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What to Expect in Music
in Grade 5
At the beginning of
the year, students will continue to sing patriotic songs from memory
and for performance. Fifth graders are taught songs that integrate
music with language, science and social studies units such as the
American Revolution, New England Colonies, weather and the human
body. All students have the option of participating in chorus or
concert band. In chorus, students are exposed to 2-part vocal music
and vocal exercises that foster the development of the singing voice.
They are also given exercises for sight-singing and are encouraged to
improvise dance movements when performing with the chorus. Critical
and creative thinking skills are fostered when students discuss and
present their own ideas for dance movements. All chorus and band
students have the opportunity to perform in both winter and spring
concerts. Students who choose to play the alto recorder in fifth
grade may participate in a small ensemble including both alto and
soprano recorders.
Music reading skills
continue to be reinforced along with music theory and composition.
Students move on to a broader range of musical symbols and learn the
lines and spaces of both the treble and bass staff. Students read
more intricate rhythm patterns from printed music, and experiment
with composition using midi-sequencing software. Students create and
arrange songs using notation software with specific guidelines. They
have the opportunity to use a variety of sound sources when composing
using a synthesizer keyboard. They have the opportunity to perform
their original compositions on an acoustic piano or other instrument
of their choice. Using the piano, students are taught the names of
the keys and learn how to write out and possibly play several major
scales using the correct intervals.
Students are exposed to
composers and listening samples that reflect their style. Musical
terms are discussed that exemplify historical periods including
baroque, classical, romantic, and contemporary music. Music classes
are planned with reference to the New Hampshire and National
Frameworks for The Arts.
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