Hialeah Gardens Middle School (HGMS) named music teacher, Berman Lopez, as Teacher of the Year.
With great attention to his student’s individual needs, Lopez also focuses on efficiently teaching his students about the intricacies of the music world.
“This includes an effective and efficient warm up routine, where students listen to each other and focus on rhythmic and articulation exercises, as well as learning scales and proper breathing techniques,” Lopez explained. “We continue the rehearsal, learning standard band literature, while reinforcing fundamentals. Such as phrasing, tuning, and tone production.”
Once students master their musical skills, Lopez tries to connect their experience in the classroom with the outside world, giving them opportunities to showcase their talents in school-wide recitals and even performing at Walt Disney World in Orlando.
Students also use what they’ve learned to help others in the community. Lopez has students volunteering for events like the Jose Marti parade, Breast Cancer Walk, Walk for Pediatric Cancer, The Homeless Awareness Rally and many more.
“Not only do students make real world connections, but they understand that talents are not a selfish possession,” Lopez said.
Since 2011, HGMS Symphonic Band students have been winning Superior ratings consistently, in addition to Lopez’s Jazz Band, which has held the same rating for the past three years. In the Music USA Festival in Orlando, Lopez’s students have been named Grand Champions five times out of the six years they’ve been competing.
“Their success is my success!” Lopez exclaimed. “Earning their trust and respect is a priority for me, and I feel privileged to work in a profession that allows me to incorporate my love of music into my passion for teaching.”