PreK 4 through Kindergarten
These classes explore general music principles through the “9 National Music Standards.” These include singing, playing instruments, creating and evaluating music, and connecting the other arts through movement. The students explore instruments such as rhythm sticks, jingle bells, hand drums, shakers, Boomwackers, and xylophones through a variety of activities. PreK meets once per week, while Kindergarten is twice per week. They perform a minimum of four concerts per year in conjunction with the other grade levels.
First through Third Grade Music
Each class period is divided into two parts: rhythm and aural training followed by violin and vocal performance. First Grade students focus on learning proper beginning violin technique and pitch matching skills. Progressing into Second Grade, students solidify their bow technique and strengthen general musicianship. Finally, in third grade, students continue their violin studies as well as explore the options for future years. This includes more music theory training and exposure to other instruments. First through Third Grade students meet twice per week and perform a minimum of four concerts per year in conjunction with the other grade levels.
Fourth and Fifth Grade Music
Students in Fourth and Fifth Grade are given the option of continuing with string instruments or switching to band. If they choose to continue with string instruments, they may expand their selection from violin to include the other members of an orchestra (viola, cello, or bass). If students choose to switch to band, they must choose from traditional band instruments including flute, clarinet, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, or percussion (limited spaces available). Students meet twice a week and rehearse out of their method book. Both orchestra and band students at this level are asked to practice 90 minutes per week to maximize instruction time in the classroom. Fourth and Fifth Grade orchestra and band perform a minimum of four concerts throughout the year. Two of the four concerts involve the other Performing Art disciplines.