Music
Lower School Music Program
The JK-1st Music Program lays a strong foundation for early elementary music education, providing valuable skills for students’ future musical growth. In this program, students develop healthy singing techniques based on scientific and pedagogical approaches. They explore and appreciate music with various instruments such as Xylophone, handbell, and percussion instruments while learning foundational music theory and history. These skills prepare students for upper-grade musical activities such as string ensembles and band participation.
The instrumental music program in 2nd through 5th grade highlights performance as well as the use of instruments as a teaching tool for composition and music theory. Beginning in grade 2 with violin instruction, each grade builds on the musicianship and music literacy learned in the Jr. K-1st grade program. The 3rd grade Recorder Karate program includes fun incentives for students to develop practice routines at home, while the 4th grade ukulele program fosters deeper musicianship training as students learn to sing and self-accompany. There is meaningful and cumulative growth between the grade levels, however, the programs are designed to also stand alone to provide a practical starting point for each new school year. Lower School Music culminates in the 5th Grade concert band where students learn the balance of a diverse ensemble and meet the challenges of collaborative musicianship.
Upper School Music Program
The Music program at QLS is structured to give students a foundational music education on the instrument of their choice, as well as a background in music history and music theory. Students choose their instrument in 5th grade (woodwind, brass, or percussion), and learn to play the instrument, read music, and develop a home practice routine. In 6th grade, students have the option of joining the one semester MS Concert Band- where they can develop their skills on their instrument from 5th grade-or choose a new instrument. In 7-8th grades, students can audition for the year-long Symphonic Band, which consists of the more advanced MS instrumentalists. In High School, students can audition for the Jazz Band, which focuses on instrumental skills, improvisation, jazz and popular music styles. HS Students can also participate in one of the QLS Club Bands. These are student-led groups (mentored by Mr. Hansen), and the current line up is Rock Band Club, Ska Band Club, and Chamber Ensemble Club.
