JK – Grade 3
Music at Crestwood School emphasizes learning through the joy of music-making. Young children are natural musicians, and Kindergarten and Primary music classes enable the children to express themselves through singing, the playing of instruments, musical games, dancing and dramatic musical play. Musical concepts are introduced, preparing the children for music literacy at the Junior level. Theory and reading of music, music history and listening skills are developed progressively.
Grade 4
In the Junior division, students enjoy a full instrumental music program, beginning with recorders in Grade 4. By December, students are able to read music and to play a wide variety of songs. The first term finishes with a Holiday Concert at the Toronto Centre for the Arts. Throughout the remainder of the year, students continue to expand their repertoire on the recorder, listen to music and learn about the instruments of the orchestra. The school year ends with a performance in Crestwood’s Spring Concert.
Grades 5-6
Students begin learning to play band instruments. With the help of the music teacher, they each choose a suitable band instrument to play for two years. Throughout the year, students learn to play music in a variety of styles, developing their technique, reading and ensemble skills. Each grade forms a band and performs in the Holiday and Spring Concerts.
Choirs
A Primary Choir (Grades 1-3) and a Junior Choir (Grades 4-6) run as extra-curricular activities for students who wish to enrich their music experience with choral singing. The choirs perform in the annual Holiday and Spring Concerts at the Toronto Centre for the Arts. The Junior Choir also gives community service concerts and takes part in various annual festivals such as the Ontario Vocal Festival, MusicFest Canada and the Conference of Independent School’s Music Festival at Roy Thompson Hall.
