8th Grade General Music -

Currently, 8th grade music consists of learning the fundamentals of music theory and the elements of music. A limited study of music history and some influential composers will follow. Students will be required to complete a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame project. This curriculum is interspersed with current musical interests that are often student led.

6th Grade General Music -

Currently, 6th grade music is learning or reviewing basic music notation. Students will compose melodies using the knowledge they gain in class. Students will learn about programme music as it pertains to modern culture. Students will study composers of the past such as Bach, Handel, and Beethoven. 6th graders finish out the class learning about jazz music and Broadway sounds.

5th Grade General Music-

Fifth graders get a variety of musical aspects in a 9 week period. In Mr. Brown's class, fifth grade learns about the different musical instrument families and which instruments belong where. Students sing and dance and play a variety of instruments. Grades are based on worksheets and class participation. This is the last year that students play the recorder and the first year they get the opportunity to select a band instrument and begin lessons on that instrument.

6th Grade Chorus-

Mr. Luxbacher has been given the extraordinary task of teaching all of the choruses in the middel and high school this year. I look forward to a time I can revisit this ensemble. There is no singing or playing of instruments inside the building this year. To say that this presents a challenge is an understatement. Best wishes go out to Mr. Luxbacher and all of the OCASD singers.

OILER EXPANSION 6 -

I have been given the unique opportunity to teach a section of our Oiler Expansion program. These are classes designed to improve reading and math scores. The lessons are cross-curricular and have a wide scope. These lessons are also designed to be thought-provoking and challenging. I look forward to seeing you all in my Oiler Expansion class!