“The aim and final reason of all music should be nothing else but the glory of God and the refreshment of the spirit.”  - Johann Sebastian Bach

General Music

K-8 General Music classes cover a broad range of musical theory, history, and practice. In weekly music classes, students learn the basics of music through singing, playing instruments, listening to music, and moving to music. 

Instrumental Music

Band (4th-8th)

The foundation of our instrumental music program is the Band. Students take weekly lessons on a variety of instruments including flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion. Small lesson groups are formed so students have individualized instruction. All instruction happens during the school day in pull-out lessons or during homeroom.

• Students participate in at least two performances every year (Christmas and Spring Concerts).

• Participation in the Band Program leads to a variety of other opportunities, such as Pep Band and the Diocesan Honors Band (6th-8th).

Pep Band (5th-8th)

This group performs at the Catholic Schools Week pep rally and select JV/Varsity basketball games in the winter. Students learn and memorize pep band songs in order to participate in this group. Students must be in the Band to participate.

Diocesan Honors Band (6th-8th)

The Diocese of Pittsburgh offers a South District Honors Band for all schools across the south region. JFK Band members are highly encouraged to audition for this group, which brings together the best musicians from across the region for a few rehearsals and a concert.

Vocal Music

Chorus (4th-8th)

The Chorus is the foundation of our vocal music program. The purpose of chorus is to learn music through development of the basic fundamentals of singing and music literacy.

• At least three performances are given each year (Christmas and Spring Concerts, plus a December performance at the Washington County Courthouse).

• Participation in the Chorus leads to a variety of other opportunities, such as the Schola Cantorum and PMEA vocal ensembles.

Schola Cantorum (6th-8th)

The Schola Cantorum (Latin for “a school of singers”) is responsible for providing vocal music at our weekly school Masses. The Schola is an auditioned group, accepting only members of the Chorus who would like to audition. Additionally, members must have a basic understanding of the Mass and demonstrate a proper reverence for it at all times. Within this group, selected singers may serve as Cantors throughout the year.