Membership is open to all students in grades 9-12 who play band instruments and have prior band experience. Students should be prepared to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency on their instrument by playing the following materials:
Seven major scales, (these do not need to be memorized)
Chromatic scale, (this does not need to be memorized)
Etude or exercise of appropriate difficulty
Instrumental lessons are required. The lesson consists of individual or group instruction one period per week and is scheduled on a rotating basis. Lesson materials will include lesson books, band music and small ensembles for more advanced players. Students should be prepared to make a commitment to learning from these materials by practicing on a regular basis. A minimum of three concerts per year are performed. The symphonic band may participate in other types of field trips and events. The performances are considered to be “exams”; therefore, credit will not be awarded to students who do not attend the performances without a legal excuse. Performance at the commencement ceremonies is also a requirement. Membership for the High School Orchestra is taken from the Symphonic Band on the director’s recommendations. Mixed Choir 945 ½ n/a
1/2 high school credit
Membership in Mixed Chorus is open to students in grades 9-12 who want to sing and learn about basic musicianship. Students should be prepared to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in basic music reading skills. A variety of choral works are explored to acquaint students with various types of choral literature, and to develop concepts and performance skills associated with varying musical content, structures, and styles. Choral techniques such as phrasing, tone quality, diction, rhythm, balance, blend, intonation, expression, and musicianship are stressed.
Voice lessons are required as part of this class. The lesson consists of group instruction one period per 2 weeks (approximate) and is scheduled on a rotating basis. Lesson materials are provided. Students should be prepared to make a commitment to learning from these materials by practicing on a regular basis. A minimum of two concerts per year are performed. The performances are considered to be “exams”; therefore, credit will not be awarded to students who do not attend the performances without a legal excuse.
1/2 high school credit
The Middle School - High School Full Orchestra consists of string players in grades 9-12 and brass, woodwind, and percussion students in grades 9-12. Admission and seating for string students is by audition where they demonstrate knowledge and proficiency of the instrument. The wind and percussion students are recommended by the high school band director and middle school band director for incoming 9th Grade students.
In school, instrumental lessons are required. The lesson consists of one period per week of individual or group instruction. Lessons are scheduled on a rotating basis.
The orchestra presents a minimum of two concerts per year. Other types of musical activities and opportunities are available for students to further develop their musicianship. The performances are considered the same as examinations; therefore, credit will not be given to students who do not attend performances without a legal excuse.
1/2 high school credit
Music Theory I is open to all students regardless of musical experience, however, the course is structured around advanced musical knowledge. Theory is designed to give students the basic understanding of the rules and principles, (or the “mathematics”) involved in reading and writing music. The course also teaches students to analyze music aurally and visually. Understanding key signatures, scales, chord structures and chord progressions on a visual and an aural level is the primary focus. Great for students who play an instrument, sing, or participate in a music ensemble!
1 high school credit