LOWER SCHOOL

In Lower School, students are introduced to a variety of musical concepts such as steady beat, tempo, dynamics, rhythm, and melody through singing, instrument playing, and musical games. Students are exposed to music from many different cultures, periods, and genres.  They are taught the tools they need to begin to read, write, and play music. There are many performance opportunities throughout the school year, including a Christmas concert, spring musical, liturgies, and student gatherings. Group lessons in violin are taught several times a week for each student in Barat through 2nd grade and the after-school music program provides instruction for those who wish to study a particular instrument.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Middle School students receive a more focused course of musical study. Sight-singing, rhythm, theory, and vocal technique are at the core of the curriculum. Students may choose to audition for the Madeleines, a chorus for fifth- and sixth-graders, or the Nightingales for seventh- and eighth-graders. Handbell Choir and Orchestra are open to all Middle School students. A Ca-Bella is an elite a capella chorus for students in seventh through twelfth grade; Members are invited to join by audition. All of these groups perform frequently at school and in the community.

UPPER SCHOOL

The Upper School Music program offers students the opportunity to pursue their love of music based on their specific interests. Instrumentalists may participate in our Orchestra or our Handbell Choir. Freshmen singers are encouraged to join Chorus, a beginning group that emphasizes choral singing, sight reading, and vocal development and is a prerequisite for students planning on joining Madrigals. A Ca-Bella is an elite a capella chorus open by audition to students in seventh through twelfth grade. All groups perform frequently at school and community events. The Madrigals is Sacred Heart’s signature Upper School chorus and is open by audition to students in tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade. The Madrigals perform frequently throughout the year at a variety of venues and tour internationally every other year.