WELCOME TO THE BEGINNING INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAMS
Elementary students at Cumberland Valley have the opportunity to learn to play a string instrument in fourth grade and a band instrument in fifth grade. Students receive instruction in small groups of homogeneous instruments during a scheduled cycle day throughout the school year. Students learn the mechanics of producing a sound on an instrument and progress to reading music from literature. They also learn the proper care and maintenance of their instrument.
Midway through the year, students begin to play as an ensemble and perform for their peers for various school events and concerts throughout the year. In June, fifth grade band and orchestra students from all seven elementary schools come together on the stage of the High School Performing Arts Center and perform a grand "graduation" concert for family and friends.
Elementary instrumental teachers meet with third and fourth grade students in May to introduce students to the opportunity of playing a musical instrument and to provide preliminary information to parents. A parent meeting is held at the beginning of the school year to provide more information as well as to give them the opportunity to meet with music instrument vendors.