Music Program
The instrumental music program in District 27 begins in the 4th grade; however, students have the opportunity to begin instrumental music study at the beginning of any subsequent year regardless of their grade in school. In May each year, third grade students listen to demonstrations and try the instruments taught in the program. Individual appointments afford teachers, parents, and students the opportunity to discuss student preferences and suitability for a certain instrument. Once a decision is reached regarding choice of instrument, parents are given information on how to rent or purchase an instrument. Lessons begin at the start of the next school year.
Band Ensembles
First Year Band is directed by Ms. Valente, and is comprised of students in their first year of instrumental study at Shabonee School. First Year Band rehearses on Wednesday mornings beginning at the end of October. Students are expected to arrive at school at 7:50 a.m. to warm-up, rehearsal begins at 8am, and concludes at 8:40 a.m. when the school day begins. The First Year Band performs three times during the school year.
Concert Band is also directed by Ms. Valente, and is comprised of students in their second year of instrumental study at Shabonee School. Concert Band rehearses twice a week on Monday and Thursday mornings from 8-8:40 a.m., and students need to arrive at school at 7:50 a.m. to properly warm-up. The Concert Band performs four times during the school year including the IGSMA District VIII Organization Festival in early March.
Orchestra Ensembles
First Year Orchestra is composed of students in their first year of string instrument study at Shabonee School. First Year Strings rehearse on Thursday mornings before school beginning at the end of October. Rehearsals begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. and end at 8:40 am. First Year Strings performs three times during the school year.
Shabonee Strings is made up of students in their second year of string study at Shabonee School. Shabonee Strings rehearse twice a week on Tuesday and Friday mornings from 8:00-8:40 a.m., and students need to arrive at school at 7:50 a.m. to properly warm-up. The Shabonee Strings perform at least four times during the school year.
Chorus
Shabonee 4th and 5th Grade Chorus: Shabonee students must have an interest in singing and performing to qualify for membership. Chorus is an activity in which individual students learn to function as members of a group. Students will sing in unison and in parts and develop skills that will challenge them. Membership in chorus is a privilege and a responsibility.
Expectations for choir members: Attendance at all morning rehearsals, very best behavior when in rehearsal and performances, quiet between songs, and try your best at all times. Students may lose membership in the choir if they cannot meet these expectations of attendance and behavior. Three unexcused absences from chorus rehearsal will result in dismissal from the group.