Chadwick’s Instrumental Music program introduces students to the world of music by giving them a chance to explore, learn and fall in love with instruments.
Each year presents new opportunities that strengthen their understanding of musical literacy, composition, pitch, rhythm and expression. As they study musical technique and practice excellence in execution, they also discover the power and beauty of artistic expression. Students are challenged and inspired to study, rehearse and perform pieces that span the classical to contemporary.
Instrumental Music
Even in Middle School instrumental music, you can’t imagine what can come from their hearts when they’re moved. … This is really where a lot of magic happens. A lot of growth intellectually and emotionally. They feel comfortable expressing those emotions.
Curriculum Overviews
Village School students study musical instruments and performance, with chances to play in the orchestra during concerts.
Chadwick’s Orchestra is open to Middle School students who have worked with an orchestral instrument for at least one year. As part of a larger musical body, they develop specific orchestral skills including ensemble technique, intonation and music reading. The ensemble traditionally performs at the winter and spring concerts. Method books are employed and students are expected to practice their instruments outside of class. Rehearsals are challenging, fast paced, and musically rewarding.
In the Upper School, instrumental music students further sharpen their musical skills by engaging in primarily performance-based activity and learning. Ensemble collaborations include music from a variety of styles and periods for winds and strings and are designed to suit the talents and interests of the students involved. Practices both in class and beyond lead up to winter and spring concert performances.
Upper and Middle School students have the opportunity to join the Chamber Music Program — a full-year activity open to students interested in smaller ensembles, like trios and quartets. These students come together each week to rehearse and ultimately perform at art show openings, the Spring Chamber Concert, and various school functions.
