General Music Classes K-8

General music classes at St. Paul are required for all K-8 students. There are several aspects to these classes:

• Singing (our worship and witness)

  • Advent (midweek services in December)

  • Lent (midweek services prior to Easter)

  • Lutheran Schools’ Week (end of February/first of March)

  • Spring Musical (May, Grades 3-8)

  • Kindergarten Program (May)

• Music Appreciation and Fundamentals (varies by grade) such as:

  • Study of instruments and instrument families

  • Music theory

  • American music

  • Composer studies

  • Listening to and interpreting classical music

  • Conducting

  • Form (such as writing variations on a theme)

  • Multi-cultural music

Recorder Classes (4th grade only)

Recorder classes at St. Paul are instrumental in teaching students to read music in preparation for band in 5-8th grades. Recorder class meets each week at a separate time from the general music classes. Heavy emphasis is on learning to play this beginning woodwind instrument. In the spring students have the opportunity to try out band instruments before making a decision to be in during 5th grade.

Band (grades 5-8)

Band at St. Paul is a great opportunity for a child to grow in the musical aspect of playing an instrument and being part of a team. The 5th grade band meets as a beginner class for a year. The 6th , 7th , and 8th grade band meets as one band class where more proficient music is learned and performed throughout the school year at events such as Advent and Lent midweek services, the mall during the Christmas season, and 8th grade graduation. Many solo and ensemble opportunities are possible as well. They include playing for weekly chapel services, Lutheran Schools Week worship service, and Gathering of the Talents. Both bands perform at the annual concert/dinner/fundraiser at the end of the school year.

Much thought and effort is given to provide a variety of musical experiences for each student. It is also our priority to give God the glory for the gifts and talents He has given each of His children and to provide an opportunity for them to hone their skills and share their music with others. In addition to the classes, for many students this may mean trying out for a speaking part or a solo in the spring musical, reaching gold medal in Recorder Karate, performing with the band at a Christmas concert in the community, etc. As it says in Psalm 92:1-2 “It is good to make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim Your love in the morning and Your faithfulness at night”. May God bless our efforts done in His name!!