Music

Instrumental Music - The Glenfield Instrumental Music Program has opportunities for beginning and experienced student musicians on both band and orchestral instruments.  Students can choose an instrument from the woodwind, brass, string or percussion family.  The beginning instrument classes are open to any student and the large ensembles, Orchestra and Jazz Band, are by audition only.

Beginning Instruments (Strings/ Percussion/Brass/Winds)

(Full Year) These courses are designed to fit the needs of the instrumental music student by providing an exploratory situation for the student interested in learning a musical instrument.  It also provides a situation for the student who has previously played an instrument and needs to improve musical skills.  This may include orchestra strings, percussion, and woodwinds/winds.

Song writing/music producing

(Semester Course) Students in the Music Producing/Songwriting class will gain experience writing and producing music to fit multiple mediums such as radio, popular music, and film/TV. Students will learn the history of recorded music and how it has developed over the past century as well as to listen critically to all musical styles. They will learn to use Sound Trap as a music recorder and sequencer. Prior musical knowledge is a benefit but not required.

CI Orchestra

(Full Year) This is the school’s performing group that provides for the musical growth of the young musician.  Music is selected that will challenge the student’s performance on his/her instrument and prepare the student to continue musical study at the high school level.  Each member is exposed to a great variety of musical styles and receives many opportunities to perform. Entrance into this course is by audition only. 

CI Jazz Band

(Full Year) The Jazz Band is a small performing group.  The music performed is representative of many jazz and popular styles.  Basic jazz techniques are taught, including beginning jazz improvisation.  The chances exist for many performing experiences including ensemble and solo exposure. Entrance into this course is by audition. 

Intro to piano

(Semester Course) This class is designed as an introductory course for students who are interested in learning to play the piano for the first time. No prior musical experience is necessary. It is a group class where students will have their own keyboard to play individually or as a group. Here students will gain the knowledge to read music notation, learn basic music theory, and practice aural skills. 


Percussion Ensemble

(Full Year) The percussion ensemble is designed for students who are interested in learning and performing percussion music. Students will specialize in playing a range of percussion instruments, including drums, cymbals, xylophones, and marimbas.  Students will practice and develop their skills in timing, dynamics, and expression, reading music notation as well as teamwork and communication. The class will prepare students for performances, providing them with an exciting and rewarding experience.   An audition is required to enroll in this class.   A passion for music and a willingness to learn and practice is essential.


Vocal Music - The choral/vocal offerings provide for the development and growth of middle school vocalists through varied mixed, male and female ensembles.  Students study and perform for the public a widely varied repertoire while developing skills in reading and writing of musical notation.  Students develop and practice a vocabulary of musical terms to discuss and describe the music they are performing.  Proper rehearsal techniques encompassing self-discipline, cooperation and following a conductor are stressed.  Skills such as posture, breathing, intonation and rhythm are also incorporated.

Chorus

(Semester Course) This course is designed to foster good vocal technique.  The student will receive fundamental instruction in vocal production and blend.  The student will be given the chance to explore the field of vocal music with others who have the same curiosities.  This class is a good feeder system for the “Creative I” strand.  The student will be encouraged to move to that higher level of proficiency.

CI Chorus

(Full Year) The course is designed to promote expertise in large vocal ensemble procedures and performances. Proper vocal techniques and note reading are stressed as well as memorization and organizational skills.  Three and four part harmonies are utilized.

The student must pass an entrance audition and maintain a high standard of proficiency in CI Chorus.

Glentones (a capella)

(Full Year)  This is a Glenfield performance group that explores a variety of music in popular styles. GlenTones is an A Capella group that performs without any accompaniment besides their own voices! Here, students will be challenged to sing in multiple vocal parts with opportunities to sing solo or VP (vocal percussion/beat boxing). Students in this course will also sing music alongside CI Chorus. Entrance to GlenTones is by audition only.