Early Childhood
Preschool and Pre-kindergarten music includes an exploration of rhythm through singing, movement and games. We also are developing singing skills through matching pitch through the use of echo songs. The Pre-kindergarten children play “Keep the Beat” each class period; this consists of doing clapping and tapping patterns to pre-recorded pieces of classical music. We explore creative movement through the use of colored streamers to musical accompaniment. There is an expanding body of research showing the beneficial effects of music and rhythmic movement on the brain development of toddlers and preschoolers. Let’s fan the flame!

Elementary
Music at the Elementary level incorporates a further exploration of rhythm and developing music reading skills through singing, interactive software exercises, playing “Rhythm Bingo” and “Keep the Beat”. The elementary grades also begin ringing the hand chimes in a more structured way. Developing greater skills in singing and pitch discrimination is a constant goal that we pursue through formal singing and solfeggio (do-re-mi-fa-sol-la-ti-do) singing. Grades 2-5 share and practice their music skills in the community. They play hand chimes and sing Christmas carols at the Evergreen Life Care Senior Center annually as a way of bringing a meaningful social dimension to our study of music. All students take music fieldtrips, such as the Colorado Symphony, to heighten their appreciation of music and the families of instruments.

Middle School
The music program pursues an increased level of performance opportunities for the students. The students have opportunities in hand-bells and chorus. Two class periods a week are dedicated to the music program for each student. Students will have opportunities to perform both within and outside of the school community.