Letter of Support – Beginning Piano Program
From Jody Nieuwendorp, Music Teacher, Hunt A+ Elementary

The Beginning Piano Program of the Music Academy at First United Methodist is a wonderful opportunity for our 4th and 5th grade students at Hunt.  For many students, it’s their first real experience learning an instrument. Piano study helps them understand melody, rhythm, and harmony in a concrete way while building confidence, patience, and focus.

Since starting the program, I’ve seen students become more engaged in class, more disciplined in practice, and more willing to take creative risks. The skills they gain—reading music, setting goals, problem-solving—carry over into their other subjects. Several students who were hesitant learners have discovered new confidence through piano.

The program also creates a strong sense of community. Performances give students a chance to celebrate their progress and share their achievements with families and peers at the recitals. The students also love to share what they have learned and play for their classmates during music class.

Continued grant support will allow the Academy to reach more students, maintain instruments, and keep music education accessible to every child. The positive academic and emotional outcomes we see each year show how powerful this program truly is.

Jody Nieuwendorp
Music Teacher
Hunt A+ Elementary