MG teacher creates joy and connection through music
For music teacher Ashley Oropeza, the music room is about much more than learning songs.
It’s a place where students are encouraged to take risks, express themselves, and explore the many cultures and experiences that make up the Mechanics Grove community.
“My favorite thing about working with students at MG is how much joy can be found in the music room,” Oropeza said. “Music class allows students to be a little bit silly, which leads to a lot of laughter throughout the day.”
That joy is paired with meaningful opportunities for students to see themselves reflected in their learning. Through music lessons, concerts, and clubs, Oropeza intentionally incorporates a wide range of cultures and traditions into the classroom experience.
“Whether it’s learning a folk dance from Mexico, performing in our mariachi club, studying the 12-bar blues, or setting music to a story about Lunar New Year, I truly value helping students explore their cultures through music,” she said.
Creating a classroom where students feel comfortable participating is also central to her approach.
“One thing I often tell my students is, ‘The music room is a safe place to take a risk and make a mistake,’” Oropeza said.
Some of her favorite moments come when students push themselves outside their comfort zones, whether it’s improvising on a xylophone for the first time, contributing an idea during a composition activity, or performing in front of others.
She saw that growth during Leadership Day, when third-grade students performed a song from their upcoming concert.
“Watching them go from a bit nervous at the start of the song to singing their hearts out by the end made me so thankful that I get to work with these amazing students every day,” she said.
Oropeza’s classroom is built around the Orff Schulwerk approach, a hands-on style of music education that encourages students to learn through singing, movement, instruments, storytelling, and creative play. For Oropeza, the philosophy behind the approach is simple: every student has something valuable to contribute.
“Student voice is encouraged, and every single student is a valuable part of the community we have created,” she said.