Music Electives

Music Theory – Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Full Year - Level E 1 Credit

The Music Theory class incorporates a study of musical notation with the creative process of composing. This course is designed for students who are music enthusiasts and musicians with the desire to learn more about the music composition process.

Student will:

• Identify and apply the elements of music

• Explore the creative process of composition

• Develop ear training and sight reading skills

AP Music Theory – Grades 10, 11, 12

Full Year – Level H 1 Credit

Prerequisite – Completion of Music Theory Guidelines: Grade A- or better in Music Theory and teacher recommendation or proficient score on departmental assessment.

This course is a comprehensive investigation of 18th century harmonic practices, which have come to form the basis of our Western system of music. Students will strive to attain mastery of aural skills and cognitive concepts to a degree that is commensurate with a first-year collegiate music theory course. In addition to learning techniques and materials which pertain to writing and reading music, students will develop their listening, sight singing and analytical skills. All students enrolled in this course are expected to take the AP theory exam. Students will:

• Analyze and compose four-part music in the 18th Century part-writing style

• Identify musical elements in scores both visually and aurally

• Develop ear training and melodic/harmonic dictation skill

• Sight-sing music in major and minor

• Explore the creative process of composition

Voice Class - Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Half Year – Level E .5 Credit

This course, much like voice lessons, emphasizes vocal technique and provides opportunities for students to develop their vocal musical potential through solo and group song development. Voice class instructs students in basic fundamentals of vocal development such as strengthening vocal performance and professional stage presence and confidence. Students will explore a variety of singing styles such as musical theater, pop and the standards. Any student who wishes to sing is welcome to enroll.

Students will:

• Develop proper vocal technique and styles for vocal performance

• Understand and develop stage presence, confidence and

• Perform varied solo and ensemble repertoire

Music Theater Workshop -Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Half Year - Level E .5

Credit This course emphasizes vocal techniques for musical theater. The evolution of the Broadway musical will be analyzed and studied through a variety of repertoire and media. Students will also explore the creation of their own musical numbers with choreography, staging and song. Additionally, students will develop skills and strategies for auditioning and performance.

Students will:

• Understand historical concepts of musical theater

• Understand the elements necessary to perform in musical theater including proper vocal techniques

• Perform a variety of musical theater songs as a soloist and in ensembles

Music Through Time (formerly Music Appreciation)– Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Half Year - Level E .5 Credit

Ever wonder how and why music has evolved over time? Or why music is such an essential part of our lives? In this class, we will trace the historical development of music and explore its functionalities. In doing so, you will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for all types of music. Instruction will focus on examining specific forms, styles and genres in chronological order (Middle Ages - present) through listening, discussion, and analysis. Similarly, students will be exposed to some of the iconic works from the most famous composers and musicians from each genre. Students will complete two major projects at the end of each quarter; the first on a classical music composer and the second on a band or solo artist of their choice.

Students will:

• Obtain knowledge of various genres, composers, artists, forms, and styles of music throughout history.

• Identify, examine, and discuss music elements, characteristics, and forms of varied music genres.

• Develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for all types of music.

• Understand and engage with music through exploration, analysis, conveying ideas, and connecting

Electronic Music- Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Half Year – Level E .5 Credit

This course is open to all students’ grades 9-12. No music training is needed. Introductory compositional techniques will be studied throughout this course. Students will learn to create their own music using various applications. Musical styles to be studied will include but are not limited to pop, rock, EDM, electronic music, house and trap music. In Introductory techniques in mixing and mastering will be studied.

Students will:

• Learn introductory skills in music composition through creating electronic music

• Begin to use basic recording techniques

• Demonstrate their knowledge through music composition of various genres

Studio Recording – Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Half Year - Level E .5 Credit

This course is open to all students’ grades 9-12. No music training is needed. Music compositional techniques will be studied throughout this course. Advanced compositional techniques will be used and students will generate original music using various applications. Students will demonstrate their understanding by creating original compositions in various styles of music (pop, rock, EDM, LoFi, jazz, etc.). This course will also feature the use of introductory and advanced studio recording techniques including mixing, mastering, FX, and the like. Students will:

• Produce original compositions of various styles

• Learn advanced recording techniques

• Mix and master their own original music

Internet Broadcast Radio - Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Half Year - Level E .5 Credit

This course will explore all elements of Internet Radio. Podcasting is a major component of this class. Students will develop programming and learn how to record, edit, and post content through our Amity website and Live365. In developing content, audio hardware and software will be used. These include the use of USB microphones, recording software and proper editing techniques. Students will develop programming using general interest topics such as sports, food, music, movies and the like. Other content will include Amity events, interviews and community happenings.

Students will:

• Exhibit a solid understanding of news writing for broadcast.

• Work independently and collaboratively to create, record, and develop various podcast programs.

• Improve citizenship skills through increased engagement in the Amity community and beyond.

Guitar: The Evolution of Rock N Roll (formerly Guitar and American Music)- Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Half Year-Level E .5 Credit

This course is open to all students who are interested in the study of guitar and the history of rock n’ roll. This class explores the development and evolution of the guitar and hands-on instruction of guitar skills. Students will learn to create their own music using various applications. This course is designed for students who are music enthusiasts and musicians with the desire to learn more about the music making process. Visit the Amity Music Department Website for more information.

Students will:

• Obtain skills for playing melodies and chords on guitar.

• Understand the evolution and impact of the guitar on American music, history, and culture.

• Foster an appreciation for various styles of music in the rock n’ roll genre.