Band

Concert Band 

This is a continuation level course for students with prior band experience. Emphasis is on the advancement of instrument technique, the further development of ensemble performance skills, and rehearsal and performance of intermediate to advanced level band music. This class also includes a basic introduction to theory and history in the context of performance. Membership is open to all high school brass and woodwind players. Performances and rehearsals outside of school hours are required. 

Prerequisites: None 

Grades: 9-12 

Concert Band Honors 

This is a continuation level course for students with prior band experience. Emphasis is on the advancement of instrument technique, the further development of ensemble performance skills, and rehearsal and performance of intermediate to advanced level band music. This class also includes a basic introduction to theory and history in the context of performance. Membership is open to all high school brass & woodwind players who wish to pursue music at a deeper level while in high school. Students will be required to participate in performance ensembles outside of Concert Band and attend and analyze other performances to earn honors credit. Performances and rehearsals outside of school hours are required. 

Prerequisites: Concert Band 

Grade: 11-12

Jazz Band

This class provides an introduction to a wide variety of popular music genres including jazz and rock music. Focus will be placed on stylistically appropriate playing and improvisation. Membership is open to students in Concert Band & Percussion ensemble classes. Others wishing to join may be selected by audition. Performances and rehearsals outside of school hours are required. 

Prerequisites: Audition 

Grades: 9-12

Jazz Band Honors 

This class provides in depth study of a wide variety of popular music genres including jazz and rock music. Focus will be placed on stylistically appropriate playing and improvisation. Students will be required to participate in band based extracurricular activities outside of the band classroom at GHS to earn their Honors Credit. Performances and rehearsals outside of school hours are required. 

Prerequisites: Audition 

Grades: 11-12

Percussion Ensemble 

This is a continuation level course for students with prior band experience. Emphasis is on the advancement of instrument technique, the further development of ensemble performance skills, and rehearsal and performance of intermediate to advanced level band music with a focus on developing total percussionists. This class also includes a basic introduction to theory and history in the context of performance. Membership is open to all high school percussionists. Performances and rehearsals outside of school hours are required. 

Prerequisites: None 

Grades: 9-12 

Percussion Ensemble Honors 

Membership is open to all high school percussionists who wish to pursue music at a deeper level while in high school. Students will be required to participate in performance ensembles outside of Concert Band and Percussion Ensemble and attend and analyze other performances to earn Honors Credit. Performances and rehearsals outside of school hours are required. 

Prerequisites: Percussion Ensemble or Concert Band 

Grade: 12

This class investigates how the different elements of music combine to create a piece of music, with a focus on harmony and rhythm. Students participate in written theory, sight singing, and ear training in this class, in addition to exploring creative composition with use of the tools of theory. This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of music. 

Prerequisites: None 

Grades: 9-12

In this course students will explore the intersection of music and modern technology. This course introduces the fundamentals of digital audio production, including recording, editing, mixing, and sound design. Using industry standard software and hardware, students will create original composition, remix existing songs, and experiment with electronic music styles across many genres, from rap to smooth jazz. Along the way, students will learn about MIDI sequencing, loops, synthesizers, and other audio effects, gaining hands-on experience in producing music that blends creativity with technology. No prior musical experience is necessary for this introductory course. 

Prerequisites: None

Grades: 9-12