JMS Websites

The middle school curriculum (what is taught) is organized into subject areas or departments. Depending on a interests and abilities, students may experience learning in other departments as well such as world languages, family and consumer science (FACS), or reading.

Find out more about each middle school curriculum area by browsing through the department links.

The major outcomes of the music department are:

Band 6

• Learn how to hold an instrument and read music at a beginning level
• Produce good tones and perform in an ensemble

Band 7

• Increase understanding of tone quality, intonation/pitch, rhythm/meter, technique and interpretation
• Expand instrumental skills playing music from many historical periods and styles
• Learn improvisation skills

Band 8

• Advanced levels of skill development and musicianship
• Focus on the finer nuances of musical performance

Choir 6

• Learn to use voice correctly
• Perform a variety of styles of music from different cultures and historical periods
• Study the elements of music and gain reading and notating skills

Choir 7

• Sing and perform a variety of styles of music
• Increase understanding of tone quality, intonation/pitch, rhythm/meter, technique and interpretation
• Acquire vocal skills and musicianship

Choir 8

• Sing and perform a varieyt of styles of music
• Achieve advanced vocal skills and musicainship

Orchestra 6

• Learn how to hold an instrument and read music at a beginning level
• Produce good tones and perform in an ensemble

Orchestra 7

• Increase understanding of tone quality, intonation/pitch, rhythm/meter, technique and interpretation
• Introduce to orchestra ensemble playing with an emphasis on the bow stroke and fundamentals of music
• Learn improvisation skills

Orchestra 8

• Advance skill development and muscianship
• Focus on the finer nuances of muscial performance