Frequently Asked Questions About Middle School Music Options

1) Is it required for all students to take a music course in seventh grade?

            Yes – the curriculum of Strongsville City Schools, in accordance with state requirements, provides that all seventh grade students participate in one full year of a music class.

2) What options are available for seventh grade students?

            Students may choose from one of the following: band, orchestra, choir, or general music.   Students must have a minimum of one year of playing experience on their instrument in order to sign up for orchestra or band.   Choir is open to all students who are willing to sing.  General music is a non-performance class open to any student.

3) If I take band or orchestra in elementary school, do I have to take it in middle school? 

            It is our hope that most students involved in the instrumental music program will continue in middle school, but it is not a requirement.   Keep in mind that many students show significant improvement in middle school thanks to the daily practice, and many opportunities open up for students who continue to play.

4) Can I start a new instrument in middle school?

            Generally speaking, no.  The middle schools do not offer beginning instruction and students must have at least one year of experience on an instrument in order to participate.  However, students who are already in band and orchestra who have an interest in changing to a related instrument (for instance, cello to bass, or flute to oboe) will have the opportunity to do so.

5) What if I sing and play and instrument?  What class should I pick?

            We encourage students who sing and play to consider taking band or orchestra for credit and trying out for show choir, which does not meet during the regular school day but will still allow students to participate in the choral program.

6) How often do middle school music classes meet?

            Band, orchestra, choir, and general music are regularly scheduled classes and meet daily, just like every other class.   Students are not pulled out of any other class, but will have a period in their schedule dedicated to the music class.

7) What about instrument transport and storage?

            Lockers are available in the instrumental music room so that students can securely store their instruments.  The middle school owns and makes available for student use large instruments such as cello, bass, and tuba, so that students do not need to transport them back and forth.

8) If I decide not to take band or orchestra in middle school, should I continue to play for the rest of 6^th grade?