Scarsdale Middle School

“I would teach children music, physics, and philosophy; but most importantly music, for the patterns in music and all the arts are the keys to learning.” - Plato

The Scarsdale Middle School Music Program offers multiple pathways of study, including performing ensembles (band, chorus, and string orchestra) and Exploring Music (classroom music). Regardless of class choice, students attend music class every other day for the entire year. The curriculum, guided by the National Core Arts Standards for Music, invites students to develop the skills and knowledge to (1) create, (2) perform, present, and produce (3) respond, and (4) connect with music on a personal and communal level.

The 3-year Middle School sequence in each of these pathways allows students to build upon the skills they have developed in their K-5 music education programs. Students also develop their musical interests and abilities during the pivotal middle school years. For this reason, students should expect that their participation in a selected music course will continue for their duration of study at SMS (3 years).

Our Exploring Music Program offers an extensive three-year sequence of musical experiences. While Exploring Music does not include concerts in the evening, there are some avenues for performance within the class period itself.

The Exploring Music curriculum is designed to develop an appreciation for music fundamentals and all types of music through listening, analyzing, playing instruments, and composing. The curriculum allows students to explore musical concepts including rhythm, melody, harmony, form, and tone color. Additionally, students will experience a broad range of genres and cultures. Students will showcase their knowledge and skills through original creative projects, using both traditional methods and music technology. Units may include world drumming, historical research, ukulele, mallet percussion instruments, guitar, piano, and composing and arranging (by hand and using computer applications).

Additional SMS performance opportunities include Vocal Music Club, Sinfonietta Strings, the SMS Musical, Chamber Winds Ensemble, All-District (4th, 5th, and 6th grade) Jazz Band, SMS 7th/8th Grade Jazz Band, Percussion Ensemble. County-wide opportunities include NYSSMA and All County Festivals.