Music Curriculum

Every child ages K – 6 receives general music instruction totaling one hour a week in two half hour sessions with the exception of half day Kindergarten which receives half an hour a week. Our curriculum includes all the basic elements of music including Melody, Harmony, Texture, Timbre, Form, Rhythm, Tempo, Pitch, Dynamics & Mood. 

Music integrates well into many other subject areas and has been proven to enrich a child’s understanding in other disciplines, increasing IQ and comprehension. This can be demonstrated most notably in Language Arts, Math, Social Studies and the Sciences. I believe that wherever possible it is in the child’s best interest to integrate the general music curriculum with classroom subject matter.  

Primary students in general music at Briarcrest (K-3) learn about music through playing classroom instruments, singing, moving and playing musical games that reinforce musical concepts. We also study, listen to and perform music from cultures around the world. 

Intermediate students build their knowledge by continuing to play classroom instruments and through song. Intermediate students study and perform dances from around the world. We also enhance our Social Studies Curriculum through listening to and performing the music of the world. Intermediate students study the science of sound and learn the basic symbols and concepts needed to begin to read music. All fourth graders learn to play the recorder in anticipation of our Band and Orchestra programs.

5th and 6th grade students at Briarcrest have an added opportunity to Participate in Beginning and Intermediate Band and Orchestra offered during the school day. Briarcrest Band and Orchestra meet twice a week for 45 minutes.