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The aim of the general music program is to develop
within each child the musical skills, which will allow him/her to
understand and enjoy music. Educational
research indicates that music understanding comes through a sequential
learning experience that parallels the development of language.
It is this sequence that we follow in our teaching.
Musical understanding is directly related to the depth and quality
of musical skills
Each
middle school student is, therefore, expected to work to their fullest
potential in rhythm, tonal, and vocal skills.
The core of the general music curriculum is singing, tonal, and
rhythm skill improvement. It
is through singing, tonal, and rhythm reading that one begins to
understand music. Students
are also exposed to music theory and cultural/historical information. |
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Sixth Grade General Music
Sixth grade music will continue the tonal and rhythm skill study
begun in the elementary school. The
classes will concentrate on proper use of the singing voice and executive
skills. These skills include posture, correct breathing, use of the
head voice, vowel purity, and consonant clarity.
Students will sing unison and 2-part music. In addition, students will write and perform a rhythmic
composition as well as study musical symbols and terms.
The majority of class time is spent on singing and singing-related
activities.
Seventh Grade General Music
Seventh grade music further develops vocal executive skills and
practice of tonal and rhythm patterns.
There will be an in-depth study of the evolution of Jazz beginning
with Blues, Call & Response, Gospels, and Spirituals.
Students will sing songs which reflect these genres.
In conjunction with the study of Jazz, students will learn to play
electric keyboards. They will
demonstrate their ability to play major, minor, and blues scales as well
as chords, 12 bar blues, and simple piano accompaniments.
Eighth
Grade General Music
Eighth
grade music continues to develop vocal executive skills and practice of
tonal and rhythm patterns. There will be an in-depth study of the evolution of American
Musical Theater. The musicals
Showboat, Oklahoma, and Into The Woods will be viewed and all aspects of
those productions discussed. As
an extension of this study, students will be required to choose a musical
for a research project.
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