Classes Offered 

SYMPHONIC BAND: This course offers students a study of quality literature from traditional and contemporary composers as well as important compositions and arrangements from popular sources. Students will gain an understanding of intermediate training in musicianship, efficient and effective practice techniques, and excellent ensemble performance standards. Students will be scheduled for a weekly small-group lesson to better enhance individual growth. Advanced students are eligible to audition for ensembles such as Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble and Pit Orchestra.

* Prerequisites apply, see your Guidance Counselor.

PERIOD 9 BAND: This course is offered as a Period 9 for those students who cannot fit Symphonic Band during the regular scheduled day. This is a Pass/Fail only course. This course offers students a study of quality literature from traditional and contemporary composers as well as important compositions and arrangements from popular sources. Students will gain an understanding of intermediate training in musicianship, efficient and effective practice techniques, and excellent ensemble performance standards.

WIND ENSEMBLE H: Wind ensemble offers students the greatest challenges both musically and technically. Students learn the skills necessary to make the transition to college level music an exciting and enjoyable one through instruction in advanced technical skill with important aesthetic listening training. The repertoire that the wind ensemble performs is considered some of the most important standard pieces of literature with exploration of some of the latest contemporary sources available. Wind ensemble meets daily to prepare for evening concerts, graduation and school assemblies.

Prerequisite: Acceptance is by audition only.

MUSIC THEORY: This course is designed to introduce students to the basic elements of music. Instruction will include acoustics, note and chord analysis, chorale and four part composition, music history, arranging techniques and composing of original compositions. MIDI (musical instrument digital interface) technology and computer aided instruction will be featured in the student’s individual portfolio.

Grade 11 or 12 only. * Prerequisites apply, see your Guidance Counselor.

AP MUSIC THEORY: This course is designed to continue the instruction of Music Theory I. Intermediate and advanced music theory techniques, advanced ear training, and sight singing will be introduced. Romantic and contemporary music analysis and compositional techniques will be studied as well as intermediate MIDI (musical instrumental digital interface) technology studies in music writing and sequencing. Students will create a portfolio of work with an opportunity for their compositions to be performed at a chamber concert.

* Prerequisites apply, see your Guidance Counselor.

ORCHESTRA: This course is offered in grades 9 through 12 for string players only. The course includes the enhancement of string playing, musicianship, rehearsal technique, and small and large ensemble experience. Students will be scheduled for a weekly small-group lesson to better enhance individual growth. Students will explore all aspects of string playing and learn how to utilize their techniques to create meaningful music with their peers. Students will explore different genres of music as well as explore composition and improvisation. The Orchestra performs throughout the year as a large ensemble as well as small groups. HONORS ORCHESTRA requires teacher approval after auditions in September. 

* Prerequisites apply, see your Guidance Counselor.

CONCERT CHOIR: Participation in the choir involves the performance of music in its authentic style from every major musical period. Consideration is given to techniques and interpretation.

CHORUS This course is offered two mornings before school as a Zero period course receiving 2 credits as Pass/Fail only.