4th Grade

Major Topics of Study

Rhythm
  • Quarter note, eighth notes, half note, dotted half note, whole note, quarter rest, half rest, whole rest, sixteenth notes
  • Time signature and measures

Melody

  • Melodic direction on staff
  • Treble clef
  • Notes on the treble staff, including notes below and above the staff
  • Orff instruments (glockenspiel, xylophone, metallophone)? 

Harmony

  • Partner songs
  • Rounds
  • Tonal center (major and minor)
  • Ensembles: Orchestra, band, and chorus
  • Voice parts: Soprano, alto, tenor, and bass 

Form

  • Phrases
  • Folk songs
  • Theme and variations
  • Symphony 

Expression

  • Dynamics: Pianissimo, piano, mezzo piano, mezzo forte, forte, fortissimo, crescendo, decrescendo
  • Tempo: Adagio, moderato, allegro
  • Long and short articulation
  • Tone color 

History and Culture

  • Ives: Theme and Variations on America
  • Beethoven: Symphony No. 5, Symphony No. 9
  • Mozart: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, 12 Variations on Ah, Vous Dirai-Je Maman,
  • The Magic Flute
  • The Star Spangled Banner and America, the Beautiful