About the Music Programs

From novice to experienced musician, we have an ensemble that is right for your middle school student. Listen to a sampling of band, choir, vocal jazz and orchestra performances.

Ability-Based Classes Offered Daily

Introductory Orchestra and Introductory Band courses are designed to introduce students to instrumental music, and to help them select the instrument that is right for them. These students spend the first weeks of class exploring and playing a variety of instruments, weighing the pros and cons of each instrument with their music director. After selecting their instrument, students begin the process of learning to read music and to play in a group.

Intermediate Choir is open to all students—no audition is required. Throughout the year, this group explores the various styles of music from different cultures.

Rounding out Hamilton International's musical offerings are: 

Band:

• Introductory Band: for all students, no prior experience required
• Premier Band: generally for students with one year of music experience
• Intermediate Band: for more experienced students
• Concert Band: highest ability
• Jazz Band: highest-ability ensemble

Choir:

• Intermediate Choir: for all voice types with any amount of experience
• Concert Choir: for more experienced students with high voices
• Vocal Jazz: highest-ability ensemble

Orchestra:

• Introductory Orchestra: for all students, no prior experience required
• Premier Orchestra: generally for students with one year of music experience
• Intermediate Orchestra: for more experienced students
• Concert Orchestra: highest ability

Guitar Lab (Not currently offered - contact FOMAHI)

• Beginning ukulele and guitar for 6th graders

Ability-Based Classes & Teacher Approval

All students are eligible for Introductory Band, Introductory Orchestra and Intermediate Choir. No teacher approval or prior music experience is required.

All other groups require teacher approval and music experience for enrollment. District elementary music instructors make many of the class placement recommendations to Hamilton's Music Directors. However, some students will be asked to complete a brief audition to determine class placement. All placement auditions are generally completed at the end of May or early June, with placements posted the last week of the school year.

Performances and Events

All music students will have an opportunity to perform publicly in concert during regular school years. During Covid-19, students have participated in online performances such as Music-a-thon and class concerts. During typical school years, advanced music students travel to perform in festivals, competitions and other events. See the Calendar for more information and event dates.

After-School Jazz Instruction

Most school years, Hamilton International offers after-school instrumental jazz instruction. When scheduled, Junior Jazz Band is open to students at all levels with at least one-year playing experienced and meets twice weekly.

Related Pages

• About FOMAHI

• Meet Our Music Directors

• Meet the FOMAHI Board