Band

OUR FINE ARTS VISION

Students will develop their God-given creative abilities as they reflect him by striving for excellence and glorifying God.

Music is a gift of God to us, His creatures. We, being created in the image of God, likewise have a creative nature. We therefore have the ability to create and appreciate the creation of music. Music is also a vital part of our worship of God, as we are commanded to do so throughout the Bible.  The music curriculum trains God’s people to be active participants in performing, studying, and listening to music so that they may reflect God to the world.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LEVEL

Towards the end of 4th grade, students learn about the various band instruments.  They then discuss the instruments with their parents and together decide if the student would like to learn a band instrument in the fall.  Beginning in 5th grade, the students begin learning their instrument. Instrumental group lessons are provided once a week for 20 minutes. Areas of focus include posture, breathing, embouchure, proper handling of the instrument, theory, articulation, dynamics, rhythm, and technique.  In addition to the time during group lessons, students are expected to practice at home.

MIDDLE SCHOOL LEVEL

Middle School Band is offered to students grades 6-8.  The band meets 1.5 times a week. It provides students with the opportunity to develop and stretch their musical ability and work together as a team, listening and balancing one another.  In addition, instrumental group lessons are provided once a week. Areas of focus include balance, tone, theory, scales, articulation, dynamics, rhythm, and technique. In addition to the time during band and group lessons, students are expected to practice outside of class.  The MS Band performs two concerts throughout the school year– a Christmas Concert and the SCS Music Festival. The MS Band also participates in the Music Festival in Brookfield, WI, along with all the other Wisconsin Christian schools. All band members are required to perform at least one solo or small ensemble piece in front of an adjudicator at Music Fest.  Additional performing opportunities also include Grandparents’ Day. Opportunities for summer music programs around the state are made known to the students throughout the year.

HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL

Concert Band is offered to students grades 9-12.  The band meets every day. It provides students with the opportunity to develop and stretch their musical ability and work together as a team, listening and cueing in to one another.  Areas of focus include balance, tone, theory, scales, articulation, dynamics, rhythm, and technique. In addition to the time during band, students are expected to practice outside of class.  The Concert Band performs two concerts throughout the school year– a Christmas Concert and Spring Concert. Additional performing opportunities also include Grandparents’ Day, Honor’s Band, and the WSMA Solo/Ensemble Festival.  Opportunities for scholarships and music seminars are also made known to the students throughout the year.