"Performing, creating and responding to music are the fundamental music processes in which humans engage. Students, particularly in grades 1-4 learn by doing. Singing, playing instruments, moving to music and creating music enables them to acquire musical skills and knowledge that can be developed in no other way. Learning to read and notate music gives them a skill with which to explore music independently and with others. Listening to, analyzing and evaluating music are important building blocks of musical learning. Further, to participate in a diverse, global society, students must understand their own historical and cultural heritage and those of others within their communities and beyond. Because music is a basic expression of human culture, every student should have access to a balanced, comprehensive and sequential program of study in music."
--Music Educators National Conference
In addition to participating in a required general music curriculum that meets these objectives, students have the option beginning in grade four to participate in an elective instrumental music program. Students have a choice of the Orchestra/Strings Program or the Concert Band/Wind and Percussion Program.
In elementary general music classes, students are assessed on a variety of musical activities. Grading levels are Outstanding, Satisfactory, or Needs Improvement (O, S, and N, respectively), and are found under "Achievement" on the students’ quarterly report cards.