Music Class Overview
In music classes, students will sing, say, move and play.
Singing comprises vocal warmups, singing known songs and creating their own songs using the solfege method.
Saying means learning to speak rhythms they read, speak rhythms they write, and say rhymes, poems and short stories with a beat.
Moving involves students performing folk dances and popular children's dances; rhythmic movements that require counting beats and moving to an ostinato pattern; scarf and ribbon dances; rhythm stick routines; and creating their own dances in small groups.
Playing instruments a vital part of music class. Pitched instruments and the grades that use them include: xylophones and metallophones (K-5), recorders (4-5), guitars (3-5), electric guitar & bass (3-5). Non-pitched instruments include drum set (3-5), hand drums (K-5), congas (2-5), various percussion instruments such as wood blocks, cowbell, jingle bells, shakers/maracas, guiros and triangles. Students learn how to play the instruments properly by reading music fragments and songs. Students are encouraged to improvise on the instruments by themselves and in small groups.
Click here to read the Content Learning Objectives (CLOs) students will work on.
Click here to practice for concerts online at home.
5th Grade Field Trip
Mrs. D and the 5th grade teachers will take 5th Grade students to hear a Colorado Symphony Concert.
The benefits of music training for brain development:
1. **Memory Improvement**: Studies indicate that engaging in music training can enhance memory capabilities, allowing individuals to retain information more effectively.
2. **Neural Connections**: Music training has been shown to increase the number of neural connections in the brain, improving overall cognitive function.
3. **Enhanced Learning**: Individuals who participate in music education often perform better academically, demonstrating improvements in subjects such as math and reading.
4. **Brain Plasticity**: Learning an instrument can foster brain plasticity, enabling continued growth and adaptability of the brain throughout one's life.
5. **Emotional Benefits**: In addition to cognitive advantages, music training can also enhance emotional well-being, providing a healthy outlet for expression and reducing stress.
6. **Lifelong Skills**: Learning to play an instrument cultivates patience, discipline, and perseverance—skills that are valuable beyond musical pursuits.
7. **Social Interaction**: Participating in music groups or ensembles encourages teamwork and social interaction, promoting social skills and emotional intelligence.
8. **Cross-Brain Activation**: Playing music requires the use of both the left and right hemispheres of the brain, leading to improved coordination between them.
Start exploring your musical talents today to reap these amazing benefits!