Student Life
Music
Our goal at the Donna Klein Jewish Academy Music Department is to instill the joy of music in each student in a way that touches them individually through contact with a wide repertoire of musical experiences. We work and encourage students to embrace the joy of learning music through singing, movement, playing instruments, and performing. As students develop their skills, we expose them to a broad range of musical experiences that sharpen their cognitive skills, improve dexterity, and develop their appreciation of music and its place in the world within and beyond the school setting.
Throughout the grades, students are exposed to a family of instruments, major composers and their compositions, simple rhythmic and note patterns, music history and appreciation. Students learn to play percussion instruments, bells, chimes, recorders and the keyboard. Major Jewish holidays are introduced in both Hebrew and English songs and dance.
Throughout the grades, students are exposed to a family of instruments, major composers and their compositions, simple rhythmic and note patterns, music history and appreciation. Students learn to play percussion instruments, bells, chimes, recorders and the keyboard. Major Jewish holidays are introduced in both Hebrew and English songs and dance.
Students showcase their progress throughout a number of performances, including class talent shows, plays and drama productions, Grandparents and Special Friends' Day, Leadership Day, and at school assemblies. Preparation for these performances helps to develop performing skills and cooperation, while building students' self-confidence. Thus, participating in the music program is a cornerstone in the development of the well-rounded student.
The Orchestra Program
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The DKJA Orchestra Program provides students with a comprehensive approach to string instrument performance. Students may choose from violin, viola, cello, or bass.
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The curriculum includes music literacy (reading musical notation), ensemble performance, interpretation of different musical styles, and proper sound production. This is achieved through a weekly private lesson plus a weekly group lesson.
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Inherent in the program is the building of self-esteem, the strengthening of self-discipline and the development of social skills.
- The Alex Schachter Music Program enhanced the orchestra to include percussion, woodwinds, and brass. This program was established in memory of Alex Schachter, a member of our community who was killed in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas tragedy.
