Music Education

In our Kindergarten music class, the big idea is that music is enjoyable and accessible to everyone. Activities include pitch exploration, echo songs, simple songs, movement, concert preparation, folk dance, and games.

In the First & Second grade music class, students engage in Phillips Exercises to energize their body, breath, and voice. Additionally, they explore Conversational Solfege through pattern sets, repertoire decoding, and Orff methods.

In Third grade music classes, students delve into round singing, musicianship training, and Orff techniques. Moreover, they engage in concert preparation and folk dancing to enhance their musical understanding and expression.

In 4th and 5th grade musician training, students engage in ukulele classes encompassing both individual and group instruction, along with music theory, notation, and composition. Classes are structured with dictation, group music theory, ukulele lessons, individual and group practice sessions, and in-class performances. The learning outcomes include proficiency in solfège, reading notes on the treble clef, performing solo and in groups, improvising melodies, and participation in choir activities.

In the school's Rock Band program, students experience enhanced instrumental skills, improved musicianship, and valuable ensemble experience. Success in this class hinges on doing one's best, active listening, mutual respect for peers and instruments, supportive collaboration, and most importantly, having fun!

The Birches Concert Band provides students with the opportunity to learn and perform traditional concert band music. Students receive small group instruction and participate in large ensemble rehearsals to develop their skills on instruments such as alto saxophone, flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, and percussion. The curriculum emphasizes ear and rhythm training, mastery of basic repertoire in different time signatures, major scale proficiency, and note reading on the grand staff. Through the Concert Band experience, students explore and perform larger works of music while honing their instrumental abilities.

The chorus program offers students a platform to explore vocal music and develop their singing abilities. Participants engage in vocal exercises, ensemble rehearsals, and performances to refine their skills and foster a sense of musical community. Through the chorus program, students learn vocal techniques, sight-singing, and the nuances of choral performance. The program provides opportunities for students to express themselves through music while building confidence and teamwork skills in a supportive environment.