Fourth Grade Music

Weekly Class Music Schedule
Each fourth grade section participates in two 40-minute music sessions per week. For exact days and times of your daughter's music class check with her classroom teacher or the Lower School Music Specialist. 

Music in Community
In addition to the weekly classes, music is infused into many of Burke's traditions. At weekly assemblies the girls enter and leave singing. Songs are chosen to augment a topic of the assembly, to celebrate the time of year, or just for the joy and beauty of the song. The repertoire ranges in genre from the classics of the American Musical to traditional rounds, camp songs, and folk and art songs from around the world. 

Performances and Sharing for Parents and Family
Performances allow students to demonstrate new skills, become more comfortable in front of an audience, and experience the joy of ensemble and performing. The support you give to your daughter's music education through attendance at performances is vital!  Mark your calendars now so you are sure to attend.

Fourth Grade Curriculum and Skills
In addition to strengthening and continuing third grade skills, music study in the fourth grade focuses upon the further development of musicianship, music literacy, and creative thinking.  These are approached through learning the instrumental techniques of playing the soprano recorder (girls will bring home their recorders after they can play their first five songs), reading musical notation, and exploring improvisational skills within the discipline of the ensemble. Music concepts include: 

*  Syncopation
*  Diatonic melodies
*  Pitch names of the treble clef
*  Two-chord accompaniment
*  Theme and variations 

Integrated themes and projects may include: Native cultures of California, "Island of the Blue Dolphin," Sea Chanteys, Songs of the Gold Rush, Songs of the Transcontinental Railroad.

Contact
Burke's is dedicated to developing the whole child. While the weekly music classes are skill-based and group oriented I am interested in your child's musical activities outside of school and am happy to discuss your child's musical needs and interests! If you have any musical talents you would like to share, I would love to have you visit a class. Similarly, I would love to hear about Burke's students, parents and alumni who participate in music outside of school (you may send information to the e-mail address below).

Lisa Mandelstein, K-4 Music
(415) 751-0177 ext. 322

Lower School Music Overview