Self-reliance, motivation, the ability to work as part of a team, self-discipline and time management are all skills that children need in order to be successful in life. If you could enroll your child in one class that would teach him all of these critical skills ­and raise his proficiency in math and scores on college entrance exams would it be worth your effort?   We offer such classes right here at Ballston Spa Middle School.

The New York State Department of Education mandates the study of the arts in middle level education as part of the core curriculum. Study in the arts is both rewarding and fun. Students who study the arts have the opportunity to develop their powers of analysis and expression. 

All students in Ballston Spa Middle School will study music and have the additional opportunity to participate in the band, chorus and orchestra. General music classes include a study of Latin American music, American Folk music, British fold ballads and African chants. Students learn to play keyboard instruments and guitars to accompany themselves as they sing and experience music in a very “hands on” environment. 

Performance groups in the Middle School include Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, String Orchestra and Chorus. Concerts are presented several times throughout the year and students have additional opportunities to participate in county music festivals and NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) sponsored events.

*Math skills, reading comprehension and problem solving are all important but we also like applicants who play music.  Someone who performs music knows how to learn.

Alan Asadoorian, director of U.S. construction operations for M+W Zander, builders of the Global Foundries plant in Malta