Music education is thriving in the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD), where students from elementary through high school receive top-tier instruction and performance opportunities.
As March marks Music in Our Schools Month, educators and administrators reflect on the profound impact of music on student development and the district’s commitment to fostering musical excellence.
Early Exposure, Lifelong Impact
Christi Bandelin, a general music teacher at Pueblo Elementary School, emphasizes the importance of early exposure to music.
“Showing elementary students to music is essential to their development,” Bandelin said. “Music, much like language, involves the decoding of symbols and interpretation of patterns both visual and aural. It encourages creativity, focus, discipline and teamwork.”
Bandelin hopes that all students, regardless of their future career paths, gain valuable skills from music classes.
“I want to inspire students to be lifelong learners,” she said. “The growth mindset needed to achieve a musical goal can positively impact future learning.”
A Legacy of Excellence
SUSD’s middle and high school music programs are nationally recognized, producing top-tier ensembles in orchestra, band and choir. Dr. Sammy Brauer, Choral Director and Fine Arts Department Chair at Chaparral High School, attributes this success to dedicated educators and a commitment to excellence.
“Our students receive a deeper knowledge of music education and incredible performance opportunities that help them realize their highest potential,” Brauer said. “These experiences prepare them for success, whether they pursue music professionally or use their training to stand out in college applications.”
Chaparral’s Advanced Vocal Ensemble (AVE) recently earned a Superior rating at the NAU Jazz and Madrigal Festival and is set to perform in Boston. Gold Dust Avenue, the school’s a cappella group, won the Sing Strong New York Competition for the second consecutive year.
A Well-Rounded Education
Michelle Irvin, SUSD’s Coordinator of Fine Arts and Physical Education, highlights the district’s comprehensive approach to music education.
“SUSD provides music instruction from kindergarten through 12th grade, offering students the opportunity to explore choir, band, orchestra, guitar, piano and music history,” Irvin said. “Few districts can offer such extensive programs.”
Irvin also noted the broader benefits of music education.
“Music enhances language capabilities, improves memory, develops problem-solving skills and fosters teamwork,” she said. “Any student, regardless of natural ability, can succeed in music with dedication and hard work.”
SUSD students continue to earn accolades at the state and national levels. Nearly 100 students recently represented the district in the Arizona Music Educators Association All-Regional Band, Orchestra and Choir Festival, demonstrating the high level of talent and preparation within the district.
Opportunities for All
With a commitment to equitable music education, SUSD ensures students at all schools have access to high-quality programs.
“Our district is truly unified in its approach to music,” Irvin said. “... Every student has incredible opportunities.”
For high school students pursuing a four-year pathway in the arts, they can earn the Arts Proficiency Seal, a distinction that highlights dedication and achievement in music.
“Music involvement is a major differentiator when applying to colleges,” Irvin said. “Colleges seek students who are committed, involved and passionate — music provides that edge.”
As Music in Our Schools Month celebrates the power of music education, SUSD continues to set the bar high, ensuring that students not only learn music but also develop skills that will serve them for a lifetime.
To learn more about SUSD’s music education and art offerings, visit susd.org/arts.
SUSD is a member of the Queen Creek Sun Times Preferred Business Program.
