There are three main components in the music department:

• Instrumental Music
• Vocal Music
• World Music

Classes are organized by grade; we have a 6th grade, 7th Grade, and 8th Grade Ensemble.

In the sixth grade, students begin with a wind instrument, such as flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, or trombone. In the second semester, students can continue with their wind instruments or switch to string instruments. Those options include violin, viola, cello, or double bass. Students also begin vocal music using Solfège sight-singing techniques (i.e., scales using “Do, Re, Mi,” etc.) Our world music unit begins with Indigenous North American and West African music.

In seventh and eighth grades, students may continue on their chosen wind or string instrument, and often play the same instrument for the remaining two years. Students also pursue other instruments, including piano, guitar, and percussion. World music continues with studies based on Cuba, India followed by Western Classical music, and Jazz in the 8th grade.

Music and Drama Classes often work on collaborative projects. Students form groups and perform songs of their choosing at lunchtime Open Mic events.