INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC THEORY

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

This course is designed for students fluent in reading music notation and currently active instrumentalists and/or singers. Introduction to Music Theory allows students to develop comprehensive musicianship skills through the study of the basic elements of music. These concepts include major and minor scales, intervals, triads, seventh chords, transposition, composition and arrangement, as well as basic aural training skills.

MUSIC PRODUCTION I

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

Music Production I students will gain hands-on experience using professional music studio equipment and software to create and produce music. In a recently updated state-of-the-art music technology lab, students are introduced to the basics of audio recording and editing, MIDI sequencing, loop and beat-based production, and DJ production. Students can share their independent projects in a wide variety of audio file formats and streaming sites.

MUSIC PRODUCTION II

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Music Technology I or Teacher Approval

Music Production II provides students who have taken the Music Technology I course with more advanced work in creating, producing, and mixing music. Students will work primarily with Avid Pro Tools software, the industry-standard digital audio workstation used in professional, project, and home studios. Skills learned in the Music Technology I class are refined and improved. New concepts include advanced MIDI sequencing and editing, effects processing, working with audio plug-ins, and the mastering process. 

PIANO LAB I

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

Piano Lab I is a beginner piano course with no previous experience required. Students will develop basic piano techniques and comprehensive musicianship skills including music notation literacy and music theory knowledge. In addition to students who would simply like to learn to play the piano, this course will enrich the study of music for current band, orchestra, and choir members. Students considering entering college as a music major/minor are strongly encouraged to take the piano lab courses, as keyboard skills are essential to the study of music theory, aural skills, composition/arranging, and more.

Requirement: It is mandatory that all students enrolled in Piano Lab I have access to a piano or keyboard at home for daily practice. The Piano Lab courses are performance-based with homework expectations taking the form of individual practice outside of class.  The Piano Lab teacher will provide recommendations for acquiring a piano or keyboard instrument. Paramus High School does not supply students with instruments.

PIANO LAB II

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Piano Lab I or Teacher Approval

Piano Lab II is designed for the experienced pianist/musician with a focus on chord/harmony skills, accompaniment, repertoire, and advanced musical performance. In addition to traditional piano techniques, students will develop skills relevant to popular music and jazz including; harmonizing melodies, chord substitution, accompaniment styles, transposition, and reading lead sheets.

Requirement: It is mandatory that all students enrolled in Piano Lab II have access to a piano or keyboard at home for daily practice. The Piano Lab courses are performance-based with homework expectations taking the form of individual practice outside of class. The Piano Lab teacher will provide recommendations for acquiring a piano or keyboard instrument. Paramus High School does not supply students with instruments.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT MUSIC THEORY

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 

Prerequisite(s): Grade of A or higher in Introduction to Music Theory + Teacher Recommendation

Requirement: Students are required to take the AP exam

AP Music Theory is essentially the combination of two college-level courses: music theory and aural skills/ear- training. The written portion of AP Music Theory covers the fundamentals of tonal harmony as established throughout the common practice period of 18th and 19th Century European Art Music. This includes harmonic analysis, melodic analysis, 4-part SATB chorale-style composition technique, secondary training skills include moveable “do” solfege sight-singing as well as rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation.

AP Music Theory requires a high degree of commitment to both academic and artistic work. Strong music notation literacy, technical ability on an instrument, and performance in a school-sponsored or other formal musical ensemble is strongly suggested. Students are expected to complete extensive written homework and to practice music material learned in class by singing, playing piano/keyboard, and performing on their primary instruments. Students are required to take the AP exam. Many colleges will grant credit and/or appropriate advanced placement to students who score well on the AP exam.

Dual Enrollment Opportunity: For this course, students have the option to register for Seton Hall Project Acceleration. 

The band program at Paramus High School consists of two separate performing ensembles: Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble (Honors). Both ensembles are academic classes that meet on a daily basis during the school day. Membership into the Spartan Marching Band is voluntary. Every band member will receive small group instruction during school hours, once per 4-day rotating academic schedule. The group lessons enable each student to enrich their ensemble experience, develop instrumental techniques, and gain comprehensive musicianship skills.  While students can enter the band program at any year of their high school career, it is highly encouraged that students begin in 9th grade and continue with their ensemble participation throughout all four years at Paramus High School. All incoming 9th-grade students enrolled in the band program will be placed into the Symphonic Band. All Symphonic and Wind Ensemble members will participate in regular scheduled high school concerts. Students accept the performance calendar as a condition of participation and as part of the course requirement.

