Music

CYHS Panther Marching Band marching into Panther Stadium

Central York’s commitment to music education has earned the District the NAMM Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education designation for 19 years. This honor celebrates the partnership of students, staff, families, and our wider Panther community in keeping music at the heart of learning.

All students in grades K-8 participate in general music instruction, where they build foundational skills in rhythm, melody, movement, and music literacy through engaging, hands-on experiences. Students at the high school level can choose from a variety of elective music courses, including Music Theory, Music Technology, and other specialized classes that deepen their understanding and appreciation of the art form.

From intermediate school through high school, students have the opportunity to join Band, Orchestra, and Chorus, with performance opportunities that grow in scope and skill, from beginner ensembles to advanced, audition-based groups.

Whether students are discovering their first note or preparing for PMEA All‑State, our music program builds confidence, collaboration, and lifelong appreciation for the arts—hallmarks of what it means to be “Proud to be a Panther.”

Performance Calendar

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Best Communities for Music Education graphic

Extracurricular Music Opportunities

Band

The Central York Band program is a highly successful and widely respected initiative that provides young musicians with a strong foundation in instrumental music starting in elementary school. As students advance through middle and high school, they develop their skills through diverse ensemble experiences, challenging repertoire, and performance opportunities that inspire musical growth and lifelong passion.

North Hills Band (Grades 5 and 6)
Sinking Springs Band (grades 5 and 6)
Central York Middle School
Central York High School

Music is core and fundamental to education because it enriches the quality of life, is universal in nature, provides a cultural connection, educates the whole child, and teaches skills which prepare students for success in a competitive global community.

Chorus

Middle School singers perform at an outdoor event under a patio with a food truck in the background

The Central York Choral Program provides students with a strong foundation in vocal music while fostering a collaborative and inspiring environment beginning in elementary school. As students advance through middle and high school, they develop refined vocal skills, perform diverse repertoire, and engage in ensemble opportunities that promote musical growth and a lifelong passion for singing.

North Hills Chorus (Grades 5 and 6)
Sinking Springs Chorus (Grades 5 and 6)
Central York Middle School
Central York High School

Orchestra

Students practice their chellos/string instruments during a practice in the gymnasium

The Central York Orchestra Program provides students with a dynamic, skill-building journey in string performance, beginning at the Intermediate School and continuing through middle and high school. With opportunities to grow as musicians through ensemble experiences, advanced repertoire, and public performances, students develop both technical ability and a lifelong appreciation for music.

North Hills Orchestra (Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Sinking Springs Orchestra (Grades 4, 5, and 6)
Central York Middle School
Central York high school

Elementary Music Class group photo holding instruments in the classroom

Music Education in the Classroom

K-3 Music

Central York’s K–3 Music Program offers fun, hands-on experiences that foster a love for music. Students explore key concepts like rhythm, pitch, and timbre through singing, movement, games, and playing instruments.

Highlights include the popular Recorder program in third grade, where students learn to play the recorder and earn rewards as they progress. Across all elementary schools, students also have opportunities to compose music using digital tools, participate in special performance events, and showcase their creativity. From recognizing a steady beat in kindergarten to performing on recorders in third grade, the program builds musical skills in fun and meaningful ways.

4-6 Music

Central York’s 4–6 Music Program builds on foundational skills with engaging, hands-on learning that deepens students’ understanding of music. Students strengthen their music literacy through note reading, rhythm work, and vocal development, including part-singing to build confidence and independence. They also learn to play the ukulele, applying their skills in both solo and group settings. With a focus on ensemble work, rehearsal habits, and performance readiness, the program fosters collaboration, creativity, and a lasting appreciation for music.

Middle School Music

Central York’s Middle School Music Program builds on foundational skills through creative, hands-on experiences that deepen musical understanding and spark personal expression. In 7th grade, students explore Rhythm Foundations, Keyboard Basics, Guitar Basics, and Music Technology, learning to read, perform, and create music using instruments and digital tools like GarageBand. In 8th grade, students expand on these skills through music and lyric composition projects, where they write original songs, experiment with structure and melody, and produce their own recordings. Throughout middle school, students build confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills while discovering their unique musical voice.

Whether composing a beat or strumming chords, students discover their unique musical voice while developing confidence and collaboration skills along the way.

High School Music

Central York’s High School Music Program serves as the culmination of the K–8 music journey, offering students the opportunity to deepen their skills and explore their passions through a wide range of courses and experiences. Building on a strong foundation in music literacy, performance, and creativity, students can choose from classes such as Music Production, Applied Music, Music Theory, and Basic Piano, where they refine their musical abilities, study composition, and explore the role of music in today’s world.

In addition to coursework, students can participate in a variety of extracurricular ensembles and performance groups, providing meaningful opportunities to collaborate, perform, and grow as musicians.

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