Why I Like St. Joe's:
[by the First Grade class]
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Saint Joseph School of Downers Grove
Music Program
Consider how music enhances your child's education. Study after study has demonstrated that music education dramatically increases early brain development and improves overall academic performance. The SJS Music Curriculum includes Grades 1 through 8. Music is taught every week to all classes. There are two recitals per year, one at Christmas time, and VIP Day in the spring. Mrs. Mary Schmitt is the music teacher and Director of the two recitals.
School Choir
The St. Joseph School Choir is open to SJS students in grades 5 through 8.
They perform at school liturgies on Tuesdays, and selected holidays during the school year.
It is directed by Mrs. Margie Farrell and Grade 6 teacher Mrs. Kathie Salek.
Choir rehearsals are held in school during the Monday Activity Period: 1:20 to 2:00pm
Handbells & Choirchimes
As part of the St. Joseph School music program there is a Choirchime training choir open to 5th through 8th graders, and the St. Joe Ringers Handbell Choir which is open to experienced ringers in grades 6 through 8. Each of these choirs plays for school Mass about once a month. The St. Joe Ringers play for the annual school Christmas concert and present other programs during the year. Both of these choirs are electives and classes are held once a week during the school day. Handbells and Choirchimes are tools for music reading and understanding as well as for the enjoyment, teamwork, and sense of accomplishment of the ringers. Research has also found that learning to play a musical instrument has a positive influence on other learning skills. Mrs. Sherrol Shea is the Instructor and Director for both activities.
Choirchime and Handbell rehearsals are held during school hours:
Choirchime: Wednesday Activity Period: 1:20 to 2:00pm
Handbells: Thursday Activity Period: 1:20 to 2:00pm
School Band
Students in grades 4 through 8 are invited to participate in the St. Joseph school band. Our bands will perform a Christmas concert, spring concert and at several school Masses. Lessons are provided by Band for Today. Practices are held as follows:
KinderKeys Piano: (Kindergarten through 3rd Grade): 2:15 - 2:45 p.m. [Day to be determined]
Beginner Band (4th Grade): Thursday, 1:20 - 2:00 p.m.
Intermediate Band: (5th Grade): Wednesday, 2:15 - 3:00 p.m.
Advanced Band: (6th through 8th Grade): Wednesday, 3:00 - 3:40 p.m.
All practices are held in the St. Joseph School Hall.