Music

Performing Arts Department Chair: Mark Robinson

The goal of the music program is to help students discover the value of music and all the arts in their lives. The study of music develops cultural literacy and aural sensitivity. General music classes and performing ensembles promote the development of musical understanding and technical skills and encourage the development of the imagination and aesthetic sensitivity. Students explore music from a wide range of cultures, styles, and musical traditions. In doing so, they develop a deeper understanding of music as a reflection of society and humanity. Opportunities for making music are available to all interested students. The large performing ensembles (chorus, string orchestra, and wind ensemble) rehearse during the curricular day and do not require an audition. Additional ensembles for highly motivated and capable musicians meet before or after school and students are selected by audition. Outstanding rehearsal spaces, two theaters, a music technology lab, and individual practice rooms support the musical experience.

4 credits in the fine or performing arts are required for graduation.

Music 7, Grade level: 7 (required)

Music 7 students examine the role of popular song in American culture and in their own lives from the perspectives of performer, composer, and social historian. The Music Technology Lab serves as a focus for hands-on exploration of popular song styles and their roots, beginning with the turn of the century and the blues. Using electronic keyboards and composition software, students arrange, create, and improvise. In small collaborative groups, students focus on music written to effect social change by creating their own songs and producing a short radio show on a topic of interest.

Middle School Chorus, Grade level: 7, 8

Middle School Chorus is open to seventh and eighth grade students interested in the study and performance of choral music. Emphasis is placed on basic vocal technique, music literacy, two and three-part singing, stylistic interpretation, and musical understanding through the study and preparation of choral literature from various cultures and musical traditions. The Middle School Chorus prepares music for at least two concert appearances each year. This is a full year course.

Middle School Handbells, Grade level: 7, 8

Handbell Choir is open to interested seventh and eighth grade students. Opportunities are available to perform a variety of music at school and in the community, frequently in conjunction with other Holton performing groups. This is a full year course.

Middle School String Orchestra, Grade level: 7, 8; Co-requisite: Private study recommended

Middle School instrumental music ensembles afford interested students the opportunity to grow through performance. Emphasis is placed on improving tone quality, developing technique/musical expressiveness, and acquiring an understanding of the stylistic characteristics of literature from various cultures and musical traditions. The ensembles rehearse separately. Middle School students may be selected by audition from the large ensembles for instrumental chamber ensembles, Chamber Orchestra, and Jazz Band. These are full year courses.

Middle School Wind Ensemble, Grade level: 7, 8; Co-requisite: Private study recommended

Portfolio Collaboration Lab, Grade Level: 10-12; Prerequisite: Students must participate in an ensemble . Credit: 1

In this interdisciplinary arts course, visual and performing arts students will work individually and collaboratively to refine works of art that they can include in an arts portfolio. They will spend time focusing on a solo project in their art form; honing their craft in order to perform or exhibit a piece, with a focus on personal artistic growth. They will also engage in a collaborative project with at least one other student from a different art form, to create an interdisciplinary arts project. Throughout the trimester students will share their works in order to receive feedback and learn to engage in articulate discussions around a variety of art forms.

Music Composition & Arranging with Technology, Grade level: 9-12, Credit: 1 per trimester

This is a one-trimester course in the Music Technology Lab designed for students interested in applying their technical and musical skills and knowledge in creative pursuits. Projects range from songwriting and arranging, to orchestration, to the creation of video soundtracks. Instruction is individualized according to the individual student’s level of experience.

Music Theory, 1 trimester Grade Level: 9-12, Credit: 2

This one trimester class will cover the basics and fundamentals of written music theory, while simultaneously cultivating aural skills. This class will serve as a traditional music theory course that covers the comprehensive subject matter of music theory. Among the topics to be covered will be pitch, pitch class, scales, the basics of rhythm, intervals, triads, seventh chords, two-voice counterpoint, and notation and scoring. In addition, this course will develop aural, sight-reading, and keyboard skills, that will correlate to all musicians in each of Holton’s performing ensembles.

Vocal Technique, Auditioning, and Cabaret, 1 trimester Grade Level: 9-12; Credit: 2

This course aims to provide students with a basic introduction to vocal pedagogy/voice function, breath management and control, repertoire study and selection, and an on-your-feet experiment in audition techniques, choices, best-practices, and rules/tips of the trade. Each student will receive individual coaching song choice, monologues, cold-readings, and even movement auditions.

It is our hope that students will walk away from the course with personalized repertoire (art songs, audition sides and monologues to add to their book for college, community, or regional audition opportunities.) Work with professionals and outside experts will be highlights to this course.

Upper School String Orchestra, Full Year Grade Level: 9-12; Co-requisite: Private study recommended, Credit: 3 for the full year

Upper School instrumental music ensembles afford interested students the opportunity to grow through performance and practice. This course develops the string player through musical technique and artistry. Repertoire from all musical time periods allows the students to develop the skills to play in many different styles and musical genres. Emphasis is placed on collaboration, teamwork, skill-building, and enhanced musical understanding. Annual concerts are presented in addition to optional local and regional events and competitions.

