About the Program

In Milford, we strongly encourage all students to learn a musical instrument! A child's brain develops in new ways when they learn an instrument, and the musical growth also supplements their learning in literacy and numeracy. Exposure to music makes students more sentient people and builds teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving skills. While it may seem premature, it is also important to consider the longer-term benefits of enrolling your child in band/strings. Opportunities will present themselves throughout middle school, high school and college as a result of playing an instrument, such as participation in regional honors bands/orchestras, jazz ensembles, etc. Not to mention - it is really fun!


String Instruments Offered:

  • Violin

  • Viola

  • Cello

  • ​Bass


​ Band Instruments Offered:

  • Flute

  • Oboe

  • Clarinet

  • Alto Saxophone

  • Trumpet

  • French Horn

  • Trombone

  • Baritone Horn

  • Percussion


Program Structure

The band/strings program is structured as a pull-out lesson program. Fourth and fifth grade band/strings students will have one thirty minute small group lesson each week during the school day. Classroom teachers are consulted in creating an effective schedule. Most schedules are rotating so that students do not miss the same subject each week. In addition, full band/string rehearsals may be scheduled prior to concert performances.


Concerts

All students in the band/strings program will participate in musical performances throughout the school year.

The program's primary goal is to offer students both individual and group experiences that promote growth and performance both musically and personally. For a truly meaningful experience, we strongly encourage students to make a year-long commitment.


The objectives for instrumental music are based on the NATIONAL CORE ARTS STANDARDS (underlined) as follows:

  • Students will learn to CREATE music.

  • Students will develop a basic understanding of the elements of music and how they apply to music selections chosen for classroom study.

  • Students will develop a music vocabulary.

  • Students will understand key signatures, time signatures, and meter.

  • Students will gain a basic understanding of musical phrasing.

  • Students will gain a foundation for looking at different forms of music.

  • Students will learn to PERFORM music.

  • Students will attain an appropriate facility on the instrument through specific assignments.

  • Students will develop the ability to perform rhythms and notes.

  • Students will develop proper tone quality.

  • Students will develop articulation skills and breathing techniques.

  • Students will learn to RESPOND to music.

  • Students will develop the ability to evaluate their personal performance of music in terms of accuracy and musicality.

  • Students will gain an understanding of what musical means.

  • Students will develop criteria to use for evaluating music performed by individuals and ensembles.

  • Students will learn to CONNECT to music.

  • Students will gain exposure to different genres of music through listening and performance.

  • Students will learn to appreciate music as an art form.

  • Students will explore the expressive nature of music as it relates to self-expression.​