Music Instructor: Dallas Gambrell - read bio
Music Programs: Youth Choir | Chansonnaires Choir | 7th and 8th Grade Student Assignment
Students in kindergarten through eighth grade participate in vocal/general music classes. Middle school students (grades 6-8) receive choral music instruction, which is augmented with dance/movement activities. They also play classroom percussion instruments to reinforce melodic and rhythmic concepts. Due to the importance of the male voice changing during middle school, boys in grades 6-8 are instructed to sing in their appropriate voice part (treble, tenor, baritone, or bass). Girls in these grades also learn to sing in harmony, with attention given to extending the range and dynamic levels of the voice. Each spring, middle school students are prepared to participate in the Diocesan Solo/Ensemble Festival according to interest and talent levels for large choir, small ensemble, vocal solo or piano solo.
Students in primary and intermediate grades are taught musical concepts and skills using the techniques of Orff and Kodaly. Rhythmic concepts are introduced and reinforced with gross motor and locomotor movement activities. Songs from a variety of cultures and in many styles are experienced and performed.
The playing of classroom instruments is crucial in grades K-5 to enhance musical understanding and to develop higher-level thinking skills. The following instruments are played: xylophones, metallophones, glockenspiels, drums, guiro, Chinese temple blocks, tambourines, wood blocks, rhythm sticks, claves, castanets, tone blocks, and shakers. Others may be included.
Blessed Sacrament music students are selected for Regional and State Honor Choirs according to music association regulations. Auditions and academic eligibility are required for all Honor music events. |
