General Music

How does music reflect and shape personal identity?

In this unit, students will explore the role of music as a form of personal and cultural expression. By analyzing structure, context, and intent across genres and styles, students will learn to articulate how music reflects who they are and how they engage with the world. Students will also evaluate music using both personal and collaboratively developed criteria, deepening their understanding of how we respond to music and why it matters. Through critical listening, reflection, and sharing, students will begin to shape their own musical identity — and recognize the identities of others through music.

In Unit 1, students will: 

1. Reflect on how their personal experiences, culture, and background shape their musical preferences

2. Engage in collaborative discussions and peer feedback to explore multiple perspectives on music

3. Develop and apply criteria for evaluating music beyond personal taste

How can I use musical elements such as melody, rhythm, and harmony to create and perform a musically expressive composition?

In this unit, students will develop their musical skills through theoretical analysis, performance, and composition, with a focus on performing major and minor scales (natural, harmonic, and melodic), rhythmic etudes in simple and compound meters, and constructing chords on a primary instrument. Students will compose and notate an original melody using computer-based notation software, applying their understanding of major or minor tonalities and demonstrating technical accuracy and expressive performance. The unit culminates in a final project that includes a written assessment and a live performance of their original composition.

In Unit 2, students will: 

1. Perform major and minor (natural, harmonic, melodic) scales, rhythmic etudes in simple and compound meters, and chords on a primary instrument.

2. Compose and notate an original melody using major or minor scales and various rhythms with computer-based notation software.

What types of compositional techniques are best suited for my level of musicianship?

In this engaging course module, students will dive into the fundamentals of composition, exploring melody, harmony, and structure. Armed with this foundation, they will then collaborate within small groups, selecting a music production tool to craft their own original song. Through hands-on exploration and creative teamwork, students will not only grasp essential compositional concepts but also gain practical experience in translating their musical ideas into fully realized compositions.

In Unit 3, students will: 

1. Explore and utilize various compositional techniques 

2. Combine their understanding of the first three units for their first group composition with a new song of their choice

3. Evaluate musical compositions and techniques

How has music been used as a protest tool throughout history? 

Protest music stands as a powerful testament to the fusion of art and activism, resonating across history as a catalyst for change. From folk ballads during the Civil Rights Movement to punk anthems challenging societal norms, protest music has provided a sonic platform for marginalized voices to challenge oppression and ignite social awareness. This genre transcends borders, languages, and eras, showcasing music's unique ability to amplify dissent and mobilize movements. As a vivid reflection of societal struggles and triumphs, protest music continues to inspire collective action and shape the course of social and political evolution. How can we utilize this today and is it still important?

In Unit 4, students will: 

1. Pull their knowledge for an in class presentation based on the song and protest area of their choice

2. Consider and evaluate previous units by completing an solo composition of their choice. 

What does it take to effectively plan, organize, and stage a live production show? 

Welcome to our engaging unit on Concert Production! Throughout this unit, we will journey through the intricacies of organizing and orchestrating live musical events that cater to diverse venues and ensemble sizes. Whether you're an aspiring concert producer, a versatile musician, or simply curious about the world of live music, we will explore the essential elements of designing and executing unforgettable concerts. From small, intimate settings to grand, open-air stages, you'll learn how to adapt your vision, logistics, and musical arrangements, ensuring that every performance is a harmonious and memorable experience for both the audience and the artists. Join us in this exploration of concert production, where versatility meets creativity to deliver extraordinary musical moments.

In Unit 5, students will: 

1. Collaborate and plan a live concert event featuring multiple venues and logistical strategies

How can we improve composition skills while building theoretical knowledge of music?

In this unit, students embark on an immersive journey into the art of musical composition, exploring diverse contexts and theories to deepen their understanding of how music shapes emotions and purpose. Through a blend of theoretical exploration and practical application, learners will delve into various musical contexts, ranging from classical to contemporary, to comprehend how composition techniques vary across genres and eras. 

In Unit 6, students will: 

1. Create multiple compositions varying in length and genre

2. Develop theory skills and reflect in strategies that composers use to portray emotion, and how that has changed throughout history 

How does musical composition affect what we feel emotionally during a visual presentation?

Welcome to our captivating unit on Music Technology and Scoring for Soundtracks, where we'll delve into the art of creating cinematic musical landscapes through cutting-edge technology and composition. Whether you're a composer, sound designer, or simply curious about the magic behind the scenes, this unit will introduce you to digital audio workstations, virtual instruments, and the intricacies of scoring for visual storytelling. From translating emotions to enhancing visual experiences, we'll equip you with the skills to craft your cinematic soundscapes, blending creativity and technology to shape the future of audiovisual storytelling.

In Unit 7, students will: 

1. Research and explore varieties of soundtracks 

2. Work together to compose a soundtrack of their own to intrigue emotions of a given visual 

How can we make more connections to music to display a visual representation of a live music production?

In this unit lesson, students will embark on a journey to unravel the multifaceted elements that compose an anthem and explore their profound impact on societies throughout history. Through a blend of historical analysis, cultural examination, and critical thinking exercises, students will delve into the core components of anthems, including melody, lyrics, rhythm, and symbolism. By examining diverse examples from different cultures and historical periods, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how anthems serve as powerful tools for expressing identity, fostering unity, and reflecting the values and aspirations of communities. Through engaging discussions and creative activities, students will not only dissect the elements of anthems but also reflect on their own connections to these powerful musical and lyrical compositions.

In Unit 8, students will: 

1. Research and explore varieties of anthems

2. Work alone to compose an anthem of their own with research and presentation on their research