Music Electives

6th Grade Music

The Colchester Middle School music department believes that every individual is innately musical. We work hard to create learning opportunities that encourage every student to engage with music - whether it be as a listener, performer, and/or a composer. We are proud to offer a robust music program where students can explore various styles, genres, and time periods of music, and discover their place within it. The 6th grade curriculum is  comprised of units of study on rhythmic, melody and harmony, the science of sound, composition, musical instruments, music history, music literacy, Theater arts and digital music production.

Music Appreciation and History (7/8th Grade Only)

This is a non performing class that focuses on musical as a cultural tool. This class will ask students to explore how they connect with music from various artists of different genres, music from around the world and music from different time periods.

Modern Band  (7/8th Grade Only)

This class focuses on modern band instruments - piano, guitar, bass, drums (think School of Rock). Students will get introduced to each of the four instruments listed, and then choose one to focus on for the remainder of the semester. Students will work together to create a 'garage band', studying and performing contemporary songs of various genres and styles. 

Theater Arts  (7/8th Grade Only)

Students will explore all the major components of contemporary theater: Acting, Directing, Lights & Sound, Costumes & Make Up, and Playwrighting. Students will undertake projects that get them on their feet, working with their peers to creatively problem solve and tell stories. 

Digital Music  (7/8th Grade Only)

Students will engage with beat making, recording, mixing, editing and producing music through their computers. This class is a non perfoming class, though students should strive to be comfortable sharing their work with the group.