Grade Level Information
Kindergarten
In Kindergarten, we start out the year singing familiar folk songs that most children recognize from home or preschool. We add seasonal songs that get the children moving and keeping a steady beat. From there we get ready to become "musical detectives" who look for musical clues in our songs, poems, and visuals. The students learn foundational vocabulary to help them describe what they hear, all while learning to use their "best, most beautiful singing voice" in an attempt to be life-long musicians! We focus on tempo, dynamics, tone color, and texture. Our youngest musicians thrive on movement, so we are sure to sing and dance in every class!
First Grade
In First Grade, we continue to be musical detectives, but we delve a little deeper into analytical music. Students learn how to read and write basic rhythmic symbols and practice this throughout the year. They also continue to add to the word wall and discover such musical elements as pitch, tone color and rhythm. One of the most exciting parts of First Grade Music is when we study Sergei Prokofiev's "Peter and the Wolf" -- a musical story told through music. This unit allows us to learn about the instrument families and the different sounds each instrument make.
Second Grade
In Second Grade, our musical detectives are really honing their skills, reading and writing more difficult rhythms while learning about the musical concepts of form and style. Second Graders also study two larger works -- "The Nutcracker Ballet" by Pyotr Tchaikovsky and "Carnival of the Animals" by Camille Saint-Saens. The students learn to recognize various dances and movements from these large works, using their knowledge and vocabulary words from Kindergarten and First Grade to take part in musical discussions about the music. We still make sure to dance and move, often acting out these songs to help solidify their learning.
Third Grade
In Third Grade, we continue our musical journey with more singing, movement activities, and new rhythm symbols. Third Graders also study some of our great patriotic songs and will focus on both the music and history of a new patriotic song each quarter. The students will also prepare for Fourth Grade Chorus by learning rounds and partner songs. We still make sure to dance and move, and will experience several folk dances from around the world.