Music

Grades K–4

In Grades K–4, students begin their musical journey by exploring a variety of instruments and musical activities. Instruction focuses on Orff (percussion) instruments such as xylophones and recorders, along with singing games, movement, and creative play. Students learn to read and write music using both traditional and unconventional forms of notation, building foundational skills in rhythm, pitch, listening, and musical expression in a hands-on, engaging way.

Grade 5

In Grade 5, students begin learning the ukulele, further refine their music reading and writing skills, and develop new technical and ensemble skills.

Grades 6–9

In Grade 6, students may choose between two music options: rock band and studio music, with the option to take one or both. 

In Grades 7–9, students continue their music journey through studio music, which focuses on traditional concert band ensembles such as woodwind and brass instruments, or rock band. Students are also invited to participate in extracurricular after-school ensembles, such as Jazz Band, which provide additional performance opportunities and collaborative musical experiences.

Rock Band

Rock band is a segment of the music program for learners in Grades 6–9. Students of all skill and experience levels are welcome in this program.

This program focuses on collaboration with other students as they explore new instruments and form a musical group.

Grade 6

In Grade 6, students will have the chance to try all the following:

• Ukulele/guitar
• Voice
• Piano
• Drum kit

After this experimental journey, they will choose an instrument to focus on for the rest of the term and be matched with other students to form a rock band.

Grades 7–9

In Grades 7–9, students learn the roles of the following instruments in a band setting:

• Ukulele/guitar
• Voice
• Piano
• Drum kit

If a student has taken a music class in a previous year and found their instrument to be a good fit, they will be encouraged to pursue the same instrument to work towards a higher level of mastery.

Studio Music

Studio music is a segment of the music program for learners in Grades 6–9. Students of all skill and experience levels are welcome in this program.

Students in studio music participate in individual, small group and full class activities and songs that will drive their personal and musical growth.

Grade 6

In Grade 6, students will have the chance to try all the following:

• Woodwind instruments (flute, clarinet)
• Brass instruments (trumpet, trombone)
• Percussion instruments (xylophone, snare drum)

After experiencing this journey of experimentation, they will choose an instrument to focus on for the rest of the term.

Grades 7–9

In Grades 7–9, students will learn the typical roles and unique characteristics of the following families:

• String
• Woodwind
• Brass
• Percussion

If a student has taken a music class in a previous year and found their instrument to be a good fit, they will be encouraged to pursue the same instrument to work towards a higher level of mastery.

Grades 10–12

In Grades 10–12, students focus on one primary instrument—voice, string, woodwind, brass, or percussion—while deepening their technical skills and musical understanding. Students develop and apply music concepts through collaborative work, songwriting, and recording in a studio-style environment.

Using music software such as GarageBand and Logic Pro, students compose, arrange, and record original music while engaging in a deeper study of music theory, analysis, and production techniques.