Around 59% of DCSD students participate in music programs, which means over 61,000 students. The elective programs include band, chorus, orchestra, general music, music appreciation, piano keyboarding, AP music theory, music theory, guitar, and music technology.
DeKalb County School District has been recognized as one of the “Best Communities for Music Education” by the National Association of Music Merchants in 2014, 2015, 2020, 2021, 2023 and 2024. DeKalb County School District provides general music education for all students from kindergarten through fifth grade. Students can begin their instrumental musical journey as early as the fourth grade, with opportunities to participate in elementary school band or orchestra. These young musicians perform concerts throughout the year and can join the elementary Honor Chorus, Honor Band, and Honor Orchestra.
At the middle school level, DeKalb County’s music programs stand as transformative spaces where students not only learn but thrive. These programs rank among the largest in Georgia, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and inclusivity. Middle school students are provided with opportunities to participate in various honor band, orchestra, and choral activities within the DeKalb County community and beyond. Under the guiding framework of the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA), students are exposed to state and national music festivals, jazz ensembles, solo and ensemble performances, and much more. Through these experiences, students not only refine their technical skills but also develop confidence, discipline, and a deep appreciation for the arts.
In high school, the music programs elevate this transformational journey, empowering students to lead, innovate, and excel on regional, national, and global stages. The band, chorus, and orchestra programs, also governed by GMEA, serve as catalysts for creative expression and community engagement. High school students annually participate in large group performance evaluation (LGPE), community concerts, parades, honor ensembles, jazz festivals, and marching band festivals. Many of these programs have earned national and international acclaim, with featured performances in prestigious events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Tournament of Roses Parade, and global trips to Africa, China, and France.
DeKalb students have also made their mark in major productions, including the Twentieth Century Fox hit movies Drumline and Drumline: A New Beat. These remarkable achievements are a testament to the vision, dedication, and artistry that define the Music Department.
The Music Department of DeKalb County School District serves all schools and centers K-12, providing a comprehensive and dynamic music education program that is committed to fostering artistic excellence, creativity, and academic achievement through music.
Vision
To inspire and empower every student through music education, fostering artistic expression, cultural appreciation, and academic success.
Mission
The mission of the Fine Arts Education Department in DeKalb County School District is to enable every student to become artistically literate, creative, and a life-long participant in Fine Arts.
We believe that:
- Music Education is an active, life-long process that is sequential and skill-based.
- Music Education fosters the development of mental focus and organization.
- Music Education provides a framework wherein students can learn intrapersonal and Interpersonal skills.
- Music Education involves, enhances, and contributes to the life of the community.
