The McCarthy-Towne music program seeks to involve all children in music in some way. There is an emphasis on music as movement through the use of rhythm games, folk dance, square dance, and musical drama. Students learn some of the techniques needed to play recorders and rhythm instruments, and to dance and sing. Listening skills are developed through music. Music appreciation and basic analysis are also part of the program.

Music texts and songbooks are used to supplement the faculty-developed curriculum. When possible, the music curriculum is coordinated with classroom social studies units. For example, French songs are studied by third graders in conjunction with their study of Paris. Other cultural units of study, including Ghana, Egypt, Japan, North American geography, Colonial times and Native Americans are also coordinated with song, dance, games and instruments.

Classes usually meet for music on a scheduled basis once per week. Kindergarten and Special Education classes have one half-hour session, and grades one through six have a 45-minute period. Third through fifth grades also meet as a grade level for six to eight weeks for chorus.