Instrumental
In Perfect Harmony
“Bach gave us God’s Word. Mozart gave us God’s laughter. Beethoven gave us God’s Fire. God gave us music, that we might pray without words.” author unknown
Students exploration of instrumental music can have a significant positive impact on their academics, social and cultural understanding, and their personal relationship with the Creator. Playing an instrument greatly increases a student's math comprehension and spatial and pattern recognition. In addition, music training also helps language and problem solving skills, increases creativity, provides a healthy outlet for emotions, builds confidence and teamwork skills, and gives students a niche where they can make lasting connections.
Students at Central Christian begin group violin instruction using the Suzuki Method in first grade. In middle school, students may choose to continue playing a string instrument or choose another instrument from the full orchestra. Orchestra continues for all students through grade eight.
Elementary School Strings
“Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens. If children hear fine music from the day of their birth and learn to play it, they develop sensitivity, discipline and endurance. They get a beautiful heart.”
― Shinichi Suzuki
Students at CCS will begin learning the violin in first grade, utilizing the Suzuki Method. The Suzuki Method is based on the principle that all children possess ability and that this ability can be developed and enhanced through a nurturing environment. Emphasis is placed on listening to simple repertoire before it is introduced. Care is taken to ensure proper posture, violin hand position, bow hold, and tone production.
Performances for elementary school include a Christmas production and a spring concert.
Middle School Orchestra
Middle school orchestra creates an atmosphere that promotes self-esteem in a fun and creative environment. String education continues from elementary school with bow techniques, dynamics, and student awareness of the interdependence of each section of the orchestra. Counting, hand-eye coordination and applying music theory are taught through specific pieces. 5th grade string students may continue with violin, or switch to another stringed instrument (viola, cello, or bass). 5th graders may also switch to a wind instrument. 6th to 8th grade strings players will add 3rd position and vibrato techniques.
Opportunities for middle school orchestra performance include the Christmas concert, spring concert, eighth grade recognition, and community performances.
High School Orchestra
Few things proclaim the majesty of God and express emotion as an orchestra can. Students study sacred and nonsacred pieces by classical composers such as Bach, Beethoven and Mozart as well as popular scores from cinema productions like Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Wars, and The Lord of the Rings.
Students in high school orchestra have opportunities to perform at Prelude and Dessert, Christmas Concert, Spring Concert, MSC (Mennonite School Council) Orchestra Festival, and community concerts.
Heartland Strings
Advanced instrumentalists are given opportunity to perform in Central Christian's String Ensemble, Heartland Strings. This ensemble will study chamber music literature and its performance, organization procedures and self-direction. Students involved in Heartland Strings will master advanced repertoire for their performances at high school concerts, church services, community events and recitals.
Jazz Band
Jazz Band members are five the opportunity to study the genre of jazz, including the various forms, styles, and techniques exclusive to jazz music. Students are encouraged to tap into their creativity by creating their own solos through improvisation. This ensemble will enjoy performing at high school concerts, MSC (Mennonite School Council) Orchestra Festival, community events as well as bring energy to the crowd at high school basketball games!
The Anna Knutson Private Lesson Scholarship provides 7-10 eligible students with 50% of the cost of private lessons during the school year. The family will be invoiced for the other 50% of the cost of private lessons. Applicants who meet all criteria will be awarded scholarships on a first come, first served basis. Click here to view information about the Anna Knutson Scholarship.