A singing history lesson

Angelique Flores

Children at Perry Elementary School in Huntington Beach are learning the

history of their hometown, not through books or homework, but through

songs.

Music teacher Nelda Alvarez wrote an original musical with songs about

Surf City to help third graders learn Orange County history. The school’s

600 children will perform these songs -- “The Newland House,” “Bolsa

Chica Wetlands,” “Huntington Beach Pier,” and “Meet the HB Streets” -- in

“The History of Huntington Beach ... A Musical” today.

“I was so interested in Huntington Beach history because I’m from

Hawaii,” said Alvarez, who has only lived here for a year.

A professional singer and songwriter, Alvarez spent winter break

researching the history of and writing songs about the city. The songs --

in styles that include reggae, folk and rap -- tell about the early

Pacific Railroad, the city’s first names, and the pioneers of Huntington

Beach.

“Music is normally an exciting time because most children enjoy singing,”

principal Elaine Keely said.

At a school where 30% of the population use English as a second language,

the songs have helped build the students’ vocabulary and English skills.

“I want to educate children and also get music in their system,” Alvarez

said.

She plans to release a compact disc of the songs before the fall. Alvarez

also wants to write more songs incorporating other educational lessons,

similar to those of “School House Rock.”

The musical performance will be at 7 p.m. today at Perry Elementary,

19231 Harding Lane, Huntington Beach.