Middle School Music

All Middle School students at every skill level take general music, focusing on active music making and creation. Students begin the program by using their personal instruments: their voices.

Through singing games, folk dance, recorder, percussion instruments and interactive technology, students learn to sing in tune both individually and as an ensemble. The curriculum develops an understanding of ensemble and musicianship through experiential learning with drums, xylophones, recorders, ukuleles and technology. Building on prior music literacy skills, students learn how to perform and compose their own music. Students develop music technology skills including electronic notation, recording and editing so that their creative work can be mixed and produced to share with others.

Music teachers work collaboratively with classroom teachers to create interdisciplinary and cross-curricular lessons, integrating text and concepts from English, history and STEAM classes. In addition, students have the option to participate in band, chorus or orchestra during the school day. All instrumental students receive small group lessons on their chosen instrument during the school day. Extracurricular opportunities for motivated instrumentalists include Big Band and Sunrise Orchestra.