Summary
Music classes will develop an awareness, sensitivity and appreciation of a variety of music, teach skills in reading music, help acquire habits of concentrated listening, train students in vocal and instrumental performance, and contribute to the musical life of the school and community. Courses described here can be used to fulfill the one credit requirement for graduation in the arts.
Music Course Descriptions
Music Theory I*
Grades 10 – 12
1/2 credit
Prerequisite:
- Chorus or Band, and/or teacher approval.
Music Theory I is a half-year course offering an exploration of the materials of music. It is designed to provide the student a thorough exposure to the notational vocabulary of music and further enhance their fluency with such materials through classroom practice in ear training. Central to the instructional strategy will be progressional mastery through the “Practical Beginning Theory” workbooks of Benward, Jackson and Jackson. Topics include: Clefs, key signatures, time signature, melodic and harmonic intervals, major scales, minor scales, note values, rhythm, composition techniques and styles.
Music Theory II*
Grades 10 – 12
1/2 credit
Prerequisite:
- Successful completion of Music Theory 1 and/or teacher approval.
Music Theory II is a half-year course that would be the continuation of Music Theory A. This course would serve as a preparatory class for those students who may wish to major or minor in music in college. This class concentrates on part writing in two and four voices, harmonic analysis, harmonic progressions and advanced ear-training. This course might also offer projects in composition and performance.
*Music Theory I & II are offered at the AP Level when sufficient interest exists from qualified students.
Chorus
Grades 9 – 12
½ credit/1 credit
Chorus provides a cooperative group activity and develops individual talent. This course concentrates on proper vocal production and technique. It will improve listening skills and introduce classic and modern choral literature. Students are required to perform at the winter and spring concerts.
Band
Grades 9 – 12
½ credit /1 credit
This course provides a group activity in which pupils learn how to work cooperatively toward a common goal: the performance of music. The instructional program consists of sectional rehearsals, instruction of individual members, and full band rehearsals directed toward the technical advancement of the pupil’s musical skills. Students perform at the Pep Rally, Home Coming, the Winter Concert, the Spring Concert, and the graduation ceremonies in May and June. Students are expected to attend rotating pullout lessons.
Guitar
Grades 9-12
½ credit
Guitar is a performance-based techniques class offering introductory experience in and opportunity for development and improvement of fundamental skills in guitar. Topics covered include: Basic guitar playing technique; tuning, instrument care and basic maintenance; learning note names on the guitar fretboard and how to find them; reading music notes, rests, music symbols and guitar tablature from the printed page; reading melodies, chords and scales; identifying different music forms, structures and styles; basic strumming and picking patterns/techniques; performing a mixture of different song styles (including traditional, pop, rock, folk and blues) as a soloist, with a partner, and as a group.
History of Rock and Roll
Grades 10-12
1 credit
This course explores the history of rock and roll from its beginning to the present.