MUSIC

Students in pre-kindergarten through grade 4 have general music class taught by a specialist.  Over these years, students achieve mastery of music theory and become highly capable sight-readers and analytical listeners, eventually learning to write their own music individually and in groups, using their knowledge, their ear, and technology.

All this content occurs in a program which deeply integrates theatre arts and religion objectives.  Students study and are taught to sing and appreciate American and patriotic standard selections, the musical styles of other cultures, and Catholic hymns from all cultures related to the liturgy of the week.  Creative movement activities and creative thinking exercises mark each week’s study.

A prized tradition at Holy Family is the annual Sound in Motion program.  The special area teachers combine to create a performance by all students that integrates music, physical movement, and Spanish language and culture.  Older students participate in choreographing their own dances and routines.
In grades 5-8, students may choose a fine art from among band, string orchestra, art, or theatre arts.  Band students join with the teacher’s classes in other schools to perform and to compete.  String orchestra students hold concerts and play preludes and meditations during liturgy.  The band and the orchestra sometimes perform in ensemble for special occasions such as the Veteran’s Day ceremonies and the benefit concert held for the community to raise funds for victims of Hurricane Katrina.

The most popular extracurricular activity at Holy Family is choir for grades 3-8.  These students rehearse weekly and sing at Mass.  Annually, choir students provide leadership when Holy Family hosts the Diocesan Choir Festival.