It was a day some orchestra students at South Jordan Middle School won’t soon forget. They were treated to music lessons conducted by four members of the Salt Lake Symphony, which is Utah’s premier, all volunteer orchestra.

The students were focused and grateful as the talented professionals taught them some new musical techniques with their instruments. The Salt Lake Symphony provides free professional workshops to schools as part of their Educational Outreach Program.

Director of South Jordan Middle Orchestras, Rich Munro said, “During the event, I heard immediate noticeable improvement in our orchestra students’ performance skills, and furthermore, I learned new teaching methods to make me a more effective director. As an added bonus, I loved hearing that the visiting musicians were genuinely impressed with our students! They felt the students were engaged in listening, learning, and applying what was being taught to them. It was obvious to the professionals that our students want to improve as musicians.”

“Heartfelt thanks go out to the two violinists, violist, and cellist who donated their precious personal time in providing world-class instruction to our amazing South Jordan Middle Orchestras. What a great day!”

Identical twin sisters Lucy and Ellis Herring are doing their part to make sure South Jordan Middle School is a welcoming and positive place for everyone. They produced an inspiring video, which reflects the school theme “Rise Up,” asking everyone to rise above, be advocates for one another, promote kindness and make good choices. The video was shown in classrooms throughout the school to kick off South Jordan Middle’s “Rise Up” campaign.

Here is the inspirational video.

Take a moment to watch this and be inspired.

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