our seventh grade program
Music
The Seventh Grade Music classes focus on the essential question, “How does music help us to get order in our own world?” Students explored the “form” of music and how repetition creates form. They perform harmonic and rhythmic repetitions called ostinatos on xylophones and guitars, and compose and perform pieces using these patterns. The roots of Jazz are explored and researched as part of a multi-step project. Forms of music from the early 50s to present day are studied. Students then compose a piece of music from a specific era using the techniques specific to that time.
Seventh Graders often begin class listening to music representing different styles and genres and keep a listening log that includes the name of the piece, its composer, the composition date, a list of the instruments and musical techniques used, and peer reaction to the piece. Students sing during class and are encouraged to take solos in order to become comfortable when performing.
Seventh Graders' final music project is "Battle of the Bands. Students create a group to write a song, or perform an already-written song. Each group performs in front of the full class and is judged by a panel of teachers. The teachers offer creative criticism and help decide which is the top band.