The Power of Music Education

Studies demonstrate that music education dramatically increases early brain development and improves overall academic performance. The SJS music classroom is one that has an atmosphere of experiential learning based on the fundamentals of music with hands-on activities that include singing, playing instruments and moving to and creating music. There are two concerts per year – one at Christmas time and VIP Day in the spring.

• Primary Music focuses on developing basic music concepts of beat, rhythm, and melody. Students use movement, song, composition, and the playing of classroom instruments to demonstrate their understanding. Beginning in preschool, students build upon these music concepts using various modes of learning throughout grades K through 4. Students in grades 3 and 4 also learn how to play the recorder and read music.

   

• Intermediate Music focuses on the study of musicals, music composition, and music appreciation. 5th grade completes a unit in theatre performance for the Christmas Program Performance. Grades 5-8 study the elements of music and learn basic music theory during music appreciation units.

   

• Grade 8 students learn a combined rhythm and movement study in collaboration with Gym Class, leading up to a Gr. 8 Valentine’s Dance in February.