Music

Chorus is offered as an elective to all sixth, seventh and eighth graders regardless of previous musical training or experience. Students work on vocal technique, ensemble activities, basic score reading, harmonization, creative expression and presentation skills. It is a performance-oriented activity. Singers perform in three major concerts and some special events. Musical challenges are provided which are appropriate to the development and ability levels of each group. The Frances C. Richmond School has four choral groups: Sixth Grade Soprano/Alto, 7th Grade Soprano/Alto, Eighth Grade Soprano/Alto , and Seventh and Eighth grade Tenor/Baritones.

This yearlong music ensemble for seventh and eighth grade students is dedicated to playing all forms of jazz music. Jazz Band allows students to explore musical forms that are highly improvised. By learning to improvise on their instruments, students develop skills for self-expression that are not fostered in traditional Concert Band. The Jazz Band performs 3-4 concerts a year, and auditions are held each year for new members. Students in the Jazz Band also enroll in one or more traditional music ensemble.

In Orchestra, students work to improve their skills on violin, viola, cello, or bass. Instruction focuses on intonation, tone production, phrasing, dynamics, and balance. The group works as an ensemble to create and present well prepared performances. Music of many styles and periods is presented in several performances and special events.

General music is a once-weekly, required course for all 6th Graders, which provides the opportunity for all students to develop their musical intelligence through non-performance musical activities. Areas of study do not duplicate those of the performance groups (band, chorus, strings). The focus is on hands-on activities which allow students to explore a range of musical topics. Students participate at their own levels of ability and experience.