The music program in the primary classroom emphasizes a well rounded exposure to various forms of music and instrumentation. A great deal of time is spent developing a sense of rhythm with exercises in clapping, drumming, and marching. The majority of class time is spent singing to develop a joy of music and vocal stability. Breathing exercises, tongue twisters and singing in rounds help develop technical skills. Notation of both rhythmic note value and letter names in the bass and treble clef is practiced, and learning to hear major and minor chords is the beginning of ear training.
Integrated into History units in Main Lesson, is the study of music history. Children learn how music developed in the Western World and how it differs in other places and cultures.
Upper Level
In the higher grades, students
spend more time learning music theory: notation, tonal centers and chord
structure. Melodies are written and set
to lyric. Singing focuses on tonal
quality and harmonizing. Students also
study the various historical periods of Western Music and the qualities that
make each period distinct. Major
composers from each period are highlighted and the connections to Art History
are made. Beginning in sixth grade,
students study the piano, guitar and percussion, and other instruments of their
choice, in collaboration with Wells College.
Instrumental music focuses on contemporary popular music and accompaniments.