SYMPHONIC BAND

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

The Symphonic Band provides all students, regardless of previous background and ability, with the experience of playing in a high-quality large instrumental performing group. A varied band repertoire, including traditional staples, holiday favorites, and arrangements of popular music is performed at the highest level possible to create an exciting and enjoyable experience while developing technical facility, expression, and ensemble skills. All incoming 9th-grade students enrolled in the band program will be placed into the Symphonic Band.

WIND ENSEMBLE HONORS

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Audition + Teacher Recommendation

Wind Ensemble is comprised of advanced band students at Paramus High School. Admission is gained through a placement audition during the previous school year, and the number of students accepted is based on set instrumentation authentic to the performing ensemble tradition. Wind Ensemble students perform the most advanced literature available to the wind band repertoire. Students in Wind Ensemble possess advanced instrumental techniques and musicianship and exhibit a strong desire to make music at the highest level possible. Wind Ensemble members receive honors credit for their participation in the class due to the advanced level work required, including the entrance audition, rigorous practice expectations, and performance schedule. If a student’s schedule permits, Wind Ensemble students are invited to also take the Symphonic Band class either on their primary instrument, or a secondary instrument.

Dual Enrollment Opportunity: For this course, students have the option to register for Seton Hall Project Acceleration. 

THE SPARTAN MARCHING BAND

The Spartan Marching Band, a voluntary afterschool program, performs primarily throughout the fall sports season, providing halftime shows for PHS varsity football games as well as participating in marching band competitions and festivals. Marching Band gives the students the opportunity to learn the discipline of marching techniques and the experience of performing a unique custom-written, theme presentation based on the wide variety of music associated with the Marching Band and Drum Corps tradition. The Spartan Marching Band also takes part in various parades and community events throughout the school year. All students enrolled in the Wind Ensemble and/or the Symphonic Band are encouraged to attend all Spartan Marching Band rehearsals and performances, including summer band camp rehearsals and holiday parades. Band camp rehearsals are traditionally held during the last two weeks of August before Labor Day weekend. Students will receive exact dates and times in June.

The Paramus High School choral program consists of three choral ensembles: Concert Choir, Treble Choir (Honors), and Chamber Singers (Honors). All choral students will receive small group instruction once a week in addition to their class time. The small group lesson enables each student to enrich his or her ensemble experience, develop proper vocal technique, and gain comprehensive musicianship skills. While students can enter the choral program at any year of their high school career, it is highly encouraged that students begin in 9th grade and continue with their ensemble participation throughout all four years at Paramus High School. All incoming 9th-grade students enrolled in the choir program will be placed into the Concert Choir. All Concert Choir, Treble Choir, and Chamber Singers members will participate in regular scheduled high school concerts. Students accept the performance calendar as a condition of participation and as part of the course requirement.

CONCERT CHOIR

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

The Concert Choir offers a high-quality mixed choir setting for all singers regardless of musical ability or background. Students will sing and perform a varied choral repertoire of music throughout the academic year. The Concert Choir performs four concerts throughout the academic year. All incoming 9th-grade students interested in the choir program will be placed in the Concert Choir.

Requirements: Concerts, Lessons, and Rehearsal Attendance

TREBLE CHOIR HONORS

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Audition + Teacher Recommendation

Treble Choir, an SSAA/SSA choir is comprised of advanced vocal studies at Paramus High School. Admission into the Treble Choir is attained through a placement audition in January of the previous school year, the number of students accepted is based on voice part availability and balance within the group. Students in Treble Choir possess advanced vocal technique and musicianship and exhibit a strong desire to make music at a high-quality level. The Treble Choir receives honors credit for participation in the ensemble due to the advanced level of work, expectations, required practice time, the difficulty of repertoire, and the performance schedule. In addition to participating in the four high school choral performances at PHS, students will also participate in a number of community events.

Requirements: Concerts, Lessons, and Rehearsal Attendance

Dual Enrollment Opportunity: For this course, students have the option to register for Seton Hall Project Acceleration. 

CHAMBER SINGERS HONORS

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Audition + Teacher Recommendation

The Chamber Singers is a mixed SATB choir comprised of advanced vocal students at Paramus High School. Admission into the Chamber Singers is attained through a placement audition in January of the previous year. The number of students accepted is based upon voice part availability and balance within the ensemble.  Students in Chamber Singers demonstrate advanced vocal technique and musicianship and exhibit a strong desire to make music on a high-quality level. The Chamber Singer members receive honors credit for participation in the ensemble due to the advanced level of work, expectations, required practice time, the difficulty of repertoire, and the performance schedule. In addition to participating in four high school choral performances at PHS, students will also participate in numerous community events.

