Music
Music is more than just a subject—it’s a journey that begins in Junior Kindergarten and continues through Upper School, shaping confident, skilled, and passionate musicians along the way.
From the earliest years, students explore rhythm, melody, and expression, building a strong musical foundation. As they progress, they refine their talents through vocal and instrumental instruction, dynamic ensemble experiences, and specialized coursework.
Opportunities to perform abound, with concerts and showcases at every level that unite our school community in celebration of the arts. Whether mastering an instrument, harmonizing in choir, or taking center stage in an ensemble, our students don’t just learn music—they bring it to life.
Chris RydelDirector of Upper School Instrumental Music
I feel very fortunate that I can teach all my students to appreciate what it takes to be a musician. I love showing them how the skills we learn through playing in an ensemble can translate into everything they do in their lives now and in the future: self-discipline, perseverance, leadership, negotiation, collaboration, communication, and teamwork.”
A Journey of Musical Growth
- Lower School: Setting the Stage for Lifelong Musical Discovery
- Middle School: Sparking Passion and Skill in Every Note
- Upper School: Comprehensive Approach to Vocal and Instrumental Excellence
Lower School: Setting the Stage for Lifelong Musical Discovery
Middle School: Sparking Passion and Skill in Every Note
Upper School: Comprehensive Approach to Vocal and Instrumental Excellence
Notable Achievements
Our student musicians consistently excel in state, regional, and national competitions, earning recognition for their exceptional talent and dedication. Their achievements span prestigious events and programs, including:
- Brevard Music Center
- Boston University Tanglewood Institute
- Charlotte Children's Choir
- Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestras
- Charlotte Youth Wind Ensemble
- The Clef Hangers
- Eastern Music Festival
- Heifetz International Summer Music Institute
- Jazz Charlotte Summer Camp
- John Philip Sousa National HS Honor Band
- Meadowmount School of Music
- National Association for Music Education All-National Honors
- NC All-State Honors Band
- NC All-State Honors Chorus
- NC All-State Honors Orchestra
- NC Association of Independent Schools Honor Band
- NC Federated Music Clubs (NCFMC) Piano Festival
- NC Governor's School
- NC High School All-State Choral Festival
- NC Honors Chorus
- NC Music Teachers Associations (NCMTA) Piano District Contest
- Piano Guild Federation
- South Central All-District Band
- Union Symphony Youth Orchestra
- Western Regional Orchestras
- Young Artist’s Concerto Competition
- Youth Orchestras of Charlotte
Through their participation and achievements, our musicians don't just showcase their talents—they represent Country Day at the highest levels of artistic excellence.