Music

Music plays an integral part in the life of the School, from the earliest grades through Upper School, and there are abundant opportunities for budding musicians and singers to develop their skills through ensembles, private classes, and music study woven into the academic curriculum.

Music In The Lower School

Lower School students attend music classes designed to teach them the language of music, to enhance their appreciation for a variety of musical styles and cultures, and to stimulate their creative expression. Children develop performance skills through singing and instrumental activities and learn to read musical notation. Participation in winter and spring concerts gives students the opportunity to share their enthusiasm for performing. In addition, private instrumental music lessons are available beginning in second grade.

Lower School Rainbow String Ensemble (RSE)
The RSE is open to students who have had at least one full year of lessons on an orchestral string instrument (either within or outside of the FCS instrumental program).

Visit FCS Auxiliary Programs for information on private instrumental music lessons. Carl Bradley, Program Director, and Galen Guindon, Lower School Coordinator, administer the FCS instrumental program. Click here for a list of private instrumental music instructors.

Music In The Middle School

Middle School students are offered opportunities to participate in the chorus, orchestra, and jazz ensemble, and may take instrumental and vocal instruction. Two concerts each year feature these ensembles as they perform works from various periods and in various styles.

The Middle School Chorus, open to all students in grades 6-8, performs in two concerts annually, plus additional school assemblies and events. Chorus members learn the basics of healthy vocal production, music reading skills, and working together as an ensemble. Students are encouraged to consider how their unique personalities and musical gifts enhance the ensemble as a community. The Middle School Chorus sings repertoire from a variety of genres and languages, enabling students to experience a broad range of musical styles.

Music In The Upper School

Performance opportunities abound in Upper School. The music department's concerts in the winter and spring range from full orchestra to string quartets, wind ensembles, and a jazz band. Selections incorporate a cross-section of musical styles, genres, and periods.

Open to all students in grades 9-12, the Upper School Chorus performs in two concerts annually, plus additional school assemblies and events. Chorus members learn the basics of healthy vocal production, music reading skills, and working together as an ensemble. Students are encouraged to consider how their unique personalities and musical gifts enhance the ensemble as a community. The Upper School Chorus sings repertoire from a variety of genres and languages, enabling students to experience a broad range of musical styles. Students may also audition to join the Grace Notes (open to sopranos and altos in grades 9 & 10), Spicetones (sopranos and altos in grades 11 & 12), and Foxtones (tenors and basses in grades 9-12) vocal groups.

For information about music classes in the academic curriculum, visit the Upper School Academics pages.

Learn about Upper School Chorus performances at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.

Guest Artist Program

Carnegie Hall & Lincoln Center Trips