Karenza Kroeker Yoder took over the music program at IMS in 2005. Music has always been an important priority at IMS as is evident in the high involvement of students (75% of the student body) in the program.

Karenza teaches Introduction to Music which is required for all freshmen. It includes a study of the fundamentals of music theory, an overview of music history and examines the role of music in our lives. Advanced Music includes Conducting, Music Theory, Composition, Music History/Careers/Philosophy. Chorale teaches students to sing, teaches them to sing in four-part harmony, textual sensitivity, musicianship, sight singing, and concert performance. Symphonic Band addresses sight reading, musicianship, playing instruments in an ensemble together, concert performance, practice, and collaboration in music. Touring Choir is for juniors and seniors and includes singing in four to eight part harmony, textual sensitivity, musicianship, sight singing, preparing a program, concert performance and collaboration in music.

When asked what her goals for her students were this year, Karenza responded, “To stretch each student beyond what they think they can do. I want them to discover a new love and appreciation for music and how it affects our lives spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically.  I want to teach them a life-long skill that they can enjoy for the rest of their lives and to be able to express their faith in their own original music or by using what music is out there already.”

Karenza gives some suggestions on how parents can help students succeed in her classes.  She would like parents to strongly encourage (or force) their child to join Chorale and Symphonic Band in their freshman year. Once students try it, they will more accurately be able to determine if it’s not for them and many will be surprised how much they enjoy it!  It would be great if parents asked their child to share what songs they are learning, what the text of those songs are, what is challenging about it and what they like, don’t like, and why. Lastly, if parents would encourage their child to practice through the times when they don’t feel like it, it would help the student improve and discover that it is well worth the effort!

Currently, there is a lot happening in the music department. Chorale gained seven guys from having none in the fall and is spending extra time on music theory to make them better singers. Advanced Music is learning to conduct, they will move on to Music Theory, Composition, and will study some music therapy in May. Touring Choir is preparing music for the Spring Tour. Symphonic Band really enjoyed the collaboration concert between IMS and Hesston College this past weekend. Symphonic Band is preparing music for the Orchestra Festival which IMS hosts in March with guest conductor Tim Shade from Bethel College.