Music
The music department’s philosophy centers on inclusivity, teamwork, and personal growth. At Amherst Central School District, we have a deeply rooted tradition of musical excellence in our PK-12 programs. We provide access for all to foster a sense of pride and belonging while nurturing self expression, self esteem, and peer leadership.
Program Highlights
- General music instruction starts at the Pre-Kindergarten level
- Recorders start in third grade
- Chorale ensembles begin in third grade at both elementary schools
- Band and orchestra education and lessons begins in fourth grade and each elementary school has a grade level band, chorus and orchestra
- Music education continues at the 6-12 grade levels with four bands, three orchestras, and five choirs. Numerous extracurricular opportunities include several jazz ensembles, rock concert orchestra, pop chorus, drama club, Operetta and musicals, pit and sinfonia orchestras, and several auditioned vocal ensembles.
- Music Theory coursework, including Advanced Placement, for grades 9-12.
- Individual Arts Assessment Pathway is a +1 graduation pathway with a locally determined sequence of music courses that demonstrates a high school student's growth over time and aligns with High School II (Accomplished Performance) NYS Standard Indicators. View the IAAP Curriculum Map.
Music News
![Conductor and student with a cello]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1732629132/amherstschoolsorg/x7pmc69tdvdimzrwgohy/MusicNYSSMA-POST.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1732629132/amherstschoolsorg/x7pmc69tdvdimzrwgohy/MusicNYSSMA-POST.jpg","width":305}])
![Two girls stand in hallway]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1731942816/amherstschoolsorg/yj3de7x3stwlz0ds3wi8/24-25JrHighAllState-POST.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1731942816/amherstschoolsorg/yj3de7x3stwlz0ds3wi8/24-25JrHighAllState-POST.jpg","width":305}])
![Teacher conducts orchestra]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1731697534/amherstschoolsorg/jr3moas1d3pj1ghwc3wp/DerekChazenNYSSMAConducts_POST.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1731697534/amherstschoolsorg/jr3moas1d3pj1ghwc3wp/DerekChazenNYSSMAConducts_POST.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1731697534/amherstschoolsorg/jr3moas1d3pj1ghwc3wp/DerekChazenNYSSMAConducts_POST.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1731697534/amherstschoolsorg/jr3moas1d3pj1ghwc3wp/DerekChazenNYSSMAConducts_POST.jpg","width":1103}])
Music Calendar
all day
AMS, ACHS
all day
SDS,WBS,AMS,ACHS
all day
ACHS
Our ultimate goal is to cultivate lifelong learners who embrace music as a source of joy and personal development. K-12 Music Department
Best Communities for Music Education
In recognition of outstanding achievement and our ongoing commitment and access to quality music education, the Amherst Central School District has been selected by the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Foundation as one of the Best Communities for Music Education in the United States continuously since 2017.
Music Offerings by Building
The Amherst Central School District Music Department adheres to National and New York State curricular standards and is committed to introducing its students to technology and a broad range of musical experiences.