Middle School Music
Fifth Grade Music
The 5th grade music program offers an introduction to both vocal and instrumental ensemble work. Students meet for music four times a cycle and in a combination of small group and full ensemble rehearsals. Students learn both the basics of choral singing and also have an introduction to band on an instrument chosen in consultation with the band instructor.
Choral Program
In the choral classrooms, students acquire habits that promote discipline, cooperation, and personal responsibility as an integral part of the ensemble.Through a range of vocal and musical exercises, students learn to establish healthy vocal habits as well as to sight read music, follow a choral score, and conduct. In addition, performance repertoire encompasses a variety of musical styles and cultures sung in several parts and different languages. The choral curriculum includes three formal concerts during the year and several opportunities for informal school and community performances. Students in the seventh and eighth grade Concert Chorus may audition for the select group, the CubScats. In addition, the seventh and eighth graders mount a full-scale musical each spring Recent productions include Peter Pan, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Seussical, Into the Woods, Once On This Island, The Music Man, Fiddler on the Roof and Godspell.
Click here to see pictures from the 2013 7/8th grade musical, Peter Pan.
Instrumental Program
The bands provide an opportunity for students to participate in an instrumental ensemble on wind, brass and percussion instruments. Through classroom instruction, a band method books/ technique books and appropriate concert repertoire, students develop a solid skill base to interpret and perform ensemble literature. The instrumental music curriculum includes three formal concerts during the year along with other informal opportunities. In addition, students of the Seventh/Eighth Grade Concert Band have the opportunity to audition for the select, Middle School Jazz Band.
Chamber Music Program
Rye Country Day School also offers a extra-curricular Collaborative Music Program for instrumentalists interested in playing in small chamber ensembles. String players, wind and brass players and pianists are placed groups with other musicians appropriately matched to their level. They work with a musical coach on repertoire specifically chosen for their ensemble. If you are an RCDS student interested taking in the Chamber Music Program, please call: 914-925-4580.
Private Lesson Program
Rye Country Day School has a private lesson program with thirteen outstanding teachers offering lessons in wind, brass, percussion, guitar, bass, voice and piano. All of our teachers are experts in their field both as teachers and as active working performers. By day they are committed, inspiring teachers and come evening, they fill the stages of many of New York’s best musical venues. Read this document for more information. If you are an RCDS student interested taking private lessons, please call: 914-925-4580. Download the brochure and registration form.
Festival Chorus -- Come sing with us!
Adult community members who are interested click here for more information about the Festival Chorus.
