McKinley funds supplemental enrichment in music for TK-2nd students provided by Music Rhapsody. Beautiful diverse songs, singable phrases, repetition with variety, the use of instruments, puppets and visuals all foster the love of music in an exciting and creative environment. It is a program that acknowledges and values the input and creativity of each and every child. Students learn about rhythm, melody, harmony, form and expressive qualities. To reach curriculum goals in these areas, the music teachers use singing, playing, moving, reading, writing, and creating.

3rd-5th grade music instruction is provided by SMMUSD. 3rd grade students are taught General Music once a week for 40 minutes and learn to use Recorders. All 4th and 5th graders choose either choir, string instruments, brass, or wind instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, or Trombone) and are taught 40 minute classes twice a week during school hours. The elementary music teachers are credentialed. SMMEF, the Gail Dorin Music Foundation, and the Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation fund the Dream Strings, Dream Winds and Dream Voice programs at our Title I school to support students whose families cannot afford additional music instruction. 4th and 5th students perform at Winter and Spring Concerts, and selected students perform in Honors Choir, Orchestra, and Band at “Stairway of the Stars” concerts. 3rd graders have class performances in the Spring.