Program Description
The goal of the NMS Music Department is to create an environment that enhances creativity, builds comprehensive musical skills and knowledge, encourages social development, and ensures student success. While working in a group environment, students will be encouraged to explore creative expression, develop individual interpretation, and create music of many styles, cultures, and genres. We will provide the opportunity for students to develop discerning musical tastes and instill a lifelong desire to appreciate music in its many forms. Our overarching educational goal is to create lifelong learners. Norwell Middle School currently offers performing opportunities in chorus and band at the sixth through eighth grade levels and a jazz ensemble that meets as an extra curricular organization.
Faculty Bio
Mary Jo Running has been the director of the Norwell Middle School Music Program since 2008. Previous to Norwell, Mary Jo has taught Elementary, Middle School, and High School Band and General Music in the suburbs of Minneapolis, MN and in Salem, OR where her groups were consistently awarded for superior performances at local and state festivals. She received her Bachelor’s of Music Education from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire in 1996 and a Masters in Education – Music Emphasis from the University of Minnesota in 2006. Last year she served as the South East District Junior Jazz Ensemble Manager and has taught the saxophone studio at Bridgewater State University.