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Music is an essential part of the Independence education, offering a wide variety of experiences designed to help every student discover and develop their creativity, whether they enjoy singing, playing an instrument, listening, dancing, or a combination of all of these! 

This journey toward musical growth begins early, with 1st graders taking their very first step into elective performance through the Elementary Choir. By 3rd grade, student autonomy expands into instrumental music as students elect to join the Strings Program. Under the guidance of Strings Instructors Cesar Colmenares and Lingchin Liao, 3rd graders receive hands-on introductions to the violin and cello, setting the stage for future participation in the Intermediate and Middle School Orchestras.

Fourth grade marks another major milestone as students transition from general music classes to dedicated, ensemble-based music-making built into their schedules, choosing from Choir, Orchestra, and Band. To ensure everyone finds the right fit, students experience all three ensembles during the first two weeks of the school year before settling into their preferred choices, with the flexibility to participate in one, two, or all three. 

While students bring prior experience from 3rd grade recorder lessons and optional string instruction, 4th grade represents their very first opportunity to play wind and brass instruments. In their initial classes, students watch performances by professional bands to learn about harmonic structure and distinguish melodic lines from bass parts. This year, several of our 8th grade musicians were invited to model their instruments for the 4th graders, performing live and answering questions peer-to-peer. Final instrument selections pair individual enthusiasm and recorder proficiency with overall ensemble balance.

As Lower and Intermediate School students hone their technique throughout the year, whether in Choir, Orchestra, or Band, they build a strong foundation for the expanded musical opportunities awaiting them in middle school.