Music Shapes the Mind and the Heart
An intrinsic part of the YCIS educational journey, music education fosters students’ creative expression while promoting their cognitive and social development.
Kindergarten to Grade 3
YCIS Silicon Valley is one of few schools to begin violin instruction in Kindergarten. The ideal instrument for supporting language acquisition, violin utilizes both sides of the brain and enhances children’s reasoning skills while developing patience, concentration, coordination and discipline. Social skills grow as students learn to play and perform together as a team. All YCIS Silicon Valley students study violin from Kindergarten through Grade 3. Students with a passion for continuing violin after Grade 3 may do so through the YCIS after school orchestra or audition for one of the youth symphony orchestras around the Bay Area.
Grades 4 to 8
Older students continue their music education with music theory and appreciation. They learn about composers from around the world, gaining a deeper appreciation for world music and culture.
Performances and Concerts
YCIS students in Kindergarten through Grade 8 perform in concert recitals each winter and spring to entertain family and friends with the music they have learned. Students may also have opportunities to perform in the community such as at the Mountain View Christmas Tree Lighting or visiting senior centers. Older students may audition to represent YCIS Silicon Valley in the Seeds of Hope international orchestra consisting of students from all YCIS schools. The international student orchestra performs in the annual charity gala in China to raise funds for the Seeds of Hope charity.
Music Enrichment – Orchestra, Choir and Field Trips
Music lovers choose to join lunchtime choirs or participate in the after school orchestra to learn a new instrument such as viola, cello or bass. Beyond the classroom, students enjoy field trips to concerts and musicals as well as presentations by artists who visit YCIS.
