Music

The curriculum comprises a balanced and sequential course of singing, playing instruments, listening to music, improvising or composing music and moving to music.  Also included are learning experiences designed to develop the ability to read music, use the notation and terminology of music, analyze and describe music, make informed evaluations concerning music and understand music and music practices in relation to history, culture and to other disciplines in the curriculum.  Students learn by actively participating in making music and in understanding the basic principles of music such as Rhythm (Beat , Meter, Duration, Rhythmic Pattern), Melody (Pitch, Melodic Contour, Melodic Patterns, Melodic Phrases, Scales/Tonality), Harmony (Texture, Chords, Linear Harmony), Timbre/Tone Color (Vocal, Instrumental, Classroom Instruments), Expression (Style, Dynamics, Tempo), Form, Vocal Skills, Instrumental Skills, Innovation (Composition and Improvisation), Historical and Cultural Context, and Critical Response.

Instrumental Music begins in Grade 4. Students are offered the opportunity to select the band or string instrument of their choice near the end of Grade 3. Although students are generally encouraged to study an instrument of their own choosing, they may be directed towards a particular instrument because of  his or her physical characteristics, the need for ensemble balance or other factors relating to the varying demands of a particular instrument. Band instruments which are offered are flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion. Students playing these instruments will be placed in the 4th Grade or 5th Grade Band. As a group, the 5th-grade band works toward being able to play NYSSMA level 1 band music by the end of the year.

All students in grades 3, 4 & 5 are members of a choral ensemble. Each chorus meets once per week for 40 minutes. In our rehearsals, we learn about topics such as harmony/part singing, reading music notation, creating beautiful sounds with the proper use of breathing, posture and tonal exercises, and working together as an ensemble. 

Stringed instruments offered are violin, viola, and cello. The orchestra director will determine the correct size of the particular instrument before the student orders the instrument. Students playing a string instrument will be placed in the 4th Grade or 5th Grade Orchestra. 

Students receive one group lesson per week and Band/Orchestra rehearsals outside of the school day.  Each student will rent their instrument from any number of local music dealers. The district will distribute rental forms from various dealers, but parents may rent from anywhere. Students are asked to practice 20 minutes per day to refine and maintain their skills. Weekly assignments are given and are indicated on a practice record sheet for each student. Students are assessed on their performance at each lesson. Students are highly encouraged to continue their musical experience by participating in middle school ensembles.