What is the time commitment to join a music ensemble (band, choir, orchestra)?

Band, choir, and orchestra are a 1 year commitment. Student will not be allowed to change or drop classes mid school year. There may be 1-2 after school rehearsals prior to concerts. One concert per quarter.

Does the school provide instruments?

Each student will be required to provide their own instrument. Larger Instruments such as French Horn, Baritone/Euphonium, Tuba, Cello and Bass will be provided to use during class. Though the school will provide these larger instruments, it is encouraged that students who choose these larger instruments, rent/buy their own to keep at home for personal practice and to avoid having to transport to and from school.

Do students miss other classes for band, choir, or orchestra?

No. Band, choir, and orchestra are part of the daily schedule.

If a student is enrolled in band, choir or orchestra, will they still be able to take art, p.e. and computer classes?

Yes. Sixth grade students have two related arts time slots in their daily schedule. This allows them to participate in music ensembles and other related arts classes as well.

Does participation in band, choir, or orchestra conflict with sports?

No, music classes are held during the school day.

Can a student wait and start an ensemble class in the 7th grade?

No. Beginning band, choir and orchestra classes are only offered in the 6th grade.

Can a band or orchestra members switch instruments during the school year?

We do not allow the switching of instruments during the school year.

How does a student enroll to play drums in the band?

Playing drums (percussion!) in band is by audition only. Franklin Township percussion instructor Mr. Hodgson will conduct an audition process for interested candidates. The correct instrument balance for a band program allows for 10 % enrollment of percussionist. This would be 10 beginner percussionist per school.

Do the band, choir, orchestra ensembles wear uniforms?

Yes, polo shirts will be ordered at the beginning of the school year.

Do choir, band, orchestra students get grades?

Yes, students will receive a grade every 9 weeks.

Do band, choir, orchestra students have homework?

Students will be expected to practice weekly at home. There may be other assignments on an occasional basis.

Do you encourage private music lessons?

Yes to this question. Contact directors for more information regarding available private instructors in our area.

What if my student chooses not to participate in band, choir, or orchestra?

Students will be required to take an Exploring Music class if they do not chose a performance ensemble. Exploring Music is a semester long class and is part of the Intermediate School Related Arts rotation. It is a non-performance based academic music class in which students will learn about music through listening and writing assignments, projects and research.

Will there be an information meeting for parents?

Yes, there will be two meetings for parents of band/orchestra students. At these meetings curriculum information will be provided, as well as information on how to obtain an instrument.

Monday April 19th, 2021 6:30pm - Band/Orchestra Information Night at Edgewood Intermediate

Tuesday April 20th, 2021 6:30pm - Band/Orchestra Information Night at Kitley Intermediate

Being part of a choir enhances a young person’s quality of life. It provides creative, emotional, and social opportunities and can also lead to improvements in academic performance and in other areas beyond music.

Singers will learn to sing with correct vocal technique, posture and intonation, as well as sing with confidence in unison and two parts. They will sing a varied repertoire of music including Pop, Classical, Jazz, and Contemporary. This will also include music of other eras, cultures and languages. Singers will learn to read the language of music, which engages all parts of the brain. This includes sight-singing, melodic and rhythmic reading. Being a member of a choir will allow singers to learn many valuable cooperation and teamwork skills that are unique to the choral experience.

There will be minimal homework in choir. There are rhythm quizzes, voice tests and written tests. Grades are based on concert performance participation as well as organizational contest participation. Grades are also based on class participation, class behavior, written tests, quizzes and singing tests. (Singing alone for a grade is very rare. Usually group singing is done as the teacher evaluates singing voices.)

Exploring Music is a non-performance class assigned to 6th graders who have elected not to enroll in band/choir/orchestra. Enrollment in this class is not necessary. Students not in band/choir/orchestra will be assignment to general music as part of their related arts rotation. Like other 6th grade related arts classes, Exploring Music is a semester long class.

The Exploring Music Class (sometimes called general music) is different than 4th and 5th grade Exploring Music. While band/choir/orchestra are very "hands-on" types of classes with a performance element, Exploring Music is more academic in approach. Band/choir/orchestra involves the student in creating music; Exploring Music students experience music through observation and analysis. This observation includes listening journals, projects, videos, worksheets, and written quizzes.