General Music

GUITAR: An entry level course to learn an instrument that you can play and enjoy your entire life

Part I 

Grades 9 - 12

MU83 - ½ Elective Credit - ½ Year 

This guitar elective class is geared primarily for beginning guitar players. In this class, you will learn basic chords and be able to play simple melody. Standard guitar tab and basic music reading will also be covered. A focus of this class is to learn songs that are not only accessible to students, but songs that students know and would like to play. Guitars in school are provided however, students would be more successful if they also had access to a guitar at home.   This is a one semester course that may be repeated for credit.

Part II 

Grades 9 - 12

MU83B - ½ Elective Credit - ½ Year

This half year course is the sequel to beginning guitar. Students must either have taken Nauset's Guitar I class (or seek the approval of the instructor if you have prior playing experience). 

This class picks up where Guitar I leaves off and continues to expand students' portfolios of pieces and styles. Over 30 songs will be presented, as well as guitar topics such as: jazz chords, finger picking techniques and basic improvisation. Students do not need to bring their own guitars, although having one at home definitely helps students practice and succeed. Students will have some ensemble experience as well; playing with other students in the class setting.   This is a one semester course that may be repeated for credit.

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MUSIC THEORY AND COLLEGE PREP  

Grade 10  - 12

MU25 - 1 Elective Credit - Full Year

This is a full year course for musicians who wish to advance their knowledge of all aspects of music. For those students wishing to pursue music studies in college, preparation for placement exams will be emphasized. Skills including composing music, theory, ear-training, piano and guitar will be developed at an individualized pace. Music appreciation and history are also included. Students do not need to be a member of Band or Chorus to take this class. All musicians at NRHS are encouraged to enroll. Students not pursuing college studies will find this class beneficial to their own musicianship.  This class may be repeated for credit. 

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HISTORY OF ROCK & ROLL

Grades 

AR75 - ½ Year - ½ Elective Credit

"History of Rock" explores the evolution of rock music from its roots in blues and jazz to its impact on modern culture. Students will examine key artists, groundbreaking albums, and the social movements that shaped rock and America across decades. Through listening, discussion, and analysis, this course highlights rock’s influence on society and its lasting legacy in music history. This is a one semester course open to students in grades 9-12. 

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INTRODUCTION TO DANCE

Grades

TH55 - ½ Year - ½ Elective Credit

"Introduction to Dance" provides students with a foundation in various dance/choreography styles, techniques, and movement principles. Through practice and performance, students will explore the cultural and historical significance of dance while developing coordination, expression, and creativity. This course fosters an appreciation for dance as an art form and a means of personal and artistic expression.  Occasional performance may be required outside of the school day.  Previous dance experience is not necessary.  This is a one semester course open to students in grades 9-12 that may be repeated for credit. 

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CONTEMPOARY ENSEMBLE: Rock Band

Grades 

TH56 - 1 Elective Credit - Full Year

TH56HY – ½ Year - ½ Elective Credit

"Rock Band" is a performance-based course where students develop their musical skills through playing guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and/or vocals in a rock band setting. Through rehearsals, songwriting, and live performances, students will learn teamwork, stage presence, and the fundamentals of rock instrumentation. This course encourages creativity, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the rock genre while preparing students for live performance experiences. Some music theory will be discussed as well as live sound production.  Occasional performance opportunities may be required outside of the school day.  Students do not necessarily need to have instruments although instruments at home are helpful.  This class is open to students in grades 9-12 with some previous experience on guitar, bass, keyboards or vocals.  This is a one semester course that may be repeated for credit.

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PIANO KEYBOARDING: An entry level course to learn an instrument you can play and enjoy your entire life

Part I

Grades 9-12 

MU82 – ½ Year - ½ Elective Credit 

Learn to play piano and keyboards at your own pace!  Whether a beginner or advanced, all students will receive instruction to become a better pianist.  Learn to read music and play by ear.  Learn to write your own songs.  Enjoy playing duets with your friends or even with many friends in a larger piano ensemble.  There will also be time spent in group instruction on notation, music appreciation and theory. No public performance is required.  Practice can be done in class - you do not need to have a piano at home.   This is a one semester course that may be repeated for credit.

Part II

Grades 9-12 

MU82B – ½ Year - ½ Elective Credit 

Prerequisite: MU82 or permission of the instructor

This half year course is the sequel to beginning piano. Students must either have taken Nauset's Piano I class or seek the approval of the instructor if you have prior playing experience. This class picks up where Piano I leaves off and continues to expand students' portfolios of pieces and styles. Over 30 songs will be presented, as well as piano topics such as: jazz chords, playing hands together, and piano composition.  Students do not need to bring their own instruments, (although having one at home definitely helps students practice and succeed). Students will have some ensemble experience as well; playing with other students in the class setting.  This is a one semester course that may be repeated for credit.