Music
MUSIC CURRICULUM
The Corte Madera Music curriculum is developed based on California State Standards, in alignment with PVSD's goals and priorities. All of our students are provided a high-quality program that motivates, engages, and challenges them to be excellent musicians, listeners, and ensemble members.
General Music 4
Students will explore a variety of music topics to develop their skills in playing, singing, listening, creating, and evaluating their work. Students meet twice a week and explore topics such as Gold Rush songs, the Blues, recorder playing technique, harmony, music technology and composition, basic keyboard, and music theory.
Choir 4/5
Choir is an optional additional music class for 4th and 5th graders. Students who participate in choral ensembles learn not only learn to be better musicians, but also how to listen and respond to others, how to be a good team member, and how to critique themselves and others in a constructive and positive way. This is a performing ensemble that is featured in two annual concerts, and meets twice a week before school.
General Music 6
This music class features in-depth studies of music in four areas: World Music, Vocal Music, Musical Theater, and Music Composition and Video. The class meets every other day and is an alternative to Band 6.
Panache (6/7/8 Choir)
Panache is an optional additional music class for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Students who participate in choral ensembles learn not only learn to be better musicians, but also how to listen and respond to others, how to be a good team member, and how to critique themselves and others in a constructive and positive way. This is an intermediate/advanced performing ensemble that is featured in several annual concerts and festivals, and meets twice a week before school.
Band 5
In beginning band, we explore the beginnings of instrumental music and apply the skills acquired throughout the semester to learning new band instruments. Along with these skills, we will explore different cultures, languages, and forms of expression. When put together, the abilities listed above mold students into expressive musicians.
Textbook used: Standard Book of Excellence Book 1
Band 6
In sixth grade band, we continue to develop the necessary skills to play instruments as well as explore instrumental music. We will familiarize ourselves with different cultures, languages, and forms of expression. When put together, these abilities mold students into expressive musicians.
Textbook used: Standard Book of Excellence Book 1-2
Band 7
Seventh-grade band continues to develop the necessary skills to play band instruments as well as explore instrumental music. Students will become familiar with different cultures, languages, and forms of expression. When put together, these abilities mold students into expressive musicians.
Textbook used: Standard Book of Excellence Book 2
Band 8
In eighth grade band, students work to refine their craft. We focus on playing all music with expression and musical accuracy. The literature selected affords students the opportunity to experience many genres and styles of music. In learning diverse styles, students broaden their knowledge of playing techniques for each genre.
Textbook used: Standard Book of Excellence Book 3
Wind Ensemble
Wind Ensemble is an auditioned band for middle school students. Throughout the year we work to develop a higher level of musicianship and musical maturity through playing advanced literature. Students also seek to develop and grow their range, refine tone, and hone articulation styles.
Textbook used: Foundations for Superior Performance
Useful Links
Guardians practice "cheat sheet"
Music Teacher Directory
Juliet Green
jgreen@pvsd.net
General Music/Choirs
Mrs. Bol Leonard
jbol@pvsd.net
Instrumental Music 5-8