Upper School Wind Ensemble, Grade level: 9-12, Co-requisite: Private study recommended, Credit: 3 for the full year

Upper School instrumental music ensembles afford interested students the opportunity to grow through performance. Emphasis is placed on improving tone quality, developing technique/musical expressiveness, and acquiring an understanding of the stylistic characteristics of literature from various cultures and musical traditions. The Wind Ensemble and String Orchestra rehearse separately. Students may be selected by audition for instrumental chamber ensembles, Chamber Orchestra, and Jazz Band. All ensembles are full year courses.

Chamber Orchestra*, Grade level: 9-12, Co-requisite: Upper School String Orchestra or Upper School Wind Ensemble, Credit: 3 for the full year

Chamber Orchestra combines advanced strings with wind and brass players to explore symphonic orchestra repertoire. The ensemble meets two mornings per week from 7:10-7:55 am.

* Participation by audition only.

Jazz Band* Grade level: 9-12, Prerequisite: 2 years of study on instrument or departmental permission. Co-requisite: Wind Ensemble (except for guitar, bass, and piano) Credit: 3 for the full year

For Jazz Band, jazz woodwind and brass sections (saxophones, trumpets, and trombones) join forces with a rhythm section (guitar, piano, bass, and drums) to explore a wide range of jazz music. The Jazz Band performs in the Winter and Spring US instrumental music concerts. The ensemble meets two mornings per week from 7:15-7:55 am.

* Participation by audition only.

Upper School Handbell Choir, Grade level: 9-12, Credit: 3 for the full year

Upper School Handbell Choir affords interested students the opportunity to grow through performance. Emphasis is placed on improving technique and music expressiveness, and acquiring an understanding of the stylistic characteristics of literature from various cultures and musical traditions. Annual concerts are presented in addition to local and regional handbell festivals and collaborations. The unique techniques of handbell performance are taught through instruction and demonstration and the class is open to all students in the upper school.

Upper School Chorus, Grade level: 9-12, Credit: 3 for the full year

Chorus is open to interested students who share a passion for choral singing. Emphasis is placed on teamwork, vocal training, part singing, stylistic interpretation, music literacy, and musical understanding through the study, preparation, and performance of choral literature from various cultures and musical traditions. Upper School choral ensembles study and prepare music for at least three concert appearances each year. All ensembles are full year courses. Annual concerts are presented in addition to collaborations with other schools and the yearly ISCF Choral Festival at the National Cathedral.

Chamber Singers* Grade level: 9-12, Co-requisite: Upper School Chorus, Credit: 3 for the full year

The Chamber Singers are selected by audition from the Upper School Chorus membership. The Chamber Singers explore a cappella singing from the Renaissance to contemporary styles. The ensemble meets two mornings per week from 7:10-7:55 am.

* Participation by audition only.

Swing Choir* Grade level: 9-12, Co-requisite: Upper School Chorus, Credit: 3 for the full year

Swing Choir members are selected by audition from the Upper School Chorus membership. Singers/actors/dancers come together for this unique ensemble that explores a wide range of music from pop to musical theater. The ensemble rehearses during the school day.

* Participation by audition only.

Music FAQs

Do performing ensembles meet during the school day?

The large ensembles – Upper School Chorus, String Orchestra, and Wind Ensemble, all meet during the curricular day. Each ensemble has at least one after-school or weekend rehearsal prior to major concert performances.

Class times for select ensembles vary. Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band, and Chamber Singers meet twice a week beginning at 7:10 a.m. Handbell Choir and Swing Choir meet during the school day. Swing Choir and Chamber Singers usually have three to four rehearsals outside the school day per year.

Can I be in chorus and an instrumental ensemble?

Yes, if a student has enough open periods. Chorus does not meet simultaneously with band and orchestra.

Do I have to audition for the performing ensembles?

The Upper School Chorus, Wind Ensemble, String Orchestra and Handbell Choir are open to anyone who wants to participate. Students are selected by audition for Chamber Orchestra, Chamber Singers, Jazz Band, and Swing Choir. Students must be members of the large ensemble (Chorus, Wind Ensemble, String Orchestra) to audition for the select ensembles.

How can I fulfill the graduation requirement in the fine and performing arts?

The graduation requirement can be met by taking two trimesters of a minor course in the fine or performing arts, or one year in a performing ensemble.

When are the auditions for select ensembles? Are students new to Holton eligible to audition?

Auditions for Swing Choir and Chamber Singers are held in the spring for the following fall. Auditions for Jazz Band and Chamber Orchestra are held in the fall. Students new to Holton are eligible to audition for the select ensembles.

If I am interested in composing instead of performing, what other music courses are available?

"Music Composition and Arranging with Technology” is a trimester course taught in our state-of-the-art Music Technology Lab that focuses on fundamentals of music theory, composition, arranging, and exploration of multi-media tools.

Can I take a general music class and be in an ensemble?

Yes, if there are no schedule conflicts.

Can I be in an ensemble and participate in the plays?

Yes.

Can I be in an ensemble and participate in athletics?

Yes. There are no scheduling conflicts that preclude participation in both.

Do I have to take private lessons to play in an instrumental ensemble?

No, private lessons are not required, but they are STRONGLY recommended for all instrumentalists.

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