There should be music in the child's environment, just as there does exist in the child's environment spoken speech.
-Maria Montessori
Our Music Program
Exposure to music enriches children's lives and has many educational benefits such as helping to develop language and reasoning. The Village School music program provides opportunities for all students to experience the joy of making music. In addition to our weekly music classes for all students, we offer musical ensembles and lessons for our elementary and middle school students.
Instrumental Ensembles
Instrumental ensembles are open to Upper Elementary (Grades 4-6) and Middle School students (Grades 7-8). All instrumental ensembles require a minimum of one semester of private lessons (8 lessons) either through the Village School or through an outside instructor before joining. Each ensemble performs at the Winter and Spring Concert and throughout the school year at events such as graduation. Rehearsals are held during the school day unless otherwise noted.
Choruses
The Junior Chorus is open to all students in Upper Elementary, Grades 4-6.
The Senior Chorus is open to all students in Middle School, Grades 7-8.
Both Choruses perform two concerts throughout the school year (December and May) as well as other events such as Middle School graduation. Rehearsals are held during the school day and all interested students are welcome to join.
Orchestras
Junior Orchestra
The Junior Orchestra is open to UE and MS beginner students who have had at least one semester of lessons in brass, woodwinds, percussion or string instruments.
Senior Orchestra
The Chamber Orchestra is for more experienced UE and MS students who have been practicing an instrument in the brass, woodwind, percussion or string family for multiple years. Students must audition for the Senior Orchestra with a piece of their own and some sight reading.
Guitar Ensembles
The Junior and Senior Guitar Ensembles are open to UE and MS students who have had one semester (8 lessons) of lessons playing instruments such as ukulele, guitar, and electric bass. Students will be placed based on their ability to read music notation.
Percussion Ensemble
The Percussion Ensemble is open to UE and MS students who have had at least one semester of pitched percussion lessons (8 lessons) or two years of piano lessons (students must be able to read music notation). This is a great way for students who are studying piano to experience the fun of performing in a group. Percussion ensemble meets after school on Fridays from 3:15 to 4:00.
Instrument Lessons
Lessons are available during the school day or after school with a seasoned instructor in one of our three music practice rooms. Violin, Viola, and Cello instruction is open to all students years 2 – 8. Percussion (snare drums), Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone & Recorder instruction is open to all students in years 3 – 8. Piano is offered to students in years 1-8.