Putnam Valley MUSIC DEPT 

OUR HISTORY/MISSION

Putnam Valley has had a long history of providing high quality music education to all students. Our school community is proud of our music program and our students have great opportunities to take part in a level of music instruction that best meets their own individual needs. After being exposed to a rich general music curriculum in the early years, students begin to sing and play instruments in later elementary school. Our 4th grade band program is one of the shining jewels of our program. All students are encouraged to learn to play a musical instrument. 

Exposure to higher-level learning continues through middle school where students can participate in a variety of musical ensembles. Group lessons are a major component of our program. In middle school students can also become involved in musical theater and jazz ensembles. Our program also encourages student participation in NYSSMA solo and ensemble festivals as well as various regional and county festivals. 

In high school, music students have even more opportunities to hone their craft. There are a multitude of ensembles to choose from as well as exposure to our award winning theater program. Jazz ensemble, guitar club, pit orchestra, piano class are just a few of the offerings that many students take advantage of. In 11th grade students can enroll in our International Baccalaureate (IB) program where they can opt into IB Music for a much deeper exploration of all things musical. Many of our students go onto study music in college, while most continue to benefit from the many healthy enjoyments of being lifelong music makers. With District and community support of music education, Putnam Valley has received the BEST COMMUNITIES FOR MUSIC EDUCATION AWARD for over a decade. We are proud of our program and students and encourage all of our school and local community to get involved and support the arts in Putnam Valley.