Visual and Performing Arts

Music

Music at Moore

J.T. Moore has award-winning band and string programs. Students are welcome to join as early as 6th grade and participate in a variety of performances, ensembles and clubs.  6th graders are exposed to the available instruments early in the year so that they can determine what is a good “fit” for them.  

In the 2022-23 school year, both band and strings earned the highest “Superior” rating at the statewide Concert Performance Assessment event.

band and strings students
What we love

Our students have the opportunity to discover and nurture their musical talent under the guidance of faculty who love music, music education, and performing music themselves!

Our school band director is Ashley Donaldson.  Mr. Donaldson is new the JT Moore this year and is excited to direct the amazing JT Moore Band! 

Our school’s strings director is David Henry. Mr. Henry began in the JT Moore strings program in 2016, after 2 years teaching 8th grade mathematics. Mr. Henry is originally from Georgia but has been a fixture in Nashville for many years following his opening of True Tone Recording in 12South. He has a background playing a plethora of instruments, from horns to guitar to ukulele to cello. His band, Brother Henry, has recorded 5 albums and played with the likes of Def Leppard, Taylor Swift, Steve Earle, Ben Folds, Guster, Cowboy Junkies, Indigo Girls, Jars of Clay, Leeland, Tim McGraw, Relient K, REM, and Widespread Panic.

Both music teachers bring their extensive professional connections into the classroom. Students have the opportunity to take additional lessons to develop their instrumental skills. Both band and strings classes perform concerts each semester, as well as performing at school events such as Open House and Graduation.

Dollywood Trip!

A tradition for several years now, each spring the band and strings classes take a day trip to Dollywood amusement park in East Tennessee! Students have the opportunity to fund-raise throughout the school year to help cover the cost of the trip. Our kids have a blast in this fun reward for their hard work and performance throughout the school year.