By Barbie Kiberstis
MethuenLife Writer

Methuen High School Band Director Brian McGonagle is clearly impressed with Toby Swartz’s rhythm. MethuenLife photos by Barbie Kiberstis

Methuen Public School music teachers recently held a Musical Instrument Petting Zoo at the Tenney Grammar School, inviting rising middle-schoolers and their families to come in and learn about the amazing music programs MPS offers, and to give the students a chance to experience some of the instruments first-hand.

Brian Fulks, the Tenney’s music teacher, welcomed guests and conducted an impressive performance by the city-wide 8th-grade band.

“All these kids started out just the way you are now,” said Fulks, “and in four years you’ll be playing just like this.”

After a brief slide presentation with all the details parents need to know about schedules and performances, the crowd was free to explore the different areas set up around the school and try their hands at hitting some drums and blowing

some horns.

Methuen High School Band Director Brian McGonagle, overseeing the percussion instruments set up in the gymnasium, said, “This is a great way to get kids in and have them try things out for themselves,” adding, “We are still rebuilding the program

from the years we lost participation due to COVID-19 restrictions. The number of students is already growing again.”

It’s not too late to learn more if you missed this event (which by the way, was NOT an actual petting zoo much to the surprise and comical disappointment of a certain staff photographer), parents can reach out to the Methuen Fine Arts Director Cheryl

Mancini’s office at clmancini@methuen.k12.us and they will be able to provide you with contact information for your particular school district to help with any questions you may have.