Why Learning an Instrument is a Requirement
At PPA we recognize the importance of expanding our students’ exposure to a wide spectrum of art and so we require that each 5th grader learn to play a musical instrument.
“Our goal at PPA is for every student completing their middle school education here to leave the building as a well-rounded artist. We believe that learning to play an instrument is an incredibly important part of a student’s artistic and musical growth.”
- Caitlin Hilzer, Dean of Performing Arts
Learning to play an instrument:
- develops the essential skills of perseverance and persistence, beneficial throughout life
- increases confidence and safe risk-taking
- improves comprehension in math and literacy
- encourages collaboration with others
- helps to internalize music in a way listening to music can’t
- expands artistic opportunities
“Performers today are often expected to have mastery over a wide range of artistic skills. Learning an instrument sets up our students for future success in the arts professions they may someday pursue”
- Caitlin Hilzer, Dean of Performing Arts
Instruments Taught at PPA
5th graders have several options when choosing what instrument to learn to play including woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion. No prior experience is required, so students can try out the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, and tuba. Or they can learn violin, cello, or bass which are all taught through the orchestra program.
In the Elementary school students explore music on the piano, xylophone, and recorder. 7th and 8th graders may study piano or guitar.
The goal of learning an instrument is not only to achieve mastery, it’s to develop skills like rhythmic and melodic awareness, fine motor coordination, breath control and support, decoding and music reading. It also helps our students to set goals and monitor their progress towards achieving those goals.
Of course, if a student tries one instrument and determines in partnership with their music teacher that it’s not a good fit, they’re welcome to change to a different one. For example, they may play a trumpet in 5th grade, but then choose the cello or something else in 6th grade.
“Our 5th graders are developing a real love for playing an instrument. In fact, many
continue through middle school and join the 6th grade band or orchestra before pursuing membership in our advanced ensembles: Chamber Orchestra and Jazz Band.”
- Caitlin Hilzer, Dean of Performing Arts
PPA is still enrolling for the 2024-25 school year. Contact us today to learn more about our middle school instrumental music program and everything else we offer here.
---------------------------------
About Parker Performing Arts School
Parker Performing Arts School (PPA) is a public, tuition free performing arts school serving elementary and middle school students, chartered by the Douglas County School District. We deliver the art of education combining a rigorous academic curriculum and daily training in performing and visual arts We accept all K-8 students interested in pursuing their artistic passion. Enroll now.