Music

Basic Ukulele

Course Code:

Prerequisite: None

Elective

1 Credit

In this course, the basics of playing the ukulele are presented in an ensemble-based, blended learning class format. Ukulele is a small 4 stringed guitar of Hawaiian origin. This includes group music learning, solo repertoire, and multi-part arrangements of original and traditional songs. Students will learn music fundamentals, music theory, guitar tablature and standard notation. Participation in concerts is mandatory. School ukuleles are available though having your own instrument is highly recommended.

Beginning Guitar

Course Code:

Prerequisite: None

Elective

1 Credit

This course is for guitarists with little or no experience. Students will learn open chords, power chords, movable chords, melodic playing, accompaniment techniques, and a variety of playing techniques. Students will learn music fundamentals, and music theory, read standard music notation, and some tablature. Participation in concerts is mandatory. 

Intermediate Guitar

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Beginning Guitar or successful audition

Elective

1 Credit

In this course, students will continue to improve their understanding and ability to read and play different staff notations, tablature, chord grids, and chord symbols. Students will also learn to utilize various right-hand styles such as flat picking, pick-strumming, fingerpicking, and finger strumming. A variety of music styles will be used including classical, jazz, rock and more. All after-school rehearsals and performances are required.  

Music in Society

Course Code:

Prerequisite: 

Grades 10-12

Elective

1 Credit

In this course, students explore the language of music through an introduction to basic elements, forms and styles across time. Acquaints students with composers' lives and influential creative individualities, discovering representative works and milestones in western society. Develops techniques for listening analytically and critically. Reviews historical development and significance of art music within the context of evolving societal structures. 

This is a UCGS transfer course.

Symphonic Band I

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Daniel Morgan Middle School Band or successful audition

Elective

1 Credit

In this course, students will learn and practice the fundamentals of music in a concert band setting. Concert band instrumentation includes, flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba and concert percussion. Special attention will be given to tone production, tuning, melody, harmony, rhythm and form as we listen to, practice and create music in an ensemble setting. The symphonic band will perform a fall and spring concert in the Patsy Cline Auditorium and will perform at the district concert band festival and at community events.  Students will practice and perform music at intermediate to advanced levels. 

Symphonic Band II

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Symphonic Band I

Elective

1 Credit

In this course, students will continue to learn and practice the fundamentals of music in a concert band setting. Concert band instrumentation includes, flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba and concert percussion. Special attention will be given to tone production, tuning, melody, harmony, rhythm and form as we listen to, practice and create music in an ensemble setting. The symphonic band will perform a fall and spring concert in the Patsy Cline Auditorium and will perform at the district concert band festival and at community events.  Students will practice and perform music at intermediate to advanced levels. 

Jazz Ensemble and Improvisation

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Daniel Morgan Middle School Band, John Handley band/guitar, or successful audition

Elective

1 Credit

In this course, students will learn and practice the fundamentals of music in a jazz ensemble setting. Jazz ensemble instrumentation includes, but is not limited to, piano, electric guitar, drums, electric or acoustic bass guitar, alto, tenor and bari saxophone, trombone and bass trombone, and trumpet. Special attention will be given to tone production, tuning, melody, harmony, form and improvisation as we listen to, practice and create music in an ensemble setting. The jazz ensemble will give performances throughout the year in the Patsy Cline Auditorium and at community events.