Music that Brings Us Together

Burlingame’s elementary spring concerts highlight the power of music education, and the community that makes it all possible.

Each spring, the Burlingame Intermediate School Auditorium buzzes with music, excitement, and pride as fourth and fifth grade students from every elementary school take the stage for annual end-of-year concerts. From lively instrumental performances to sweet choral songs, these showcases are a celebration of everything the students, and their music teachers, have worked on throughout the year. They’ve become a beloved tradition across all six elementary schools in the district.

Funded entirely by donations to the Burlingame Community for Education Foundation (BCE), music programs are more than just enrichment—they're a point of pride for our public school community. At spring showcases, families, teachers, and staff gather to cheer on the young performers. For many kids, this is the moment they fall in love with music. High quality elementary music instruction creates moments that often spark a lifelong passion for the arts.

At Lincoln, students lit up the stage with confidence and heart. “It felt like we were watching seasoned performers, not elementary students,” said PTA Co-President Vidya Nathu, who also praised music teacher Mrs. Prater for her leadership. A lively Wicked tribute brought the crowd to its feet, while an impromptu dance moment featuring Superintendent Marla Silversmith and Principal Shirley Clem had the whole room smiling. “Parents’ support of BCE allows our kids to shine, build confidence, and feel the magic of performing for a community that truly believes in them,” Nathu added.

That sense of pride echoed at McKinley, where students performed on May 14 with poise and enthusiasm. “Their hard work truly shone on stage,” said Principal Susana Garcia Fernandez. “We couldn’t be prouder of all of them.”

That same sense of growth and promise was on full display at Hoover Elementary. The spring concert served as both a celebration and a launchpad. “Fourth and fifth grade music is the stepping stone for a student’s musical journey that hopefully goes well beyond Burlingame Intermediate School,” said Principal Ellen Kraska. Hoover parent Michelle Dow added, “It’s amazing to witness the students’ growth from the winter to spring concert! Mr. Wilen has given these students great direction—instilling a love of music and encouraging musical creativity. As a parent of three Hoover kids, I’m thankful each year for the various music performances by grade, thanks to BCE donors.”

In some cases, the concerts became powerful reflections of the school community itself. At Washington, music and emotion were deeply intertwined. Parent Esther Haney called it “probably one of the best Washington concerts I’ve ever seen,” recalling the tearful send-off for two beloved teachers. “It was a powerful reminder of our wonderful school community.” Kindergarten teacher Rebekah Lane highlighted the foundational role music plays even before students join band or choir. “Music class is so much more than singing fun songs. It teaches kids to listen, to control their bodies, and to express themselves,” she explained.

“It’s incredible to think that this entire, amazing experience was funded by BCE—by parents like us, who go above and beyond to collectively give our kids the richest possible education in a public school.” - Esther Haney, Washington mom

At Roosevelt, music became a way for students to reflect on their experiences and speak from the heart. “Our music teacher helps us learn through stories,” said fifth grader Pierce Lee. His classmate, Neal Rekhi, added, “If there was no music in my school, I would feel so depressed. Playing an instrument helps me focus in school, and I love to make music with my friends.” Principal Tara Marinaro echoed that gratitude. “It was so fun to see our students shine on stage… We’re especially grateful to BCE for their continued support in making music a priority at our school and throughout the district,” she shared.

As the final notes of this year’s concerts fade, it’s worth remembering that these performances, and the lifelong lessons they represent, are only possible because of decades of dedication, vision, and community support. Carol Prater, who has taught music in Burlingame for an incredible 53 years, reflected on just how far we’ve come. “I can remember sitting down with the two music parents decades ago who were proposing the idea of starting a Foundation in Burlingame Schools in order to continue all the programs that would be reduced or cut after our funding changed,” she said.

Thanks to that early vision and the continued generosity of BCE donors, thousands of TK through fifth grade students across Burlingame continue to benefit from high-quality music instruction each week.

“It has been a joy and an honor to teach music in the Burlingame School District for the past 53 years… Heartfelt thanks to BCE for all you do to keep music alive and thriving in our schools.” -Carol Prater, music teacher at Roosevelt and Lincoln

Whether it brought tears, laughter, or standing ovations, each concert was a reflection of what’s possible when students are supported, inspired, and given the chance to grow through music. And thanks to BCE donors, those chances exist in every elementary school in Burlingame.

How You Can Help Support Music Education in Burlingame Public Schools

In order to maintain the current level of support for music education in our schools, BCE will need to raise more than $970,000 next year to keep up with rising costs. BCE relies on generous support from parents, businesses and community members to meet its grant goals. Donations to BCE provide our schools with funding for enhancing the educational experience for every child in Burlingame. If you haven’t given yet this year, our suggested donation amount is $2,000 per student, but every dollar makes a difference. Consider joining our Scholars Circle by making a donation of $4,000 or more.

DONATE HERE