Frequently Asked Questions
What are the arts options in grade 5?
Fifth grade students may select one of the following options for their arts block class:
- Band (full year class)
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 (full year class)
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 (full year class)
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 (half year class)/Studio Art (half year class)
These classes are similar to the general music and studio art classes that students currently take in elementary school.
Are these classes held during the school day?
All arts classes are scheduled during the school day and meet four times a week.
What if my child wants to take performance music (band, chorus, or orchestra) and also take art?
Grade 5-6 students who take performance music who would also like to explore the grade-level art curriculum are encouraged to join the Art Club, which is an after-school club facilitated by a Parker art teacher. All students take art classes in grade 7-8, regardless of whether they participate in music ensembles.
When do we need to decide which instrument to play if we select band or orchestra?
If your child selects band or orchestra as their grade 5 arts block class, it is not necessary to decide what instrument they will play or rent an instrument until after school starts in the fall. The band and orchestra teachers will re-introduce the available instruments at the beginning of the school year.
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 about available options so that they can participate in their performance music program.
Grade 5 Arts Teacher Contact Information
Band: Eric Linsner
Chorus: Martha Robertson
Orchestra: Lisa Tiano
General Music: Dan Schmunk
Visual Art: Dawnmari Annunziata
and Ashley Norman
