Music Department
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
BAND - 405261
The MCHS band program provides for the study of music in various forms and styles for qualified instrumentalists. Comprised of all members of the band program, the marching band season starts with an annual pre-season band camp held for five days during August. The marching band functions during the first quarter and briefly during the fourth quarter in preparation for participation in the North Iowa Band Festival Parade. The marching band meets daily during the first period and for one and one half hours each Monday evening. This popular group within the community represents the school at all home football games.
Concert bands are the core of the program and begin during the month of October in conjunction with the end of the marching season. The Symphonic Band (select ensemble) and the Concert Band use musical performances as a vehicle to refine the skills of tone production, technique development, rhythm, intonation, ensemble playing, and musicianship. A variety of literature from different styles and periods of music history will be studied and performed. Both ensembles perform a public concert each quarter, as well as opportunities to audition for the All-State Band, participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival plus other special clinics and festival events.
Group lessons are a course expectation and scheduled on a rotating basis throughout the school year. Additionally, Symphonic Band Wind and Percussion sectionals meet once each week before school. Regular and punctual attendance is required for maintaining membership in all performing ensembles.
The following ensembles are available for participation by members of the band program.
JAZZ Band I, JAZZ Band II, Riverhawk Rock Pep Band
Course Notes:
PREREQUISITE: PARTICIPATION IN MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND OR PERMISSION OF INSTRUCTOR
Credits - 2
Grades - 9, 10, 11, 12
ORCHESTRA - 405281
The MCHS orchestra program provides for the study of music in various forms and styles for qualified string players. The string orchestra uses musical performance as a vehicle to refine the skills of tone production, technique development, rhythm, intonation, bowing, ensemble playing, and musicianship. A variety of literature from different styles and periods of music history will be studied and performed. This ensemble performs a public concert each quarter, as well as opportunities to audition for the All-State Orchestra, participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival, plus other special clinics and festival events.
Group lessons are a course expectation and scheduled on a rotating basis throughout the school year. Regular and punctual attendance is required for maintaining membership in all performing ensembles.
Course Notes:
PREREQUISITE: PARTICIPATION IN MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA OR PERMISSION OF INSTRUCTOR
Credits - 2
Grades - 9, 10, 11, 12
VOCAL MUSIC
CONCERT CHOIR - 405361
Concert Choir is an auditioned group of junior and senior students. Their required performance schedule includes three concerts, Follies, IHSMA State Contest and other arranged appearances. Class/private voice lessons are required to pass the course. These lessons will be arranged according to the student schedule, and are free of charge. The Concert Choir tours to national competitions and festivals every year. All tour expenses are the responsibility of the student and can be covered with fundraising opportunities. Various small performing ensembles are chosen from choir personnel including Chorale (Showchoir), Chamber Singers, and Madrigal Choir. Membership may be revoked by the instructor due to a lack of work ethic. Concert Choir meets daily for one period as a two credit class for a full school year.
Credits - 2
Grades - 11, 12
MIXED CHORUS - 405331
Membership in the Mixed Chorus is open to all 9th – 12th grade students. Mixed Chorus meets every other day for one period, on either the A or B day of the cycle opposite of P.E. (P.E. is only offered every other day for a full year as a special class of Mixed Chorus students). Mixed Chorus is a one credit class for a full school year. Three performances outside of the school day are required to pass the class. Class and private vocal lessons are offered subject to availability. Additional ensemble opportunities may sometimes be offered if available.
Credits - 1
Credits - 9, 10, 11, 12
VARSITY CHOIR - 405401
Varsity Choir is an auditioned group of sophomore, junior and senior students. Their required performance schedule includes three concerts, Follies, and the IHSMA State Contest. Class and private vocal lessons are offered subject to availability. Several ensembles, including Chamber Choir and Madrigal Choir are open to students by audition. Membership may be revoked by the instructor due to a lack of work ethic. Varsity Choir meets daily as a two credit class for a full school year.
Credits - 2
Grades - 10, 11, 12
