Music Curriculum
The Music curriculum at St. Simon is intended to give students a wide variety of musical experiences. Each year builds on the skills or concepts previously introduced. Since no art is created in a vacuum, but is directly related to the time and place in which it is created, historical connections and perspectives are included whenever possible. In addition to this close connection with social studies, language arts is an additional focus in our study of music. Works of children's literature are frequently used as tie-ins with musical pieces. Homeroom teachers are asked on a regular basic about special units being taught so that music can be integrated with other subjects.
Music instruction at all levels includes singing, movement games and activities, structured dance experiences, introduction of musical notations and terminology, listening lessons, improvisation, use of percussion instruments, elements of drama, and exposure to music of other cultures. Recorders are taught in the 3rd grade and are reviewed in the 6th grade. The 5th grade acts as the school choir and leads the congregation in singing at school liturgies. They also represent St. Simon at the annual Diocesan Choral Festival. The 7th grade curriculum includes study of significant composers of European and American classical music. The 8th grade curriculum includes the study of jazz styles and the musicians who composed or played it.