Learning to read and fully appreciate music in all its forms to God’s glory is a priority at GCS. Students in all music classes learn to read and write music appropriate for their level, practice practical vocal techniques, and learn music history. Students will also experience music from various world cultures in addition to learning a diverse repertoire of choral songs.
Students K-5 are required to be in music and choir, where sound foundational reading skills are established. In 3rd grade, students also learn to play the recorder as part of their music curriculum. K-3rd grade students take part in two programs throughout the school year, one at Christmas and one in the Spring.
In 4th grade, students are given the opportunity to begin learning a band instrument as an extracurricular class. 4th-8th grade bands and choirs perform in three programs throughout the school year: the Christmas program (in December), Fine Arts program (in March), and Spring program (in May).
Both choir and band are electives in Middle School. Musical rigor is higher in these groups, and students learn to sight-read in addition to the prepared repertoire. At the end of the year, students attend a festival in Hershey Park, PA, to be officially adjudicated on their prepared pieces at the end of the year. Other music opportunities may be available to these students as well, such as playing at Baysox Stadium and parades in the area.
