home
faith scholarship service
about STM admission academics arts athletics alumni news support STM
Lower School Music
Lower School Music -

The lower school music program here at St. Martin's is an integral part of school life.
Prekindergarten & Kindergarten students have music class twice weekly where there is singing, dancing, movement and instrument play. Students even begin the basics of note reading and the children soak-up this "game" of reading like the sponges that they are at this age.

In the First, Second and Third grades the use of instruments is greatly expanded and the students enjoy the camaraderie of playing and singing in an ensemble.
Music enhances all of the "special day" programs that each grade level engages in as culminating activities in the spring. The Kindergartners learn cowboy songs and dances, the first graders sing in French for Jour de France, the second graders learn Louisiana songs, the Cajun two-step and also learn the Maypole songs and dance. The Native American Indian culture is celebrated in songs and dances to conclude the third grade social studies unit. All students participate in these events as well as in the Christmas programs and concerts. Speaking and performing in public become "second-nature" to our budding entertainers all of which builds confidence and self-assurance. The music and lives of the great composers are also an integral part of the music curriculum.

Our Fourth and Fifth grade music program allows each student to have a choice between vocal and instrumental music. Three periods per week are devoted to one musical ensemble: the Handbells, the Chorus or the Band. These ensembles provide music for many of our special events such as St. Martin's Day, Martin de Tours Award Ceremony, Christmas Programs and special chapel services. These groups also perform in the larger community at Christmas time and Easter.

Our Lower School Band focuses on initiating, and retaining fourth and fifth grade students in the art and joy of instrumental music. Students choose from a variety of instruments including: percussion, trumpet, trombone, tuba, clarinet, saxophone, flute as well as some keyboard instruments. This entry level into band is crucial. The fundamentals of music introduced through the third grade, such as reading, vocabulary, and ear training; become real life musical situations. Early on at Saint Martin's, the joy of performing for live audiences is implemented. Students are challenged in a fun and creative atmosphere. This positive foundation means students look forward to growing into Middle School Band. At St. Martin's we are in the business of training professional musicians, professional audience members, as well as educated listeners.

 



  Home  |  Contact Us  |  Search  |  A to Z  |  Forms  |  Employment  |  Privacy Policy