Elementary Music Program |
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Music is essential to a balanced Christian education. Many references can be found in the Bible to the importance of music, beginning with the musicians of David’s time, who were well trained in preparation for their vital role in Temple worship. In both the Old and New Testament there is a record of how music was not only a vital part of Worship, but also a cornerstone of Civic celebrations, a source of healing in times of distress and mourning, and an expression of personal enjoyment. It quickly becomes clear that God has given emphasis to music as a part of every individual’s life.
Music, as one of the fine arts, is unlike most other subjects taught in the Christian school. Certainly, there is an intellectual aspect, with a specific symbols, theoretical basis, and historical background, but musical learning develops the more creative and integrative functions of the mind.
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PRE-SCHOOL and KINDERGARTEN - Even with our youngest students, we stress an active approach to learning music through singing, playing, listening, and moving activities. The children are introduced to the various rhythm instruments.
FIRST GRADE - As we explore melody, the children learn Solfege, the names and hand signs for the scale. Use of singing, playing, listening, moving, and iconic reading/writing activities, assist them in the grasp of musical concepts. Rhythm instruments help in understanding concepts such as loud/soft and fast/slow. First graders are also introduced to the four families of orchestra instruments.
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SECOND GRADE - Children at this age are ready to move into more abstract thinking. Through the year we move from iconic symbols for melody to the introduction of notes on a traditional five-line staff. As we begin to introduce the concept of harmony, the children learn to play the autoharp.
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THIRD GRADE - Because most third graders are still learning primarily from concrete experiences, we are still activity oriented. We hone our listening skills through more detailed study of instruments and the orchestra. As understanding of notation increases, a simple woodwind instrument, the recorder, is introduced.
FOURTH GRADE - Music for fourth graders is still activity oriented. Understanding of notation is strengthened through continued use of recorders, and listening skills are further refined as we explore Musical Elements. Fourth grade students research the lives of famous composers
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FIFTH GRADE - Since fifth graders are still learning through concrete experiences, we continue to learn through hands-on activities. We enjoy a fun unit on “Acoustics - the Science of Sound”, and understanding of notation is heightened as we move to keyboards.
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PERFORMANCE
At Hope Christian Elementary, children at every grade level from pre-school through fifth grade participate at some point during the school year in a musical production. Not only is this an exciting learning experience, but, because each musical is carefully chosen, we believe that vital and lasting Biblical concepts will be instilled.
When students are actively involved in a project, they tend to absorb information and skills that might otherwise be missed if they are simply passive receivers of facts and lectures. Through a musical, the students are able to see how music can be used to set the mood, move the plot, and manipulate emotions. Because staging and choreography is involved, they also have an opportunity to develop their kinetic skills. The creating of a performance venue can incorporate the talents of every child. At the fifth grade level, students are given the opportunity to function in off-stage capacities, such as sound technicians, spotlight operators, stage hands, wardrobe, make-up teams.
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TALENT WEEK
Perhaps the most anticipated event for many students is Talent Week, which occurs twice during the school year. Students are invited to perform for their class and we are entertained by singers, instrumentalists, magicians, comedians, martial artists, and so much more! Participants have even brought in DVD’s of their special activities outside of school.
This provides the audience an opportunity to learn more about the performer, and even better, provides the performer an opportunity to build their confidence in front of an audience. Not every child will go on to sing or dance in adulthood, but without a doubt, every child will some day find themself in a situation where they must make a speech or presentation. Building confidence in front of our peers...priceless!
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