ELEMENTARY MUSIC PROGRAM

The emphasis at the elementary level is for students to be actively involved as they participate in the learning process.

GENERAL MUSIC PROGRAM

Students in Pre-Kindergarten through grade 5 participate in the general music program.
General music activities are primarily designed to promote growth in musical skills such as tone matching, beat competency, understanding of notation, and the development of instrumental techniques. These activities also will promote growth in auditory discrimination, auditory memory, eye-hand coordination, sequencing, and awareness of laterality.

Forms of Expression Elements of Music

• Verbal expression
• Rhythm
• Musical expression
• Melody
• Corporeal expression
• Harmony, Timbre, Form Techniques Goals of the Program
• Rhythmic and free speech
• Reading music
• Singing and playing instruments
• Writing music
• Free and set movement
• Performing music
• Analyzing music
• Creating music

• Students will develop music skills that produce performance competencies that are appropriate to the students’ musical experience, development, and potential.

• Students will develop life skills such as teamwork, self-discipline, concentration and commitment, as well as coordination of muscle motor groups, visual and auditory development, positive self-image and listening skills, selfexpression, and creativity.

• Students will develop an appreciation for music through hands-on experiences and listening to foster aesthetic awareness, enjoyment of the arts and exposure to a wide range of musical styles.

Elective Music Program

Beginning in third grade, students may choose to participate in the string instrumental program, where they will learn how to play the violin, viola, cello or bass.

In the fourth grade, students may participate in the band instrumental program, where they have the choice of learning how to play the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, French horn, bass clarinet, or percussion (drums) instruments.

Students in the instrumental program receive one lesson per week with a certified instrumental music teacher. Once students reach a level of competency, they become members of the elementary band or orchestra. Band and orchestra classes have one rehearsal each week.

Fourth grade students also may elect to participate in the choral program offered at each elementary school. Students in chorus rehearse once a week with the general music teacher.

Elementary students who are in chorus, band, and string programs participate in school concerts, All City concerts, and in-house NYSSMA festivals.