In Entrance Class through Grade 2 music is taught as part of the homeroom hours – students sing songs and rounds in English and German and meet in a big grade level singing circle once a week.
Starting in 3rd grade students have one hour of Music instruction taught by a specialist in one of the JFKS Music rooms. They can choose to participate in the 3rd/4th Grade choir as an after school activity, or join the Recorder or Boomwhacker Ensemble.
The 5th grade Music Program combines General Music class taught once a week and Music Elective class (Beginning Band or Orchestra, Advanced Strings, or Applied Music) also taught once a week by a music specialist. The Music Elective Class is designed to apply the core music curriculum through ensemble music experience and gives the students the opportunity to learn an instrument. Instruments and lessons are provided by the school during 5th grade, afterwards students need to obtain their own instruments and are encouraged to take lessons outside of school if they wish to continue.
In addition to the required music classes, there are music activities as part of the 5th Grade activities program. These activities include: Advanced Band or Orchestra for more experienced players, 5th Grade Choir, and Kammerchor (3rd-6th Grade).
In 6th grade students have one General Music class per week taught by a Music specialist, complemented by one hour of applied music instruction in choral ensemble singing. During this class period students may choose to be in the choir, an ensemble with required public performances at concerts and the stage musical, or an ensemble with no required public performances.
In addition to the required music classes, there are music activities as part of the 6th Grade activities program. These activities include: Advanced Band or Orchestra, Jazz Band (6th-8th grades), Small Ensemble, and Kammerchor (3rd-6th grades).
