On a daily basis, young elementary students are exposed to music in as many forms as possible. Each class period includes a variety of activities such as singing, rhythm reading, dancing, playing instruments, listening to music, and various games. Students in grades K-1 come to music class twice a week for 30 minutes, while 2nd-4th grade students attend music class twice week for 40 minutes. Kdg-4th grade students present two concerts during the school year: a winter concert in December, and a spring concert in March.
In 5th/6th grade, students attend music class in two different settings during the week: "general music class" maintains a focus on music concepts & skills, while a weekly combined class period introduces students to the foundations of choral singing.
The 5/6 Beginning Choir performs in two home concerts during the year: a fall concert at the end of November and a spring concert in May. Additional performance opportunities may include the Senior Citizen holiday meals, Pack the Gym Night, UNI Elementary Honor Choir, NEICDA 5th & 6th Grade Honor Choir, and potential trips to Maple Crest Manor.
West Central students have the option to join band starting in 5th grade. This is an excellent opportunity to extend the students knowledge and ability in music. Band rehearsals occur twice a week and all band students students attend a weekly small group lesson. 5th & 6th grade students who play in band perform in three concerts throughout the year: November, March, and May.
All 7th and 8th grade students are required to participate in vocal music (choir) for the 1st semester, then they are given a choice of whether or not they will continue with choir for the 2nd semester. The 7/8 men and women rehearse and perform separately for the 1st semester and transition to a performing ensemble of combined bass and treble voices in the 2nd semester. Students complete complementary assignments on Google Classroom along with preparing repertoire for upcoming performances. This age group has three home concerts during the school year, plus the Upper Iowa Conference Vocal Festival in May. There are optional honor choir opportunities for these students: Ritter Sing (Bass Clef Voices), UNI Treble Choir, and the NEICDA 7th & 8th Grade Honor Choir.
7th and 8th grade students have the option to continue with band, building upon the successes of years prior. New opportunities for 7th and 8th grade band students include preparing a solo, performing in the WC Homecoming parade, and participating with the WC pep band at HS sporting events.
All 7th/8th grade music ensemble rehearsals occur during 1st period.
Band rehearses Monday/Wednesday
Bass Clef (Men's) Choir rehearses Tuesday
Treble Clef (Women's) Choir rehearses Thursday
Friday is a rotation of the three ensembles.
High School Choir at West Central is an elective academic class. Rehearsals occur daily during 4th period. High school choir students are automatically enrolled in voice lessons and must attend 5 per quarter unless otherwise determined by the director. This ensemble averages one major performance per quarter, with various smaller events here and there. In addition, students are encouraged to pursue other optional events, including performances of the National Anthem, the fall musical, and honor choir festivals.
Like choir, High School Band is an elective academic class. Rehearsals occur daily during 5th period. While concert band comprises the majority of the school year, all students participate in marching band during the fall football season. WC Band members also perform for the annual Veteran's Day assembly, Memorial Day performances in Maynard and Westgate, and Maynard Days.