Music

At Holy Family Catholic School, music class is a joyful opportunity for students to grow in creativity and confidence. From preschool through 8th grade, students experience music through singing, movement, listening, playing instruments, and performing. Music provides opportunities for students to serve God and participate more fully in prayer by serving as music ministers during weekly daily Mass.

The Holy Family Catholic School music curriculum incorporates elements of both Orff- and Kodály-inspired instruction. This allows students to explore music through rhythm, percussion instruments, improvisation, music literacy, and games. Students develop skills in sight-reading, notation, ensemble performance, and musical expression as they progress through each grade level.

Instrumental music plays an important role in our curriculum. Third- and fourth-grade students participate in a recorder unit, while fifth-grade students begin their instrumental journey through band. Middle school students who wish to continue their instrumental studies have the opportunity to participate in an after-school band. Seventh- and eighth-grade students will also have the opportunity to explore guitar as part of their classroom music experience.

Middle school music focuses on choral singing and working together as an ensemble. Students continue to develop healthy vocal technique and music-reading skills. As the year progresses, students should be able to perform with expression and confidence.

Music is woven throughout the life of Holy Family Catholic School. Students of all grade levels have the opportunity to participate in leading daily Mass, musical programs, and performances throughout the year. These performances correlate with liturgical celebrations and patriotic holidays. Through sacred music, students encounter the rich musical traditions of the Catholic faith and learn how music can deepen their connection to the liturgical year and prayer.

Performing is an important part of our music program. Students spend time preparing for a school-wide Christmas production in December and a spring performance in May. These performances give students the chance to showcase their God-given talents and develop confidence.

Within the music program, students learn more than how to read notation and sing. They learn how to listen, collaborate, create, and appreciate music across a variety of cultures and genres. The goal is to help students recognize their musical gifts and discover ways they can use those gifts to bring joy to others and give glory to God.