Instrumental Music at Wheeler
On any given day, Wheeler’s courtyard and halls might echo with sounds of middle or high schoolers playing jazz, the ringing of handbells, fourth graders playing ukuleles, and much more. The joyful and dedicated study of instrumental music at Wheeler extends from the earliest years to the most advanced levels of musicianship in the Upper School. While developing skills of collaboration, creativity, communication, and curiosity, students gain a deeper understanding of the language of music. Performing as a member of an ensemble builds confidence and creates connections between the musicians as well as connections with audiences. Wheeler is uniquely gifted with a robust collection of amazing classroom spaces, instruments, and materials, as well as an equally robust and creative music faculty.
In Lower School, we have an Orff-based approach and foundation to music teaching. Classes for our younger students are mini-ensembles where everyone gets to play an instrument and, equally important, experiences the collaborative spirit of music. Lower Schoolers experiment with playing xylophones, percussion, recorders, ukuleles, chorale work, and they have rotating activity periods where they rehearse the musical, rock band, and other various music opportunities.
In Middle School, building upon the fundamentals of music learned in the Lower School program. students are immersed in areas of music theory that will give them a deeper understanding of the language of music. They learn how to read, notate, compose, and perform music as an ensemble member. Students gain confidence through the opportunity to play many different instruments and to perform for the Wheeler community. Interested students can also join the Middle School Chorus or Jazz Band. These groups perform at Middle School assemblies, Wheeler events, and off campus in the Providence community several times each year. With the musical literacy and performance skills acquired in Middle School Music, students are well-prepared for Upper School Music experience.
In Upper School, instrumental music empowers students as beginners or as experienced musicians, as soloists and as members of an ensemble. Music Exploration or Handbells Ensemble are opportunities for new musicians, and Wheeler’s extensive Jazz Program gives classroom and performance opportunities to students who want to take their learning to the highest level.
CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS AND VIDEO OF THE 2023 US SPRING JAZZ CONCERT
CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS AND VIDEO OF MS CHORUS AND SHOW BAND
CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS AND VIDEO OF THE 2023 US SPRING HANDBELLS CONCERT
