The Department of Music and Dance is an important academic enrichment at Country Day. A faculty of four full-time teachers and three private lesson teachers provide instruction to students in grade-level specific programs from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. 

Middle School students can choose from a variety of music electives including Concert Band or Garage Band, Orchestra, or Choir. Our High School students can also select musical electives including Concert or Jazz Band, Garage Band, Orchestra and Chamber Ensembles, or Choir.

Lower School

In Pre-K–3rd grade, students explore music and movement through a curriculum rooted in Orff Schulwerk and Laban Movement Analysis. “Music & Movement” honors the student as the artist, and children are guided to explore foundational ideas in the performing arts and develop foundational skills to improvise, compose, and perform, with regular opportunities to share their work through performances and “informances.” Pre-K and Kindergarten receive instruction three times per week; Grades 1–3 meet twice weekly.

In 4th grade, students focus on choral music, learning vocal technique and performance fundamentals across diverse styles. Students meet several times per week and performances are held throughout the year, exploring a range of musical styles.

By 5th grade, students choose an instrument and join Band or Orchestra, meeting three times weekly to build on prior music learning through ensemble practice and performance.

Middle & High School

Students in Music elective classes build musical vocabulary, technique, and creative thinking through exploration, reflection, and performance. They develop artistic judgment, craftsmanship, and discipline by engaging in both instrumental and choral music.

Middle School students may join the Band or Orchestra while our High School students can choose from VPA*-designated classes including Chamber Music, Concert Choir, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Orchestra, and the always-popular Garage Band.

Public performances are given before the winter holidays, in the spring, and on special occasions. Music festivals and field trips are often incorporated into the year as well. For extensive detail on each opportunity, please review our curriculum guide. 

*The courses with a “VPA'' designation after the title fulfill the Visual and Performing Arts requirement both for Country Day’s graduation and UC qualification