The Ross Valley School District values music as a vital part of every child’s education. Each student participates in, and is exposed to a broad range of music from many historical periods and many places around the world. Equally important, each child participates in creative movement, musical improvisation and composition. The goal is to provide children in Kindergarten through 5th grade with a multifaceted, engaging music education that promotes an understanding of all forms of music; emphasizes the importance of music in our lives; explores various types of music in history, contemporary society and world cultures; provides the development of music reading skills; and encourages personal success through the exploration of advanced instrumental and vocal music.
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Instrumental and choral music are cornerstones of our comprehensive program. Students are introduced to instruments in grades K-3 through the use of xylophones, drums, mallets and other percussion instruments. Hands-on exposure to instruments continues in 4th grade with an introduction to orchestral strings (violin and cello) and wind instruments (recorder). During fifth grade, students choose a year-long study of either choral music, or of one instrument (flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, violin, or cello). In middle school, students may elect to take YES-funded music ensemble classes: Concert Choir, Coro Forte, Bella Voce, Jazz Band, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Intermediate Orchestra and Advanced Orchestra.