Elementary Vocal Music
The elementary music program is taught using the Orff Schulwerk approach that evolved from the ideas of Carl Orff and his associate Gunild Keetman. It is based on things children like to do such as singing, chanting rhymes, clapping, dancing and keeping a beat on anything near at hand.
Orff Schulwerk uses poems, rhymes, games, songs, and dances as examples and basic materials. These may be traditional or original. Spoken or sung, they may be accompanied by clapping and stamping or by drums, sticks, and bells. The special Orff melody instruments include xylophones, metallophones and glockenspiel. Played together as in a small orchestra, their use helps children become sensitive listeners and considerate participants.
The title “Schulwerk” is an indication of the educational process taking place: Schulwerk is schooling (in music) through working, that is, through being active and creative. This creativity is what Mrs. Fuller strives for the students to attain in music and to explore their musicality as well.
Another part of the music program includes learning the basic concepts of the recorder. This occurs in the fourth and fifth grades where students will learn the correct playing technique as well as how to read the notes on the staff which is called music theory. This further develops into the student being able to read music on their own.
Various programs are presented throughout the year, one of which is the annual Christmas program.
Saintly Singers
Saintly Singers, directed by Mr. Justin Pepper, is open to all 4th and 5th grade students at the Houston Levee campus. In this chorus, students learn various genres of music as well as vocal development and music literacy skills. They perform at various school-related functions throughout the year as well as several concerts. Saintly Singers also collaborates with the middle school and high school choirs to learn music for the Winter concert, as well as the Briarcrest POPS Concert in the Spring.
There is no audition process to be a part of this chorus. Please contact Justin Pepper for more information.