Music is an important part of the Clark Montessori curriculum. The seventh grade music theory class meets daily. Working in groups and moving at their own pace, students are taught to read notes and develop rhythm skills.
       Theory is put into practice as students experience opportunities for vocal and instrumental performance.
      The study of classical and modern composers is also a component of the music theory curriculum.

       Students interested in additional music courses have three
options in junior high school:
     String Orchestra
Band
Steel Band
       
       High school opportunities include
Choir
  Steel Drums
Strings
Band
Guitar

String Orchestra: Students have the opportunity for both intermediate and advanced string ensemble. Currently, this elective is open to grades 7-12 and meets in the morning from 7:45 a.m. – 8:35 a.m. The selection of music varies from classical to jazz to rock string quartets. Though the large group meets regularly, there are many opportunities that are encouraged for small group work such as quartets, trios, duets, etc.

It is also expected and encouraged to participate in the OMEA solo ensemble adjudication. This is a fun event which gets Clark out into the greater Cincinnati musical community. Community service is also encouraged by performing at various venues in Cincinnati. There are two large concerts per school year and one recital – participation is required. The instructor, Carolyn Quinn, is an Ohio State Certified String Teacher with many years of experience.

Choir: There are two Choirs at Clark; one for the High School and and one for Junior High.
In the Junior High, choir is open to 7th and 8th graders at mid-day. Though the focus is on sound production and experiencing the joy of singing, a bit of music theory is covered as well. Participation in OMEA solo and ensemble is encouraged. Concert attendance and participation is required in December and May.

High School Choir is open to students in grades 9-12. Though it is currently a semester elective, it is strongly encouraged to sign up for the year. The focus is continued in the area of sound production and on the experience of singing in different musical styles. OMEA solo and ensemble is encouraged and concert attendance is mandatory. This group also sings out in the community to share the joy of music. Both of these ensembles are taught by Carolyn Quinn.

Guitar: This class is a semester class, open to any 9-12 th grader. Guitars and music are provided for class use. Topics included in this class are: music theory, reading TAB, chord charts and treble staff, picking, strumming, all in working as a large group, small group AND solo. Many musical styles are covered in the semester with a final project at the end. Attendance is mandatory for one concert during the semester. Guitar is taught by Carolyn Quinn.

Band: Students at Clark have the opportunity to participate in band from seventh through twelfth grades.

The senior high group (grades 9 – 12) meets daily and will perform a variety of music repertoire including jazz, rock, and classic and contemporary wind band selections. As well as focusing on ensemble performance technique, due to the more advanced level of the students, the class will emphasize improvisation. Students are encouraged to participate in individual and group OMEA adjudicated events. Attendance is required for all concerts and performances.

The junior high band (grades 7 – 8) is divided into a beginning and intermediate section; placement is determined by the student’s level of experience. These groups meet twice per week. Both the high school and junior high bands are under the direction of Mr. Josh Roderer.

Steel Band: To enter steel band, students must submit an application letter and agree to a minimum two-year commitment, a concert schedule and summer community work. The mission of the steel band is “to perform lively calypso, soca, classical and spiritual music in the context of education and service.” With this in mind, the band has played many fundraisers, including those for the Red Cross, the Leukemia Foundation, the Drop Inn Center, ReSTOC and Habitat for Humanity.

In addition, the band has performed at many Tri-state schools and universities as well as other venues such as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Music Hall with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the American Montessori Society's national convention, Amnesty International's Annual General Meeting, the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Carnegie Arts Center and the Orff-Schulwerk National Convention.
Their most recent recording, Blessings, contains a variety of new and old songs, including two selections sung and produced by Bootsy Collins.

For further information about Clark's music program, contact:
Josh Roderer at 363-7183,
Carolyn Quinn at 363-7081
or Bruce Weil at 363-7184