Classroom Music
Throughout the week, we study music in the classroom at all the various grade levels.
Pre and Kinder:
At this level, we sing young, fun, songs - often with lots of actions and hand motions. Much of what we do here is preparing us to participate at Morning Assembly and weekly Mass as well. We often learn about rhythms through clapping and dance. I bring in projection elements to share musical stories and games and to study instruments from the orchestra. Sometimes I even bring tambourines... yikes! 1st and 2nd:
As we grow into "grade-schoolers" we gain the ability to read, so why not read music as well? Students at this level get to sing songs from books and screen projection, along with their other old favorites. Often, students have the opportunity to request songs during these classes. When we sing from screen projections, students take turns advancing slides with the lyrics. FUN!
3rd, 4th, and 5th:
In these grades, music really starts to cook! In 3rd grade, I introduce note taking. As I teach a "whiteboard-style" lesson, students listen and ask questions while writing notes which are later available at quiz time. My written assessments (quizzes) are always "open-note." This encourages diligent focus and rewards students for their great learning habits. Here is where we begin study musical notation, music history, song writing, and other more advanced concepts. Starting with 3rd grade, Sacred Heart Academy students are also allowed to join Elementary Choir. (See Choir pages for more!)
6th, 7th, and 8th:
In the Jr. High, we experience elements from the younger grade levels and combine them with even more advanced concepts. We study the history and theory in more detail. We look at the impact music can have in our study of lyrics and musical technique. 7th graders take up the Ukulele and share songs at the Christmas Play and Spring Festival. Jr. High students have more leadership responsibilities with regard to the mass. Find out more about that at the Jr. High Choir page.
Immersed in Music:
At Sacred Heart Academy, our integration of music immerses the students in a culture that imprints gifts and values that only music can accomplish. Each grade prepares a contribution to the Christmas Play. Students are encouraged to participate in our talent show. They have opportunities to sing solos at Mass and other events throughout the year. Students who are proficient with instruments are invited to play with the School of Rock at Morning Assembly and Mass. At Sacred Heart Academy, our hearts are filled with songs!
