Elementary - Grades K-6
The Central Bucks elementary music department inspires student musicians to create, collaborate, perform, and make musical connections with the world around them.
Students in grades Kindergarten (pioneer school only for 25-26) through six receive one forty-minute period of General Music instruction every week. Music class consists of a wide variety of interesting and challenging experiences that present music as a means of self-expression, enjoyment, and as an academic discipline. The voice is used as the primary means of expression. Music material is presented in a sequence that follows the child's natural ability at various stages of growth. Concepts, skills and activities are divided into four main standards: CREATING, PERFORMING, CONNECTING, RESPONDING. The continuing refinement of musical concepts and skills through singing and performing are an important goal of the elementary program.
General Music Teachers
Michael Gruver: District Music Curriculum Coordinator
Jason Hurle: Titus, KutzElizabeth Axler: DoyleJordan Dalbenzio: Cold Spring, Jamison, GaymanAlissa Nelson: Barclay
Linsey Griffin: ButlerAmanda Kelly: Warwick, Cold SpringKaren Mudry: Mill CreekAndrea Raynor: Bridge Valley, Cold SpringSteve Reilley: GrovelandMaddie Robinson: Pine Run, GaymanKayla Marucci: Linden, Gayman, KutzKate Gutkind: GaymanArianna Risilia: Buckingham, Jamison
Elementary Instrumental Music
Grade 4 Strings Instruction
Fourth graders are invited to participate in the Elementary Strings program. Classes meet for one thirty-minute lesson per week and are scheduled during the school day. This program is recommended for students interested in studying violin, viola or cello. Knowing how to read music is not a prerequisite for entrance into this program. During the first year, students are introduced to basic string instrument playing skills. Students will participate in various performance opportunities during the school year.
Please note: Students may also choose to wait until fifth grade to begin string instruction. Students who are primarily interested in learning a band instrument are encouraged to wait until fifth grade, and then enroll in the band program.
Grade 5 and 6 Instrumental Instruction
Fifth and sixth graders are invited to participate in the Elementary Instrumental program. Instructional classes meet for thirty minutes once a week and are scheduled during the school day. Students may choose to play a woodwind, brass, percussion or string instrument. Knowing how to read music is not a prerequisite for entrance into this program. Participants perform in a large band or orchestra ensemble as a culminating experience in the spring. Large group rehearsals are scheduled before school. The goals of the program are:
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to develop comprehension and interpretation of the elements of music as applied to the student’s particular instrument.
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to enhance musical skills and creativity through performance, individual home practice and group instruction.
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to optimize the student’s problem-solving skills through the critical listening of their own playing, especially in terms of rhythmic accuracy and intonation.
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to encourage collaborative workers who can demonstrate cooperation and leadership within their groups.
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to prepare for successful participation in the middle school music program.
Band TeachersKat Feliciani: Kutz, Groveland, BarclayKate Gutkind: Pine Run, Warwick, GaymanIan Brown: Buckingham, Linden, TitusSue Steen: Doyle, Cold Spring, JamisonMichael Robinson: Mill Creek, Bridge Valley, ButlerString TeachersAshley LaRose: Barclay, ButlerLauren Herrschaft: Bridge Valley, Kutz, WarwickChristina Quinn: Groveland, Pine Run, Cold SpringIan Vos: Jamison, Mill CreekKirby Vuocolo: Buckingham, Linden, TitusElizabeth Axler: DoyleMaddie Robinson: Gayman