Saratoga Elementary Music Programs

 

The SUSD provides a limited music program during the school day using the services of a music specialist. The music specialist engages the students in weekly high quality and varied experiences in singing, playing instruments (pitched and unpitched percussion and recorders), music appreciation, drama, performance, multi-cutural, seasonal and folk music, reading and notating music, and composition. Kodaly, Orff, and traditional methods are used. Students are introduced to and practice using the language of music in their discussions of composers and musical performances. Students in grades K-3 receive 30 minutes per week. Students in grades 3-5 receive instruction 45 minutes weekly. In addition, students in grades 4-5 in the district elementary choir meets weekly after school. This program is funded by the Saratoga Education Foundation (SEF).

SMB funds provide two elementary school programs: Beginning Orchestra and Beginning Band. Both groups meet Tuesday. - Thursday mornings from 7:00-8:00 a.m. at Argonaut.


SUSD String Orchestras Perform at Schools

Students from the beginning and advanced string orchestras had a unique opportunity to perform for their friends and teachers. On Thursday, May 22nd, the two performed half-hour assemblies at Foothill School and Argonaut School.

The Beginning Orchestra warmed up the young crowd with "Mary had a Little Lamb" and "Czech Folk Song Suite" followed by a joint piece with the Advanced Orchestra entitled "Happy Blues". The advanced Orchestra entertained the audience with more complex pieces of music and delighted the crowd with an impressive rendition of the "Pink Panther". The appearance of High School Principal Skelly (behind a Pink Panther mask) during this piece was greeted with exuberant squeals and giggles from the primary students.

This is the first time in its thirteen year history that a performance like this has been organized for the SUSD strings. This pilot effort was well received at the two schools. Our budding young musicians reported feeling proud to perform for their peers. It was a great opportunity for the other students to see first hand what the students in Beginning Orchestra accomplish, and how much they learn by the time they transition to Advanced Orchestra.

Thank you to Anjali and the orchestra parents for organizing this event.