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MusicMusic touches the mind, body, and spirit. Through the study of music we have the opportunity to have it become a compelling, meaningful, and powerful force in our lives. The serious study of music is vital to the appreciation and understanding of our culture and the cultures of the world. Through listening, performing, and creating music we are civilized and socialized. The music curriculum is based upon learning by experience. This is true from the very earliest elementary school classes through high school. The primary goals of the music program are to develop basic music literacy in all of our students and to insure that our students have a basic knowledge of music history and literature. To meet this goal all students take music through 8th grade. In high school all students are required to take one credit in music for graduation and may take additional classes for elective credit. Students are offered a variety of courses that fall into two categories: performance and non-performance.
Designs in Music This is a general music course for high school students. Participants will be encouraged to develop their skills and to increase their understanding of concepts to further their enjoyment of many kinds of music, whatever their present level of musical experience. The emphasis will be on the active production of music as well as the study of music theory and history. These activities might include such things as composition and/or conducting and performing on musical instruments as well as listening and lecture/discussion activities. Some of this might include the use of a computer.
Music History & Literature This course will focus on, but will not be limited to, the music history and literature of the Western World. The music theory associated with that literature will be an important part of that study. The sequence of the course will be historical but the chronology could be altered depending upon the topics being studied. In addition to historical information, the course will also focus attention on the melodic, rhythmic and harmonic properties of the music. Form, interpretation, and characteristics of style will be studied. Field trips and concerts will be attended during the school year.
Music Theory AP This course is designed for both the general student and the specialist to develop musicianship and musical taste through an understanding of the elements of music plus an understanding of form, design, and style. Included is work in harmony, ear training, sight singing, analysis, composing, and performing music. Some of the practice needed to become proficient in these areas will be accomplished with the aid of a computer. These materials are designed to assist the student in the learning process through the use of a computer. Computers and MIDI-equipped synthesizers have been assembled to form an electronic music studio offering students a powerful creative tool for the composition and production of music. The history of musical structures is also discussed. Students will be involved in the process of writing music and making judgments about what they perform and hear. This course prepares students for the theory portion of the Advanced Placement test.
Electronic Music Studio This course is designed for the advanced music student who is interested in working in a state-of-the-art music studio. Students will work with MIDI-equipped synthesizers and computers which have become the tools of musicians from an enormous range of styles and traditions. The purpose of the course is to develop skills in the use of present day technology as it applies to the music industry and to provide students with a powerful creative tool for the composition and production of music.
Independent Study In Music An Independent Study Project in music may be arranged with any member of the Music Department given the following circumstances: the student must have already fulfilled his/her music requirement from regular course offerings; projects should concern areas within the field of music which cannot be pursued through regular course offerings; and approval of the department. Students interested in pursuing Independent Study in Music should consult with the Coordinator of Independent Study, who will guide them in designing their written proposals. Completed proposals are then submitted to the coordinator for transmittal to the Music Department for approval. Because independent study projects are generally one quarter in length, written project proposals should be formulated for approval prior to the end of the quarter preceding the beginning of the project. Projects might involve advanced study in a music course, composition, study of an instrument, or development of materials for use in music classes. Students may also use independent study to gain experience in teaching by acting as a teaching assistant in music classes.
Instrumental Performance (Band) Band is open to students who have successfully completed the equivalent of eighth grade instrumental music. Placement in band is with consent of the instructor. Decisions concerning placement will take into account performing ability on an instrument, student needs, and requirements of the ensemble. The goal of these classes is to develop the comprehensive musicianship of each student by playing, studying, and analyzing musical literature from a variety of historical periods and styles. Formal evening concerts are given twice during the academic year. In additon, informal concerts may be scheduled at the discretion of the director. Participation in all performances is mandatory.
Instrumental Performance (Orchestra) High School Orchestra is an extension of skills obtained from previous study. As a student you will continue to develop your instrumental technique, sight-reading skills, ensemble playing, and comprehension of music theory as it applies to the repertoire in question. Opportunities to perform as chamber groups in and around the community are also available. Your full participation, positivity, and preparedness are paramount to your ultimate success in this course. Participation in performances is mandatory.
Choir Concert Choir is open to students who have the desire to sing in a choral ensemble. The emphasis of the experience is to develop the skills necessary for choral singing rather than solo work. Through the study and performance of standard choral literature from a variety of historical periods and styles, the students sharpen sight-singing, score reading and interpretation, vocal production, and language reading skills. Formal evening concerts are given twice during the school year. Participation in performances is mandatory.
Jazz Band Jazz Band is open to students who have successfully completed the music course required for graduation or are currently enrolled in that course. Emphasis is on the development of skills necessary for performance in a jazz ensemble. Jazz Band is open to both instrumentalists and vocalists. Though Jazz Band is basically a performance class, jazz history, literature, and theory will be studied. The Jazz Band will perform several times during the year. Participation in performances is mandatory.
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