Why Music?

We believe that music should be an integral part of the high-quality educational program for all TK-8 students in Rincon Valley. 

The vision of the Rincon Valley Music Program is to ensure that all students have the opportunity to experience foundational music instruction during their elementary school experience AND participate in instrumental music ensembles in order to further develop and refine their skills and prepare for future musical commitments in middle school and beyond.  

Who teaches Music classes?

Seven specialized music teachers teach Music classes at eight schools. One music teacher is assigned to each school, for music instruction during the school day. In addition, teachers offer music ensembles in their area of expertise at their school, 2 days per week for sixth grade students. Teachers may also teach before/after school music ensembles and/or choir at other schools to ensure that all students have access to a music ensemble at their own school. 

What does Music instruction look like? 

Students move through a music continuum that begins with general vocal and instrumental music appreciation and extends to specialized performance groups such as band, orchestra and choir. Students in SDC and RVP settings will participate in the Music Program with their SDC/RVP class; they will also have the opportunity to be included in Music class with their peers in general education. 

Grade-specific offerings are as follows;

• Grades TK-3: Students receive general vocal and instrumental music appreciation classes one time per week for 30 minutes.

• Grade 4: Students receive general music appreciation classes two times per week for 45 minutes. 

• Grade 5: Students receive general music appreciation classes two times per week for 45 minutes. Specialized units throughout the school year focus on an introduction 

to orchestra, band and/or choir, in preparation for 6th grade ensembles and instrument selection. Students may choose to participate in choir, offered either before/after school at their school.

• Grade 6: In order to further develop and refine their skills and prepare for future musical commitments in middle school and beyond, students have the opportunity to participate in before/after school music ensembles at each school. Music ensembles may include orchestra, band, choir, and/or musical theater at a specific school. Orchestra and band are offered twice a week for 45 minutes. Musical theater is offered three times a week for 45 minutes. Choir is offered once a week for 45 minutes. If a school does not offer one of these options, a student may choose to attend an ensemble at a nearby school. (At this time, District transportation between school sites will not be available. Grownups will be responsible for transporting their student.) 

• Grade 7-8: Students may choose to participate in before/after school orchestra and band ensembles as a “zero-period” elective. Students participate in a variety of performance opportunities throughout the year, including concerts, festivals and parades.