National Honor Society students teach piano to middle school music classes

Warwick Valley High School seniors and National Honor Society (NHS) members Nathan Link and Andy Chen recently completed a significant segment of their NHS Pillar Projects by visiting seventh-grade general music piano classes at Warwick Valley Middle School. Their visit not only brought music to life for the younger students in WVMS teacher Shane Peters’ general music classes but also exemplified the power of peer education and the value of mentorship.

The visit, guided by Warwick Valley High School Director of Counseling Mary Fox, fulfilled a key requirement for the two students’ NHS Pillar Projects.

“The Pillar Project is a requirement for NHS members,” Ms. Fox explained. “Members are asked to fulfill this community-focused aspect of their membership in order to demonstrate leadership, service, character, and scholarship, which are the four pillars of the National Honor Society.”

During their class time, Nathan and Andy taught the seventh graders to play “Happy Birthday” on the piano, a two-handed piece with melody played by the right hand and chords by the left. Over two days, the seniors worked alongside the students, culminating in an in-class recital. Nathan and Andy also performed for the students, showcasing advanced piano techniques and inspiring the young musicians.

“It was a very cool experience to see,” said Mr. Peters. “I think the seventh graders were quite inspired to see some virtuosic playing coming from two Warwick students!”

Andy Chen reflected on the project, emphasizing the mutual benefits of peer mentorship.

“Overall, I had a great time with the kids, and they all seemed to have a genuine interest in learning about both music and playing the piano,” Andy shared. “It was awesome seeing their progress from barely being able to play the right hand on the first day, to being able to play the whole song with both hands by the end of the second.

Andy said it was his first time teaching the piano to anyone, and that he not only had a great time but gained valuable experience and insights of his own.

Peer education, where older students mentor younger students, is proven to build confidence and foster leadership skills for both groups. According to education research, younger students benefit from relatable role models, while older students gain communication and teaching experience. Mentorship like this helps create a sense of community and belonging that spans grade levels and buildings.

The National Honor Society Pillar Project requirement ensures students engage in activities that reflect the organization’s values. The NHS website notes that members must complete projects that demonstrate service and leadership, reinforcing their commitment to making a positive impact in their school and community.

The collaborative effort between Nathan, Andy, and the seventh graders met this key NHS milestone, but its real value lies in the lasting impressions—musical and personal—that it made on everyone involved.