Desert Hot Springs Middle School band class gets $500 to grow its music library

Bianca Rae went to Desert Springs Middle School to present Mr. Mundy Viar’s band class with the October One Class At A Time award.

“It’s an elective. They sign up for band. We’re fortunate at this school we have a full day of band,” Mr. Viar said.

“I get to learn something new every day,” sixth grader Christopher Marroquin said.

“I get to learn to read music. Not everyone can do that,” sixth grader Paloma Castaneda said.

These sixth graders have been playing for a few months now.

Now, with the award from KESQ and the Walter Clark Legal Group, this $500 will allow Mr. Viar to grow the music library so students can learn more songs.

“Perhaps finding new titles or composers that might reflect Desert Hot Springs or the greater Palm Springs area (rather) than some traditional concert band music,” Mr. Viar said.

He says music teaches the four Cs, “Creativity, communication, collaboration and critical thinking.”

A fun day spent with these band students, one who wanted to give a shout-out to a special someone.

“Shout-out to my grandma ….for watching the show,” sixth grader Francisco Vargas said.

To apply to be the winner of the next One Class At A Time award, go to KESQ.com, find the Lifestyles tab, and click One Class At A Time.