Beginning in 2026-27, grade 5 students will be enrolled in both music and art classes during the school day. All students will take a full year of music and a half year of art at Parker Middle School.
Art enrollment is automatic. The only decision a child needs to make is which music class to take.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the music options in grade 5?
Fifth grade students may select one of the following options for their music class:
- Band
Band instruments include woodwind, brass, and percussion family instruments. These include flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, horn, and percussion instruments. Students perform at two concerts each year and participate in other music opportunities such as assemblies and festivals.
- Chorus
Chorus involves singing as a group with focus on good vocal production, vocal health, and performing music from a variety of cultures and genres. Students perform at two concerts each year and participate in other music opportunities such as assemblies and festivals.
- Orchestra
Orchestra instruments include the string family instruments violin, viola, cello, and bass. Students perform at two concerts each year and participate in other music opportunities such as assemblies and festivals.
- General Music
These classes are similar to the general music classes that students currently take in elementary school. They will explore, create and perform music in their classroom and gain an appreciation and knowledge of various genres of music.
When do we need to decide which instrument to play if we select grade 5 band or orchestra?
If your child selects band or orchestra as their grade 5 arts block class, they will decide what instrument to play after school starts in the fall. The band and orchestra teachers will re-introduce the available instruments at the beginning of the school year. Please do not rent an instrument before then.
When do we need to rent an instrument if we select band or orchestra?
Teachers will send information home about instrument rentals in the fall. Please do not rent an instrument before then.
Do we need to rent an instrument for band or orchestra?
Each student will need a rental instrument for their use. The band and orchestra teachers will describe this process after school starts in the fall. Please do not rent an instrument before then. If your family is unable to support the cost of an instrument rental, please contact your child’s teacher directly — options are available so that every student can participate.
We hope this information helps your child make their music selection for grade 5.
Sincerely,
Dr. Christy Whittlesey, Fine and Performing Arts Department Coordinator