Welcome to Our Music Program

Musical experiences contribute to the growth and development of children.  The music program at R.J. Hawkey provides students with opportunities to acquire the musical skills and understanding needed to make music an enjoyable and meaningful part of their lives.  Carefully selected musical activities aid in the development of social skills and attitudes, cooperation, a sense of responsibility, leadership, consideration and respect for others, communication, self control and a positive self-concept.

Both the Orff and Kodaly methods of teaching are incorporated into the music program at R. J.  However, the main emphasis is on the Orff approach to Music Education because it is holistic, experiential and process oriented.  It is for all children, not just the most musically or intellectually gifted and encompasses aural, visual and kinesthetic learners.  It combines the elements of speech, rhythm, movement, dance, playing instruments and song. A structured, sequential development of knowledge and skills encourages joyful participation, creativity and personal musical growth from all participants.  Children learn through doing, exploring and improvising  They are active participants in an integrated, guided process, one which allows for differing musical abilities.