Every day, music brings joy to our campus. Grade-level musicals, Chamber and Concert Choir, Rock Band outdoor concerts, and Instrumental music cultivate skill, discipline, and the natural connection of ensemble performance.

Primary Grades: Beat and Rhythm
In kindergarten, Music and Movement teacher Kay Bowen guides students in the Orff Approach, integrating music, dance, and narration to create a holistic learning experience. They dive into percussive instruments on their first visit to her classroom. A key focus is helping students distinguish between the beat and the rhythm. This foundational skill is emphasized through various activities. Students experience a number of percussive instruments, including triangle, tambourine, and drums. They learn proper techniques, engage in drum circles, and have the opportunity to explore their unique style. They learn to maintain a steady beat and create diverse rhythms.

Grades 3-5: Mastering Strings
In third grade, Instrumental Music teacher Nathan Atwater introduces students to the violin. Each receives their own instrument and is responsible for practicing at home and bringing their violin to school on the days they have class. The introduction includes learning the names of the different parts of the instrument, posture, bow grip, and notation reading. In fourth grade, students are given an instrument choice that they commit to through fifth grade. Students continue with the violin while others expand their skill and experience on viola, cello, or double bass.

Ensembles

Concert Choir: Grades 5-6

The Concert Choir meets as a co-curricular activity after school. Led by the Choir Director, students in this program develop their vocal skills and learn a diverse repertoire of songs. The choir performs at both the Winter and Spring concerts. Students can audition for full song solos and group songs at each concert and are welcome to join the Cantor Choir students in singing at Masses. These performances give students opportunities to showcase their talents.

Chamber Choir: Grades 7-8

Meeting after school, the Chamber Choir focuses on more complex and challenging pieces, often performing at higher-profile events both within and outside the school. The Choir Director guides students through rehearsals, voice training, and performance techniques. The choir performs at both the Winter and Spring concerts. Students can audition for full song solos and group songs at each concert and are welcome to join the Cantor Choir students in singing at Masses, school events, and local community functions. These performances give students opportunities to showcase their talents.

Prelude Strings: Grades 3-4

Prelude Strings offers students the opportunity to develop and thrive in an encouraging and rigorous musical environment. While no audition is required to join, participation is contingent on students and parent(s)/guardian(s) signing a commitment agreement and honoring it. Motivated students of all skill levels are invited to participate and share in the discipline of practice and rehearsal, as well as the joy and excitement of performance. The ensemble consists of violin, viola, cello, and double bass.

Symphonic Strings: Grades 5-8

Symphonic Strings is an intensive and nurturing string orchestra program that cultivates individual discipline and dedication, student fellowship, and a passion for excellence in performance. Rehearsals are held three times weekly before school. Students learn a variety of classical and contemporary pieces, developing their technical skills and ensemble performance abilities. Symphonic Strings performs at school concerts, community events, and local adjudicated performances, providing students with numerous performance opportunities. Students in grades 5-8 are eligible to audition. The ensemble consists of violin, viola, cello, and double bass.

Pop Rock Band: Grades 5-8

Students have the opportunity to share their passion for contemporary music with vocals and a range of instruments including guitar, electric bass, keys, and drums, in the audition-only pop rock band. The band performs throughout the year at various events, such as the Christmas Concert and the Spring Art Show.

View the Arts Curriculum