Music Program
The performing arts are alive and well in South Portland. Students study music at each grade level, starting with general music grades K-5. General music class exposes students to the elements of music and provides a variety of experiences, including singing, dancing, listening, composing and playing. All grade 4 students participate in recorder playing and Handbell Ensembles. Chorus and Band opportunities begin in 5th grade. All 5th graders participate in school-based and city-wide full chorus experiences, and band provides students the chance to apply their increasing skills on a traditional band instrument of their choosing, including flute, clarinet, alto sax, trumpet, trombone, baritone and percussion (mallets/drums).
In middle school (grades 6-8), students are provided further opportunities to explore their advancing musical abilities. Full Chorus, Concert Bands at each grade level, and music classes are offered in the school day. Additional ensembles and activities are offered outside of the school day, including jazz bands, honors chorus and band, beginner groups and more. Middle school ensembles perform throughout the school year in concerts, festivals, parades and community events. Our middle schools are proud that approximately half of the school population chooses to be involved in musical ensembles each year, and new students are always welcome!
High school students in grades 9 through 12 join a community of musicians who have enjoyed a tradition of achievement for many years. The choirs and bands of South Portland High School are regularly recognized for excellence at district, state and regional levels. There are numerous classes to choose from in the school day, including symphonic band, concert choir, chamber singers, music theory and piano class. There is a full array of extracurricular activities students are encouraged to explore, including marching band, jazz bands and combos, jazz choir, district and state level honors groups, and the annual musical.
The South Portland Music Program strives to offer a variety of challenging, rewarding and educational opportunities for our students.
Please visit the South Portland Music Boosters YouTube page for some recorded performances