Music at ISI
At ISI, music is a powerful form of creative expression that helps students build confidence, discipline, collaboration, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. From their first experiences with rhythm and song in the Primary Years Programme to advanced musical study and ensemble performance in the Upper School, students develop their skills through an engaging, globally minded curriculum.
Lower School Music Curriculum
Students in the Primary Years Programme (Age 3–Grade 5) participate in weekly music classes that build a strong foundation in musical understanding and performance. As students progress through the PYP, they revisit key concepts with increasing depth and complexity while developing their creativity and confidence.
Music instruction is centered around five core areas:
- Performing through singing and playing instruments
- Creating and composing original music
- Reading and writing musical notation
- Listening and musical appreciation
- Exploring music's role in cultures and communities around the world
Students learn to read and write music, recognize patterns and rhythms, sing in rounds and call-and-response, and explore the families of orchestral instruments. Through hands-on experiences, they discover how music connects people across cultures and enhances self-expression.
Upper School Music Curriculum
Students in Grades 6–12 continue their artistic journey through the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP).
In the Middle School, students rotate through music, theatre, and visual arts, gaining experience across each discipline. In High School, students can choose to pursue an arts pathway that aligns with their interests, allowing them to deepen their musical knowledge and performance skills.
Music students explore a wide range of musical traditions and genres from cultures around the world while strengthening their abilities as performers, collaborators, and creative thinkers. Through individual and ensemble experiences, students:
- Perform on a variety of instruments
- Develop technical and musical skills
- Create and interpret original and existing works
- Reflect on their artistic growth and creative process
- Collaborate with peers in small and large ensembles
The curriculum encourages curiosity, initiative, and critical reflection, empowering students to grow as confident musicians and lifelong learners.
Upper School Music Ensembles
Students are encouraged to continue their musical development beyond the classroom by participating in ISI's Upper School music ensembles. These performance opportunities allow students to collaborate with peers, build confidence, and share their talents with the school community.
Ensemble opportunities include:
- Instrumental Ensembles
- Community Band and Orchestra
- Musical Theatre Ensembles
- Community Choir
Participation is open to interested students at no additional cost, with registration coordinated through the Music and Theatre Department.
Upper School Performances
Throughout the school year, students showcase their musical growth through concerts, performances, and arts showcases that celebrate creativity, collaboration, and cultural understanding.
Students have opportunities to perform each semester in the Winter Arts Concert and the Spring Arts Night.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Music at ISI extends beyond the studio through enriching field trips and travel experiences that expose students to museums, galleries, cultural landmarks, and musical traditions. These opportunities allow students to experience art firsthand, engage with professional artists and collections, and deepen their understanding of global cultures through artistic expression.
