At Margaret Beeks, music is fundamental to the education of the whole child. It is a discipline and activity that is both pleasurable and fulfilling, and which ultimately brings lifelong satisfaction. Music education is important for its intrinsic cultural value and for its ability to enhance  and reinforce academic achievement in all areas of the curriculum. Higher order thinking skills, creativity, and imagination through self-expression are developed through the study of music.

The music curriculum used at Beeks is based on the music curriculum for Montgomery County Public Schools, which is based on the National and Virginia Standards of Learning for music education. It is sequential, spiraling, child-centered and experience based.

• Students are encouraged to actively participate in activities and songs that are developmentally appropriate.
• From Kindergarten students begin learning how to use their most natural instrument, the voice, properly and with confidence.
• Since singing best develops the musical ear, singing precedes instrumental training.
• Personal involvement in music making provides students with aural, visual, and kinesthetic experiences. Students participate in activities such as dance, discussions about art and literature, and playing simple instruments.
• Developmentally appropriate activities promote the understanding of the elements and structure of music.
• Folk songs and games of the American culture are used as a spring board to folk songs and dances of other cultures and to the music of the masters.
• Participation in music promotes respect for others, cooperation, responsibility, enjoyment and a sense of accomplishment.
• Musical activities lead students to make integrated connections with other disciplines.
  
  Sources:
  Montgomery County Public Schools Music Curriculum
  The Kodaly Concept of Music Education