Requirements: Concerts, Lessons, and Rehearsal Attendance

Dual Enrollment Opportunity: For this course, students have the option to register for Seton Hall Project Acceleration. 

The orchestra program at Paramus High School is a year-long class that upholds high standards for performance. It focuses on both the fundamentals and the advancement of string orchestra playing, including violin, viola, cello, and bass. Students not only develop an appreciation for music but also build proficiency on their chosen string instrument, learn to follow a conductor, and expand their music literacy. The program emphasizes providing students with a wide range of performance opportunities to apply these skills. Participation in all rehearsals and concerts is mandatory. Although students may join the orchestra program at any point during their high school career, it is highly recommended that they begin in 9th grade and continue through to graduation. 

PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None

Philharmonic Orchestra is an ensemble class open to all students interested in playing the violin, viola, cello, or bass, regardless of their prior musical experience. All incoming 9th-grade students enrolled in the orchestra program are placed in the Philharmonic Orchestra. This ensemble, designed for students from freshmen to seniors, focuses on developing the musical skills necessary for progression into the Chamber Orchestra. Emphasis is placed on improving individual technique, tone production, ensemble performance, ear training, and sight-reading.

In addition to regular ensemble classes, Philharmonic Orchestra members receive small group instruction once per 4-day rotating schedule during school hours. They also participate in all high school orchestra concerts. Seating assignments are determined based on auditions, ensemble needs, and the conductor’s discretion.

Before major performances, students rehearse with other ensemble groups in the Symphony Orchestra during after-school sessions held on Tuesdays. Participation in performances is a mandatory component of the course, and students are required to adhere to the performance calendar as part of their commitment to the class.

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA HONORS

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Performance Assessment & Teacher Recommendation

Chamber Orchestra Honors is an advanced ensemble class for 10th through 12th-grade students who play the violin, viola, cello, or bass. This ensemble represents the next step in the orchestra program, following the Philharmonic Orchestra. Members of the Chamber Orchestra perform a challenging repertoire and demonstrate advanced technique and musicianship. Admission to this ensemble is granted through a placement audition held during the previous school year.

Chamber Orchestra students receive small group instruction once per 4-day rotating schedule during school hours and participate in all high school orchestra concerts. Due to the advanced level of work required—such as the entrance audition, practice expectations, and a demanding performance schedule—students earn honors credit for their participation.

In preparation for performances, Chamber Orchestra members rehearse with other ensemble groups in the Symphony Orchestra during after-school sessions held on Tuesdays. Participation in performances is a mandatory component of the course, and students are required to adhere to the performance calendar as part of their commitment.

Dual Enrollment Opportunity: For this course, students have the option to register for Seton Hall Project Acceleration. 

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CLUB

Prerequisite(s): Must be enrolled in a scheduled music class.

Designed for orchestral musicians in training,  the  Symphony Orchestra provides the opportunity to study and perform the varied orchestral literature of the 17th through the 21st centuries. In addition, emphasis will continue to be placed on developing individual technique, tone production, ensemble skills, ear training, and sight-reading. Repertoire will vary annually.

Members of the Wind Ensemble may audition for the woodwind, brass, and percussion parts of the Symphony Orchestra. Students accept the performance calendar as a condition of club participation. Students must perform an assessment for the band or orchestra instructor prior to registration.

STRING VIRTUOSI HONORS

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Performance Assessment & Teacher Recommendation

String Virtuosi Honors is an advanced small ensemble composed of the most skilled and dedicated string players. This group performs a wide range of challenging string orchestra literature, including advanced works from the standard chamber ensemble repertoire. In addition to their ensemble repertoire, students also rehearse full orchestra pieces with other ensemble groups in the Symphony Orchestra during after-school sessions on Tuesdays and perform these works in concerts.

String Virtuosi students earn honors credit for their participation due to the advanced level of work required, including an entrance audition, high practice expectations, and a rigorous performance schedule. Members of this ensemble actively participate in competitions and festivals, such as NJSMA Region and NJMEA All-State Orchestra Auditions, NJSMA/NJMEA Orchestra Festivals, Chamber Music Festivals, and ASTA State and National Festivals.

Eligibility for String Virtuosi is open to students in grades 10-12. Due to the high performance expectations and mastery of advanced techniques, private lessons are strongly recommended.

Dual Enrollment Opportunity: For this course, students have the option to register for Seton Hall Project Acceleration.