The music program at MacDuffie strives to enhance musical understanding, skills, and appreciation of all students, and enrich their inner world through the expression of art. Music at MacDuffie provides a chance for performance, growth, and artistry as well as preparation of musicians for college-level musical activities. Students get the chance to attend concerts, participate in regional and all-state festivals and perform in and out of school throughout the year.
Middle School
Middle School students take music through all three grades. 6th graders study music basics, orchestral instruments, keyboard skills and an overview of American 20th-century composers. 7th graders explore American music of the 50s-70s and its importance in social and cultural change, and 8th graders dedicate a quarter to the study of world music. All students sing, play keyboards and drums and study basic notation as part of the curriculum. Middle School Chorus and Middle School Band meets twice a week and prepares for performances in school concerts and assemblies.
Upper School
Upper School music electives are on rotation and include music theory and production, music appreciation and history.
The MacDuffie Singers meet year-round and work on vocal and performance techniques, blend, group and solo singing, and varied repertoire to perform in concerts and assemblies. Advanced singers also have the opportunity to attend all-state events.
The MacDuffie Ensemble is an instrumental ensemble focusing on repertoire, improvisation and various performance techniques.
Keyboard and Guitar Skills
Upper School Students are also able to take a full semester of Keyboard Skills and Guitar Skills. These introductory courses are available to give students the fundamentals of playing these instruments at a beginner level.
Private lessons and instrument rentals are coordinated by the school upon request.
Concerts
There are two yearly concerts performed at MacDuffie; The Winter Music and Dance Concert, and the Spring Music Concert. The concerts are open to all students to audition. Students select and prepare their pieces with faculty coaching, and are also in charge of stage and light management, photography and MCing.
The Winter Musical production is open to all students to audition and is an excellent extracurricular activity. Students work with faculty from Dance, Music and Theater programs, gain experience, confidence and performance skills.