Courses

Guitar

Students will be introduced to the various types of guitars, their various parts and applications. They will be given fundamental instruction in music theory as it relates to the guitar. This will include, but not be limited to, chords, chord tabs, power chords, right hand strumming/picking techniques I, IV, V, chords in any given key, playing by ear and playing in an ensemble. Participation in all performances is considered an integral part of the course and is required.

Choir

This is the school’s premiere vocal performance ensemble. Students will learn and perform appropriate repertoire while exhibiting proper vocal technique and musical expression. Various repertoires will be studied along with sight singing and the elements of literature in English and other languages. Participants will perform at least 5 times a year, both during the school day and winter and spring evening concert performances. Participation in all performances is considered an integral part of the course and is required.

Music Appreciation

This is an analytical listening course.  Students will discuss, examine and discern the differences about musical styles and sociological aspects of each.  Studies will include all styles and genres of music, music history, theory, acoustics, and instrumentation. Two research papers and comprehensive tests are the basis of assessment for this course.

PERFORMANCE POLICY

   Attendance is mandatory for every member at every performance unless prior permission is granted by the director. Students are to report to the music room 30 minutes before the performance wearing the appropriate dress established for each concert. An unexcused absence from any performance will automatically result in a lowered grade as outlined in the school’s    mandatory performance policy.

    The director must be given prior notification of an absence with the performance/rehearsal excused absence request form in order for it to be an excused absence. The form must be turned in two weeks before the performance or rehearsal. Excusable absences include: death in the family, illness, or other serious circumstances. The performance/rehearsal excused absence request form will be given upon request.

Our music ensembles will participate in many different performances during the school year, all of which are listed under the "Concert Dates" tab found above. THESE CONCERTS ARE REQUIRED AND ANY UNEXCUSED ABSENCE WILL RESULT IN THE STUDENT RECEIVING A ZERO GRADE FOR THAT PERFORMANCE. Students who miss a required performance may be given a make-up assignment at the director’s discretion.