Elementary and Middle School Music
The Elementary and Middle School music program at JMS is designed to involve the total child. Our Music Mission states: "The mission of the JMS music program is to assist and guide each student in the development of his or her innate musicality with a rich, developmentally based curriculum which leads to a lifelong participation in, enjoyment and appreciation of music in various forms."
JMS Winter Concert 2007. ©2007 The Judson Montessori School. All rights reserved.
Music Literacy through Folk Song
The core of the curriculum is the Kodály philosophy of music education, which encourages good vocal tone production Music girl and teaches musical literacy (reading and notating music rhythms and notes) through the use of traditional folk songs and well-composed music. The process of music literacy begins with the very young child and is continued through middle school. Students participate in singing, music games and dances, rhymes and speech exercises, movement, and folk dances, and are eventually led to rhythmic and melodic improvisation and composition. The Orff instruments become an extension of the singing voice and are used to enhance the student's musical experience.
Integrated Musical Learning
At JMS, elementary and middle school students meet with a music specialist on a regular basis each week. Small groups are identified in preparation for special programs or other events. In class, music studies and activities are available within the Montessori environment and are supported by the classroom teacher.
The JMS Chamber Singers and Singers Program
The Judson Montessori School’s choral program has developed an excellent reputation since its inception in 1988. JMS Singers’ performances include the nationally televised Mass at San Fernando Cathedral, and a program of folk and contemporary songs and dance at the 1999 Texas Music Educator Association Convention-- Central Texas Orff reception. The Singers also performed for the Texas Challenger Kick-off attended by then-Governor George W. Bush and General Colin Powell, USA, Retired. In May of 2001, the Singers recorded a compact disc with the San Antonio Choral Society entitled “A Song for All Seasons.” JMS Singers and the Advanced Recorder Ensemble performances include two San Antonio Early Music Festivals, and, in Dallas, the 1995 national convention of the American Orff-Schulwerk Association opening ceremony.
Kathy Kelly directs the Chamber Singers, and Renee Meriwether directs the Singers.
The JMS Recorder Ensembles
For students wishing additional in-depth instrumental experience, JMS offers an after school recorder program using all sizes of recorders and Orff instruments. The Intermediate and Advanced Recorder Ensembles regularly perform with the JMS Singers in school concerts, and frequently perform in the San Antonio community.
Gerald Self directs the Recorder Ensemble and Advanced Recorder Ensembles.
For more information about these music programs, please contact the Judson Montessori School at 492-3553.
