General Music at Smith County High School is designed for students of all musical backgrounds who want to explore, create, and appreciate music in a hands-on learning environment. The course introduces students to music theory, music history, popular and world music, songwriting, composition, music technology, and basic performance skills. Students will develop creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration through projects, listening activities, and musical exploration while gaining an understanding of how music influences culture, media, and everyday life. Whether students plan to pursue music professionally or simply want to expand their appreciation for the arts, General Music provides a well-rounded foundation for lifelong musical learning.
Syllabus Link: General Music
Vocal Music at Smith County High School provides students with the opportunity to develop healthy vocal technique, musical literacy, and performance skills in a collaborative ensemble setting. Students will explore a diverse repertoire representing a variety of musical styles, cultures, and historical periods while strengthening their abilities in sight-reading, music theory, and vocal expression. Through rehearsals and performances, students build confidence, teamwork, discipline, and artistic excellence while gaining a deeper appreciation for the role of music in their lives and communities. No matter a student's level of experience, Vocal Music encourages personal growth and a lifelong appreciation for singing and the performing arts.
Syllabus Link: Vocal Music Syllabus
Instrumental Music is a comprehensive instrumental music program that provides students with opportunities to develop musical excellence, leadership, teamwork, and personal responsibility through performance and service. Students refine their instrumental technique, music literacy, and ensemble skills while performing a diverse repertoire that includes concert band literature, marching band productions, pep band performances, and ceremonial events. As members of the "Pride of the Upper Cumberland" Marching Band, students proudly represent Smith County High School at football games, community events, festivals, and concert performances. Through a commitment to discipline, collaboration, and artistic achievement, the band program fosters confident musicians, responsible leaders, and lifelong advocates for music and the arts.
Syllabus Link: Instrumental Music
Music and Film at Smith County High School explores the powerful relationship between music and visual storytelling. Students examine how music shapes emotion, character, mood, and narrative in film, television, and other media while studying the work of influential composers and filmmakers. Through active listening, film analysis, creative projects, and basic music composition and editing, students gain an understanding of the artistic and technical processes behind film scoring and sound design. The course encourages creativity, critical thinking, and media literacy while providing students with a greater appreciation for the role music plays in storytelling and the entertainment industry.
Syllabus Link: Music and Film
Greek Mythology
Greek Mythology is an engaging study of the gods, heroes, creatures, stories, and cultural traditions of ancient Greece. Students will explore famous myths and legends while examining the beliefs, values, conflicts, and historical context that shaped ancient Greek society and continue to influence modern literature, art, music, film, and popular culture. Through reading, discussion, research, and creative activities, students will analyze characters, themes, symbolism, and the lessons found within these timeless stories. Students will also learn to distinguish mythology from legends, fairy tales, historical accounts, and modern fictional stories while developing critical-thinking and communication skills.
Syllabus Link: SCHS Mythology
All music courses offered at Smith County High School are designed and taught in alignment with the Tennessee State Standards for Fine Arts. Instruction, curriculum development, performance experiences, and student learning activities are guided by these standards to ensure that students receive a comprehensive, high-quality music education. Through the study of music, students develop skills in creating, performing, responding to, and connecting with music while building musical knowledge, creativity, collaboration, and lifelong appreciation for the arts.
www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/standards/art/Fine_Arts_Standards.pdf
SCHS Mythology