Music
The Germantown Academy Music Program provides students with a rich and inspiring musical journey that begins at an early age and continues through graduation. Music is introduced at the Sapling Center, where children as young as two participate in regular music classes that nurture creativity and a love of musical expression.
Beginning in 1st grade, students can learn an instrument and or join the choir. As students grow, every division offers opportunities in band, orchestra, and choir, with ensembles designed for a wide range of abilities and experience levels. Private lessons with professional musicians are offered on campus in every division. As musicians become more advanced, they may pursue additional challenges through Jazz Bands in all three divisions, Honors level ensembles in Upper School, and recital opportunities.
Throughout the year, GA musicians perform for the school community and beyond. Ensembles share their talents at local day cares and retirement communities, festivals, competitions, and national and international tours.
The music program helps students live the GA mission by developing technical skill, artistry, discipline, and teamwork, while fostering friendships and connections that often last a lifetime.
PRIVATE LESSONS WITH MASTER MUSICIANS
At Germantown Academy, students have the opportunity to deepen their musical talents through personalized, one-on-one instruction with accomplished, professional musicians and educators—all on campus.
Our private lesson program connects aspiring musicians with distinguished teachers who have performed with internationally acclaimed institutions such as the Royal Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, Philadelphia Orchestra, Opera Philadelphia, and the Maryland Symphony Orchestra.
These fee-based lessons are tailored to each student's interests, goals, and experience level, providing individualized guidance that helps students build confidence, refine their skills, and cultivate a lifelong love of music.
LOWER SCHOOL MUSIC:
BUILDING A FOUNDATION
The Lower School program believes music is a universal language that connects people across generations and interests. Students gain experience and confidence by using play-based learning and are introduced to a wide variety of musical styles, traditions, and cultures from around the world. The curriculum is designed to nurture curiosity and develop foundational skills, inspiring a lifelong appreciation for music and the performing arts.
MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSIC: LEARNING COLLABORATION
GA students have rich musical experiences during their Middle School years. They develop individual skills and confidence through working in a collaborative, compassionate atmosphere. Regular performances throughout the year are celebrations of student and ensemble achievement. The program shines due to an outstanding staff of individual instrumental and voice instructors, and extracurricular programs like Jazz Band provide opportunities to practice a variety of musical styles.
UPPER SCHOOL MUSIC:
FINDING YOUR PASSION
GA’s Upper School music program fosters self-expression, creativity, and artistic excellence in an inclusive setting. Students range from seasoned musicians to beginners picking up an instrument for the first time. The Honors program offers motivated students opportunities such as PMEA and ACDA auditions, adjudications, and community performances. Select alumni from the Germantown Academy music program have gone on to prestigious organizations such as The Julliard School of Music and the Curtis Institute of Music.
