Timber Lane values the fine arts as part of a well-rounded education. All of our students receive music instruction and we encourage all Timber Lane students to participate in one or more of our performing ensembles. Participation in music activities not only improves learning in other areas, it enriches students' lives and truly creates "Citizens of the World Leading the Future."

GENERAL MUSIC
All students in grades K-6 receive general music instruction. Most Timber Lane students have music twice a week for thirty minutes. Instruction is based in the philosophy and practices of the Kodály approach, which emphasizes singing and the use of solfège ( do, re, mi , etc.) as the primary means of musical understanding. Students develop their ability to hear, read and write music. We also enjoy expressive and folk dancing and play the recorder and xylophone. Our goal is to experience great music to our fullest potential.

CHORUS
Students in 5th and 6th grade can participate in Chorus. Chorus rehearses once a week for 45 minutes and performs several concerts throughout the school year. Chorus teaches students to use their voices clearly and effectively, while learning a variety of music. At Timber Lane we believe everyone can and should sing, regardless of his or her experience or first language. The Fall 2008 concert was held just before Thanksgiving, and the Spring 2009 concert was held in May.

BAND
5th and 6th grade students can participate in band. Students receive group lessons once a week for 45 minutes on trombone, trumpet, baritone, flute, clarinet, saxophone, and percussion. As the students develop on their individual instruments, the full band rehearses together and prepares several concerts during the year. Instruments can be rented through local music stores or borrowed through Fairfax County Public Schools. See scenes from the Winter Concert and the 2009 Spring Concert.

STRINGS
Beginning in 4th grade, students have the opportunity to study stringed instruments (violin, viola, cello). Lessons are once a week for 45 minutes. As with band, instruments can be rented or borrowed. For concerts, strings students rehearse and perform together as a large orchestra. See scenes from the 2008 Fourth Grade Strings Concert. Playing a band or strings instrument is a rewarding responsibility. The more responsibility students take for practicing, the more rewarding their playing becomes. In January 2007, three hard-working students performed in the McLean Area Orchestra Concert.

We hope you will encourage your student's musical efforts, whatever they may be. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 703-206-5300.