Music
Music: In Grade 7, students receive a 'Performing' course called Introduction to Piano. This is a “move at your own pace" piano course that is appropriate for students who have never played the piano before as well as students who study piano privately outside of school. The class learns about music theory and music literacy elements as a full group and students apply that knowledge while working on repertoire individually at their piano stations. In Grade 8, students take their music composition skills to the next level by applying them in a music technology course called Soundtrack Creation. In this course students learn about the role of music in movies and video games. Student projects may include narrated spooky stories with scary soundtracks, video game soundtracks, anime battle music, and news themes. In addition to these core offerings, students are also able to take Chorus and/or Band as additional performance opportunities.
Band: Band is offered to students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. Band class meets every other day opposite P.E. for each grade level. Students in band also participate in bi-weekly lessons as part of the curriculum. This class fosters collaboration and teamwork through dynamic ensemble playing of music drawn from a variety of composers and styles. Students participate in regular rehearsals and perform in at least three annual performances: the Winter concert, Fine Arts Night, and the Spring concert. Through ensemble participation, students build confidence, listening skills, discipline, and musical literacy. Other playing opportunities include the VCMS jazz band and participation in the Eastern Regional Middle School festival. Join the band to learn, play, and grow together as a musical team!
Chorus: The middle school chorus is offered to students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Chorus rehearsals are held during Eagle Time. Students explore various styles of music and perform three times a year: at the Winter concert, Fine Arts night, and the Spring concert.