Music

Music courses in the Middle School are designed to give students a broad experience in both choral and orchestral music, as well as a survey of music history and music theory. The primary focus is on acquiring techniques that will enhance their performance skills as well as prepare them for Upper School ensembles. The program includes music from a variety of cultures, countries, and languages.

Orchestra

5th Grade

Beginning Orchestra Fifth grade students begin to work toward musical literacy through the systematic study of a string instrument. Students learn basic musical notation while developing instrumental technique. Fifth grade orchestra students may choose to play the violin, viola, or cello. There are no prerequisites required to participate in fifth grade orchestra, and students who already play the violin, viola, or cello are encouraged to participate in the orchestra. Students may have an opportunity to start string bass after completing one year on the cello or upon the approval of the director.

6th Grade

Intermediate Orchestra Sixth grade orchestra is designed for students who wish to continue their study of a string instrument. Beginners may participate in the sixth grade orchestra with prior approval from the instructor and sessions with a mutually agreed upon private instructor. In the sixth grade, orchestra students continue to develop technique on their chosen instrument while gaining an even greater knowledge of the concepts of rhythm, pitch, melody, harmony, and timbre.

7th Grade

Orchestra String students in the seventh grade build on the basics through advanced string techniques and continue to fine tune basic musical skills. This is accomplished through the use of literature and music that is appropriate for developing basic musical concepts and skill levels. String students entering the seventh grade are eligible to participate in the middle school advanced orchestra.

8th Grade

Intermediate Orchestra String students entering the eighth grade orchestra grow in their understanding of advanced string techniques including, but not limited to, vibrato, shifting, and improvisation. Students continue to advance their skills while working on appropriate ensemble literature. A prerequisite for this class is seventh grade orchestra. Students in this class are also eligible to participate in the Middle School advanced orchestra.

Middle School

Advanced Orchestra Students participating in this audition-only ensemble rehearse and perform a varied repertoire spanning many different musical periods and styles at an advanced level. One to two years of experience on their instrument is a prerequisite for this class. Middle School advanced orchestra meets before school once per week.

Chorus

5th Grade Chorus

Fifth grade students explore a general music curriculum that includes development of the concepts of rhythm, pitch, melody, harmony, and timbre. They work toward music literacy by developing a knowledge of basic musical symbols and their usage as well as the ability to sight sing. Students sing in unison and two parts, and also learn the basics of beautiful choral singing, including vocal tone, breathing, and phonation.

6th Grade Chorus

In sixth grade choral music, students continue to work on proper vocal technique and sing choral literature from a variety of periods in different styles. They continue to expand their knowledge of musical symbols and their usage. They work to sustain independent part singing and to develop their sight-reading and aural skills.

7th and 8th Grade

Chorus

Students in the seventh and eighth grade chorus sing music from many different styles, cultures, and historical periods, with an emphasis on developing the ability to sing in three or more independent parts. They continue to work on improving sight singing, as well as developing good aural and pitch skills, and learning good vocal techniques.

Advanced 7th and 8th Grade

Choir

Accelerated students participating in the seventh or eighth grade chorus may audition to sing in the Advanced Choir. This group is designed to help talented students achieve at a high level. Music and Culture

7th Grade

Music and Culture (MAC) Students taking seventh grade music and culture will study a broad spectrum of music. This class is a comprehensive overview of general musical ideas, themes, history, and instruments. Students will learn different musical themes, instrumentation, and genres and participate in hands-on performances while discovering how music drives us as humans. Students learn about American, Classical, Bluegrass, and Rock and Roll music. Students create their own presentations and performances in musical styles that are appealing to them.

8th Grade

Music and Culture (MAC2) Students taking general music and culture in the eighth grade study music on a higher level and from a more global perspective. Genres and themes in musical culture will be introduced, resulting in exposure to many different musical styles. Students experience how music motivates, moves, and drives the human race and have the opportunity to participate in an ensemble performance using bells and drums in an ensemble performance using bells and drums.