Northumberland Elementary School
Music Program
The Northumberland Elementary Music
Department consists of three components. All students from grades K-5 receive a
General Music Class for 40 minutes, once a week. Fourth and Fifth grade
students may audition for an after school choir, which meets on Tuesdays, from
3:00 - 4:30.
Mrs. Todd Barnes teaches General Music Classes. The curriculum is
singing and movement based. Children are taught proper singing techniques,
rhythm instruments, Orff instruments, folk dances, and foundations of music
reading, history, and theory. During the elementary years with Mrs. Barnes,
students have the opportunity to see several Symphony performances, The
Nutcracker Ballet, several student opera productions, and a variety of other
music performances according to availability.
Both choirs are directed by Mrs. Barnes. Emphasis is placed upon
two-part harmony and the level of difficulty is harder than in General Music
Class. Students are auditioned and the choir is generally limited to 45
participants. Concerts are presented in December and in April.
Standards of Learning for Music may be viewed at
www.pen.k12.va.us Click on Standards of
Learning , then Music & Standards of Learning, then Music Standards of Learning.
Mrs. Barnes believes that music is a more potent
instrument than any other for education, and that music is one of the most
important manifestations of any cultural heritage. Music provides an outlet for
creativity, self-expression, and individuality. Music is one of the most
profound symbol systems that exist. Music exalts the human spirit. Music
teachers, reinforces, and improves critical thinking, self- discipline, decision
making, cooperative learning, awareness of other cultures/values, self-esteem,
and self-worth. All students should be provided with an opportunity
to make music an important part of their lives.
    
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