time this week and Mrs. Goodvin says the students' response has been great.
"The students are incredibly excited to explore and create music in a different environment," said Mrs. Goodvin.
Since the music lab is outside not only can Ridgewood students take advantage of it but so can the community.
"We've already seen some of our neighborhood friends stop by after school hours and make music," said Mrs. Goodvin.
Thank you to the following funders for making the outdoor music lab a possibility: RIMSD Development Fund, Rock Island Rotary Club, Rock Island-Milan Booster Club, Victor and Doris Day, Rock Island Community Foundation, Rauch Family Foundation, and the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation.
