Do You . . . like expressing your feelings and ideas visually, in writing, or by performing; enjoy using your creative talents; enjoy translating design ideas into design realities; enjoy artistic or musical activities; enjoy making speeches, debating, or participating in theatre?
If you have answered “yes” to more than half of these questions, this department may have courses for you!
For greater understanding of your interests, see your guidance counselor to review your interest inventory results.
Arts and communications are essential parts of our modern society. People in these careers share emotions, ideas, information, and innovations. They are creative people who enjoy sharing their talents with others. The arts include careers in film, theatre, television, radio, dance, music, and visual arts. Nearly all careers in the arts require special training. Anyone entering the arts must have strong communication skills, great determination and the ability to withstand disappointment and rejection. People in the arts need to be self-disciplined, creative, and able to express themselves through their art, whatever it may be.
MUSIC DEPARTMENT FEES: In addition to course fees, funds may be needed for trips and Solo and Ensemble Festival. Financial assistance will be available to students facing financial hardship.
VOCAL MUSIC POLICY: No student shall be granted two (2) credits of course work for singing in two different choirs at Wausau East during the same school term. This does not disqualify the student from participation in two choirs. The student participating in two or more choirs must be enrolled in and attending four (4) other courses in compliance with the full-time student definition.
CONCERT CHOIR
Course:
Women: 120021/220021
Men: 120041/220041 Credit: 1.0 Length: Year Year Taken: 10-12
Prerequisite: Consent of the Instructor after auditioning Fee: None
The elements of a fine choral ensemble will be developed by studying music of various styles and musical periods. The choir meets Monday thru Friday to prepare for four major concerts a year and for other school and community performances. All students must audition for permission to enroll in this class. May require additional funds for field trips (out of town concerts, theater tickets, and tours.)
MIXED CHOIR
Course: 120031/220031 Credit: 1.0 Length: Year Year Taken: 9-12
Prerequisite: Lumberjacks who like to sing Fee: None
Mixed Choir is open to all four grade levels and meets Monday through Friday to develop vocal and music reading skills. A wide variety of music styles are performed in major concerts throughout the year. Make new friends, discover talents you didn’t know you had and enjoy a “music break” in your day. May require additional funds for field trips (out of town concerts, theater tickets, and tours.)
ORCHESTRA
Course: 120061/220061 Credit: 1.0 Length: Year Year Taken: 9-12
Prerequisite: None Fee: $10.00
Instrument rental may be available for $30.00 per school year, plus upkeep and repair costs.
Orchestra students will explore a variety of music through performance and study on string instruments. Students will work to improve their playing ability and develop a comprehensive understanding of music. Those enrolled will participate in lessons in addition to their participation in class. Students will need black dress shoes and black socks to complete the formal concert attire provided by the school. Additional funds may be required for field trips and other special opportunities (out of town concerts, theater tickets, Solo and Ensemble, field trips, international tours, etc.)
GUITAR PERFORMANCE
Course: 220131 Credit: .5 Length: Semester 2 Year Taken: 9-12
Prerequisite: Course may be taken multiple years with instructor consent Fee: None
"From Floundering to Flourishing in 18 weeks!"
Students will establish a common level of familiarity and dexterity in playing the ACOUSTIC GUITAR
(All skills obtained are also transferable to ELECTRIC GUITAR - and numerous skills crossover to
BASS GUITAR ...or any pitched instrument) through class instruction and individual practice. A variety
of styles of music will be utilized to develop basic performance skills and musicianship
PIANO PERFORMANCE
Course: 120121 Credit: .5 Length: Semester 1 Year Taken: 9-12
Prerequisite: Course can be taken multiple years with instructor consent Fee: None
Learn to play the piano or improve your piano skills in this exciting semester long class. This
course is open to any student without prerequisites. All students will review basic skills and technique
regardless of prior experience. Technical focus will help students use the correct hand position and
fingerings while direct instruction of music reading (such as notes, rhythms, and (musical terminology)
will also be utilized. Multiple styles of music will be studied (classical, modern, popular, jazz, etc).
Students will have the opportunity to perform for their class regularly. Students enrolled in consecutive
semesters or students with prior experience will have differentiated instruction and assessment tailored to
their individual needs.
COLOR GUARD
Course: 120111 Credit: .25 Length: Quarter 1 Year Taken: 9-12
Prerequisite: None Fee: $35.00
The Color Guard is open to all students and performs with the marching band for parades and the marching band ‘season’ (the 1st 6 weeks of school.) Activities will focus upon dance, movement, and performance---with and without typical color guard equipment. Performance opportunities and travel are also provided. During the marching band season, 1-2 additional practices after school, may be required after school. Color guard members are expected to attend the two-day band camps during the summer, and the separate 2 or 3-day color guard (only) camp. No experience is necessary and you do not need to play an instrument. Color guard is open to all students.
SYMPHONIC BAND
Course: 120081/220081 Credit: 1.0 Length: Year Year Taken: 9-12
Prerequisite: Previous middle school band. Fee: $35.00
Instrument Rental: may be available for $30 per school year plus upkeep and repair costs
Symphonic Band is a year-long course open to all students who play an instrument (brass, woodwind, or percussion). Students will work to improve their playing ability and develop a comprehensive understanding of music. Performances are viewed as an extension of the classroom; therefore, attendance at all performances is required. Additional funds may be required for field trips and other special opportunities (out-of-town concerts, Solo and Ensemble, field trips, etc.)
Members of the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble will combine into the marching band, during the first 6 weeks of the school year. Individual/small group/or sectional lessons are required for all students during the school year, to increase their music reading and technique skills.
Additional Fees: Probable Fees for Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band: (based on previous year costs)
Marching Shoes--$30
Pep Band Shirt--$12
Band Participation Fee--$35
School Instrument Rental and Percussion Fee
Wind instruments (when available) and percussion usage fee--$30 (year)
WIND ENSEMBLE
Course: 120091/220091 Credit: 1.0 Length: Year Year Taken: 9-12
Prerequisite: Audition Fee: $35.00 (see additional fees below)
Instrument Rental: may be available for $30 per school year plus upkeep and repair costs
Wind Ensemble is an advanced band, open to all students (freshmen will need advanced permission from the instructor.) The activities will be similar to the Symphonic Band, but with more challenging literature. All interested students must audition for placement, prior to registration. Wind Ensemble membership is based upon instrumentation needs and playing ability. Regular practice on each student’s instrument is expected.
Members of the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble will combine into the marching band, during the first 6 weeks of the school year. Individual/small group/or sectional lessons are required for all students during the school year, to increase their music reading and technique skills.
Additional Fees: Probable Fees for Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band: (based on previous year costs)
Marching Shoes--$30
Pep Band Shirt--$12
Band Participation Fee--$35
School Instrument Rental and Percussion Fee
Wind instruments (when available) and percussion usage fee--$30 (year)