Arts

Music Programs

The Gulliver Prep Music Department uses the approach of a performance-based curriculum. Students participate in conservatory-style lessons and master classes outside of the classroom setting, as well as solo performances in competitions, school, and community events. The music program classes include string, wind and percussion, vocal and jazz ensembles, as well as AP Music Theory. Students in both the middle and upper school programs attend the following competitions: Florida Band Association (FBA), Florida Vocal Association (FVA), and Music Performance Assessment (MPA) as well as other nationally adjudicated events.

Primary and Lower School Music
Grades PK-4

Starting in Primary School, students learn to appreciate and participate in the performing arts. We encourage our students to feel comfortable speaking and performing in front of others, seeing it as a positive experience and understanding the joy of performance.

Middle School Music
Grades 5-8

Students interested in the performing arts have the opportunity to develop skills to a high level of expertise and competence. Individual goals and class accomplishments lead to a positive experience and understanding of the joy of performance. The music program includes beginning, intermediate and advanced ensembles in the disciplines of band, chorus, and strings.

The Jazz Band is a nationally-recognized group of musicians adhering to a performance-based curriculum. This ensemble participates in as many as fourteen main performances during the year, including community concerts and judged performances. The Jazz Band has scored Superior Ratings at Florida’s Music Performance Assessments 10 years in a row.

The Jazz Band is open to students in grades 7 and 8 with previous instrumental experience. Auditions are required.

Students learn about a variety of musical genres, including jazz, jazz-fusion, rock, and classical. Musical growth is monitored weekly through assignments such as scales and exercises. Members may audition for local and state band organizations including Solo and Ensemble, All-State Band, and Honor Band. Students also have the unique opportunity of working with fine educators and musicians. Past guests include composer and arranger Bob Longfield, the Boston Brass Quintet, and the Young Patrons Opera.

Upper School Music
Grades 9-12

Gulliver Prep’s Upper School music curriculum provides a conservatory-level program for talented students with important venues for their musical abilities. Concert Jazz Band (Wind Ensemble, Pep Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Orchestra), Vocal Ensemble, and String Ensemble are performing units. Numerous opportunities for performance are afforded, including school functions and community, state, and national events. Students will also have multiple opportunities to participate in small ensembles as well as perform solos at the local, district, and state levels. Also offered with the music curriculum is AP Music Theory.