Music Curriculum

The music program at OLL gives students a variety of learning opportunities and gradually builds upon music basics. In kindergarten students learn rhythm through movement activities. They begin to recognize band instruments and learn to play a variety of Orff and rhythm instruments. They learn about dynamics, form, style, pitch matching, and Kodaly hand signs.

Grades 1-2 build upon these basics. Students learn to identify pitch intervals using Kodaly methods. They learn about composers and their music. They play pitched Orff instruments alone and in ensemble. By second grade they begin to sing simple rounds.

In grades 3-5 more emphasis is placed on singing technique. Advanced singers have the opportunity to audition for the North Carolina Honor’s Chorus. We also have an after school choir called the OLL Singers. In the spring they participate in the annual Choral Celebration at Meymandi Hall. Our choir has represented our school well over the last six years. Several opportunities exist for fourth graders. They attend a concert given by the NC Symphony. For weeks prior to the concert, they study and prepare two songs to sing in ensemble with the symphony. Fourth graders also learn to play the recorder. We use a fun supplement called Recorder Karate whereby students work their way through levels similar to Karate classes. Fifth graders build upon the recorder knowledge for a few months as well. All of the classes greatly enjoy the creative songs we sing from Music K-8.

In grades 6-8, students apply their repertoire of skills in music to projects that enhance their ability and enrich their community. Students progress in reading, composing, and performing music. Through their study of contemporary and historical music, they are encouraged to use teamwork and develop critical thinking skills such as analyzing, synthesizing and evaluating information. Additionally, they begin to experience the arts as society’s gift to itself, linking hope to memory, inspiring courage, making our tragedies bearable, and enriching our celebrations.