Mr. Joe MacKenzie
Music Teacher

Music

Since 1999, I have been dedicated to teaching music in Catholic schools, with a tenure at St. Ignatius since 2008. My passion lies in nurturing students' musical abilities through various activities, from directing choirs to teaching instruments and musical theory. Beyond the classroom, I am also involved in writing, recording, and performing rock and pop music, enriching my teaching with real-world musical experiences.

​Teaching Overview:

• Pre-School (Classes meet twice a week for twenty minutes)
  • Students explore vocal techniques and basic movements in music.
  • Each session incorporates dance/movement activities.
  • Introduction to rhythm instruments as appropriate.
• Kindergarten, First, Second, and Third Grades
  • Classes meet three times per week for thirty minutes.
  • Focus on singing, movement, and basic musical concepts.
  • Introduction to rhythm instruments to enhance understanding of beat and rhythm.
  • Learning liturgical songs for Mass and celebratory songs for special occasions.
• Fourth and Fifth Grades
  • Classes meet two times per week for forty-five minutes.
  • General Music class emphasizes advanced musical concepts.
  • Practice in reading and writing music using practical examples.
  • Introduction to harmony singing and vocal techniques.
  • Recorder Class (Fourth Grade)
    • Weekly sessions focusing on progressing through the Recorder Karate program.
    • Opportunity to learn additional instruments through MUSE sessions.
  • Ukulele (Fifth Grade)
    • Introduction to reading notes and chords.
    • Exploration of melody, harmony, and accompaniment for singing.
  • Choir (Fourth and Fifth Grades)
    • Opportunity to participate in the school choir for interested students.
• Middle School
  • Classes meet once a week for forty-five minutes.
  • Rotating focus on vocal performance, ukulele, drumming, and music technology.
  • Vocal Performance
    • Emphasis on breath control, posture, and tone production.
    • Collaborative learning of class and combined middle school songs.
  • Ukulele
    • Application of note and rhythm reading to chord progressions and melodies.
    • Small group work to prepare musical repertoire.
  • Music Technology
    • Utilization of GarageBand on iPads for recording projects.
    • Development of accompaniment and arrangement skills.
  • Drumming
    • Exploration of percussion ensemble pieces.
    • Focus on discipline, respect, unity through music, and body percussion rondos.
    • Opportunity for advanced students to learn drum set techniques.
• Other Focus Areas
  • Musical Theatre, Reading and Writing Rhythms, Warm-ups and Breathing Exercises, Vocal Tone and Blend, Mass Music, Christmas Program, Drum Ensemble Performance and Composition, Arranging.