At Bryant Elementary in Mableton, Georgia, every student has the right and ability to learn, and “it’s my job to help them discover it,” says Elementary Music Specialist Tiphanie L. McClenton. “My program is all about curiosity, creativity and bold experimentation.”
In her classes, students explore music, movement and improvisation in ways that let them shine and take risks. Through hands-on experiences, laughter and collaboration, they build confidence, social skills and a lifelong love of the arts. “Even if they never pursue music professionally, I aim for every student to leave my classroom with joy, self-expression and artistic curiosity that lasts a lifetime,” she says.
McClenton provides music instruction and performance opportunities for all 860 students at Bryant, which makes music an inclusive and shared experience across grade levels. “In my classroom, music, movement and improvisation happen every day, and students know it’s time for fun the moment they walk in,” she says with a smile.
Class begins with a movement activity to wake up bodies and brains followed by a quick brain teaser, a hello song and beat and rhythm practice. “Improvisation bursts forth through movement, instruments and acting, letting students explore creativity in the moment. As a certified Orff Schulwerk educator, I pack every lesson with playful, hands-on experiences that spark imagination and keep students eager to return,” she explains.
McClenton also created and directs two performing ensembles: the Sounds of Bryant Orff Ensemble (35 students) and the Bengal Beat Squad (10 students). Both groups perform at school and throughout the greater Atlanta area.
The Sounds of Bryant Orff Ensemble began during the 2021–2022 school year to challenge 4th and 5th graders with more complex repertoire and advanced performance opportunities. In just a few years, the group has earned superior ratings at the Southern Star Music Festival three years in a row, performed at the Georgia Music Educators Association‘s in-service conference, and inspired the creation of an instrumental division in the annual Elementary Music Festival. Looking ahead, the ensemble plans to perform at out-of-state festivals and the Midwest Band and Orchestra Conference. Seeing her students shine on stage “still gives me chills and showcases the exceptional talent and dedication of my young musicians,” McClenton says with pride.
She took the lead in last year’s Fine Arts Night by writing the script, composing and arranging the music, choreographing dances and designing all the props. The performance, “The Mystery Museum,” featured 3rd to 5th graders, including students from Bryant’s special education program. Student actors portrayed news anchors searching Atlanta for a museum of student art. After visiting local museums like the Savannah College of Art and Design, the High Museum of Art, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta and the College Football Hall of Fame, the anchors discovered that the museum was located at Bryant Elementary, where families toured the student-created exhibits afterward. Mystery solved!
As a certified music therapist, McClenton uses her training to approach challenges with empathy, support students with special needs and help every child grow socially, emotionally, physically and academically through music. “Sometimes it’s as simple as switching an overstimulating instrument or keeping a consistent routine for a student who thrives on structure,” she explains. “Other times, it’s using a song, movement or improvisation to spark engagement and connection. Music becomes more than a subject; it’s a tool to help students succeed, express themselves and feel seen.”
McClenton was named Teacher of the Year in two different counties and District Elementary Performing Arts Teacher of the Year. She’s proud to follow in the footsteps of her father, who was a music educator for more than 40 years.
