Welcome to Music!

 About the Teacher & Class

 Welcome Message

Welcome to a joyful year of music-making! In our elementary music and choral program, students will explore rhythm, melody, harmony, and the power of singing together. Whether we’re clapping out beats, learning new songs, or preparing for performances, this year will be filled with creativity, teamwork, and fun.

 Meet the Teacher

Hello! My name is Trevor Krawczyk, and I am excited to begin my first year teaching music here at Ripley Elementary. I graduated from SUNY Fredonia with a degree in Music Education, and I am passionate about helping every student discover their musical voice. 

I believe that talent is a myth — music is not reserved for a select few, but is a skill that every child can learn and grow in. My teaching philosophy centers on the idea that success comes from effort, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. In my classroom, students are encouraged to be unshackled by fear of failure and to focus on improvement rather than perfection.

My goal is to establish a thriving music scene within our school and community — one where students can share their cultures, experiences, and creativity in ways that inspire and move others. Whether through singing, playing instruments, or performing together, I want every student to feel empowered to contribute to something greater than themselves.

Outside of teaching, I find great joy in the art of storytelling in all its forms. Whether through literature, theatre, or music, I am drawn to stories that capture ordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things. My hobbies include reading widely across genres, writing both creatively and reflectively, and participating in theatre productions. 

Classroom Vision & Goals

This year, our focus will be on:

  • Building confident singers through choral practice and performance.

  • Exploring musical literacy — reading notes, rhythms, and symbols.

  • Developing creativity with instruments, movement, and composition.

  • Fostering teamwork by learning to listen and blend voices in harmony.

 Academic & Curriculum Focus

 Weekly/Monthly Overview

  • Music Fundamentals: Rhythm patterns, note values, and musical symbols.

  • Instrument Exploration: Percussion, Orff instruments, and classroom instruments.

  • Music Appreciation: Listening to diverse genres and cultures.

  • Performance Prep: Rehearsing for school concerts and showcases.

 Curriculum Resources

  • MusicPlayOnline Learning Modules: A menu of activities, lessons and songs that are used to teach music literacy, confident singing/playing and character traits such as teamwork and creativity. https://musicplayonline.com/ 

 Homework/Grading Policy

In general music, learning is rooted in active engagement and performance. Because music is an art form created and experienced in the moment, written homework is assigned infrequently. Instead, student progress is evaluated through participation, effort, and perseverance during class activities. Growth and resilience are the primary measures of success; students who consistently apply themselves and demonstrate determination will see their commitment reflected in their grades.

 Communication Hub

Contact Information

  • Preferred Contact Method: Email — tkrawczyk@ripleycsd.org

  • Additional Contact Method: Thrillshare Rooms. This is where I make general announcements about general music, concerts and the musical, as well as contact parents/guardians with any updates or questions. 

  • I respond within 24 hours on school days. For urgent matters, please call the school office.

 Quick Links & Resources

 Select Chorus

  • Students in grades 3–6 are invited to participate in Select Chorus, a semester-long ensemble dedicated to preparing and performing high-quality repertoire for upcoming concerts. Through this experience, students will develop healthy and efficient vocal techniques, strengthen their skills in selective listening, and explore the harmony between sections. Rehearsals will take place in a safe and supportive environment that fosters discipline, collaboration, and a strong sense of community.

  • Concert dates will be communicated through Thrillshare Rooms and highlighted in the school newsletter to ensure families remain informed and engaged.

 RCS Musical 

  • As the director and music director of the RCS fall musicals, I strongly encourage students to participate in this enriching experience. Musicals provide a unique opportunity to develop vocal skills in a theatrical setting, build confidence in performance, and foster meaningful friendships across grade levels. Through several weeks of dedicated rehearsal, students, stage crew, and set designers collaborate to prepare for two culminating performances: one for the school community and another for the broader RCS audience.

  • Participation is open to students in grades 3–6. Auditions will be held early in the fall semester, during which students will present a one-minute excerpt of a song of their choice. Following auditions, casting will be announced, and rehearsals will take place Monday through Thursday after school. On performance day, students will present their work in two shows: an afternoon performance for the school and an evening performance for families and the community.