Marcus Shelby Jazz Orchestra, grades K-8
In 2007, Rooftop began partnering with jazz musician and educator, Marcus Shelby, who shares lessons about jazz, its history, and its cultural impact on American society. His residencies include individual classroom visits that use music to tell the stories of great Americans such as Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Louis Armstrong. Other themes include exploration of the women’s rights movement through a study of women and jazz, and using music to express sustainability and social justice issues. Marcus’ residencies culminate each year with a live performance, giving our students the opportunity to hear live jazz performances as part of their school day.
SFUSD Classroom Music Sessions, Grades K-3 & 5th
Students enjoy weekly music lessons in the classroom with credentialed music instructor, Mrs. Flora Wong. Instruction in K-2nd grade focuses on teaching musical concepts through singing. In 3rd and 5th grades, students learn to read music through lessons in playing the recorder.
SFUSD Instrumental Music, Grades 4-8
Beginning in 4th grade, students can elect to participate in weekly instrumental music lessons, taught in small groups by Ms. Monica Leung and Ms. Marcella Guzman. Each year, instrumental music students host a Spring Festival performance for Rooftop students and community. Participating students are also selected to represent Rooftop in SFUSD’s district-wide instrumental music festival.
San Francisco Symphony – Adventures in Music (AIM), Grades 1-5
The San Francisco Symphony and SFUSD’s partnership provides this sequential music education program to all SF public elementary schools. The interdisciplinary program integrates live music performances with a curriculum that enhances students’ awareness of music in the context of everyday life. Throughout the school year, AIM brings performers from diverse musical genres for in-school, participatory performances. Classrooms are also provided with resources and student workbooks to support the curriculum. The program culminates with an annual visit to Davies Symphony Hall for a performance by the full San Francisco Orchestra.
Sing-A-Long, Grades K-5
Music and school community are celebrated every Friday morning with Sing-A-Long, led by teachers Ms. Vaughn and Ms. Margot.
Little Kids Rock!
Students in Mrs. Toupin’s Third Grade and Ms. Cruz’ Kindergarten learn guitar through this innovate program offered by this nationally recognized not-for-profit organization. 2011 marks the start of our “Guitar Buddies” program where the older students will help mentor the younger, and all students will share their newly acquired skills with each other.
Blue Bear Music After School
Electric guitar lessons and rock band sessions are led by musician, teacher and parent, Mike Rao. Rooftop’s rock bands often provide rocking performances for many school events, as well as performing at music venues around San Francisco.
Rooftop After School Chorus, Grades 1-8
This popular after school chorus club is led by Latin-pop vocalist and director Victor Cervantes and produced by alumni parent Victor Yan, with assistance from parent Bernadette Gabrielli. Rooftop’s Chorus hosts public performances twice a year.