MUSIC IS A LANGUAGE - Notes are symbols that represent a certain sound. That's why daily practice of reading THIS language will help you become more proficient.

Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th grades are scheduled for General Music ONCE a week for 45 minutes. 3rd graders have their classes twice a week for 30 minutes.

1st grade - We are having our first adventures with 6 of the notes and rests, learning what they are called, how many beats they are worth, and how to draw them. Basic elements of singing, such as pitch matching and participation as a group and individually are encouraged. Throughout the year, children will use rhythm instruments and experience music making through visual and oral activities.

2nd grade - We are building upon our knowledge of notes and using them to create short patterns to read.

Throughout the year, children will use pentatonic solfeggio (Do, Re, Mi, Sol, La,Do), which aids in the visual and oral representation of pitch and intervals. A special emphasis is put on writing and expression.

3rd grade - Recorders are back for the 2022-2023 year! The majority of the 3rd grade curriculum is Recorder lessons that culminate in a May performance. We will be studying rhythmic patterns, creating, body percussion, and a multitude of musical styles.

4th grade - We are building upon our knowledge of notes and values from recorder class, learning how to compose short patterns, both rhythmically and melodically. Throughout the year, children will begin using more complex music theory as well as receiving an introduction to notable composers (e.g. Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Gershwin, Tchaikovsky). A special emphasis is put on writing and appropriate vocabulary. Students are invited to join Chorus, Band, or Orchestra in 4th grade.

5th grade - We are adding to our repertoire of notes and beginning to use them in a study of musical form. Throughout the year, children will strengthen their knowledge of the note names on the staff, as well as use them in constructive compositions. Students will incorporate skills acquired in previous years to discuss different musical styles more in-depth and with advanced terminology. This year readies musicians for their transition to middle school performing ensembles.