• Music Theory

Concert Band is designed to take the learners and expand their knowledge of the basic elements of music (rhythm, pitch, articulation, expression, tone, and style) through the instrumental medium. This is accomplished through large and small groups and individual instruction. Mediums include concert band, marching band, pep band, jazz band, and solo/ensemble. Difficulty of music performed depends on the individual and collective ability of the performers. Participation in formal concerts, marching events, and large group contests is required.

Symphonic Winds involves advanced study of the elements of music (rhythm, pitch, articulation, expression, tone, and style) through the instrumental medium. This is accomplished through large and small groups and individual instruction. Mediums include concert band, pep band, jazz band, and solo/ensemble. Difficulty of music studied is of a very high degree, as is the expectation of musical maturity. Participation in formal concerts,

marching events, and large group contests is required.

The Freshman Choir is made up of all interested 9th grade singers. Freshman choir sectionals meet on alternate days and together on Fridays. The choir is introduced to Solfege, to proper breathing techniques, mouth positions for vowels, four-part harmony, intricate rhythmic patterns, and other fundamental elements of good choral music. The students sing mostly 20th century literature from the United States composers. The students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble, but participation is not required. Participation in concerts and group contests is required. Students have the opportunity to be involved in swing choirs and madrigals.

The Mixed Chorus is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors who either haven't auditioned for or made Concert Choir. The students are introduced to singing in Italian and German, do more advanced Solfege, and continue to improve vocally using the fundamental elements of music. The Mixed Chorus sings mostly 20th century literature with a few selections coming from the Romantic era. The students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble, but participation is not required. Participation in concerts and group contests is required. The students have an opportunity to be involved in swing choir, madrigal, triple trios, and double

boys’ quartets.

The Concert Choir is made up of juniors and seniors who have auditioned and met the requirements. The choir rehearses five days a week preparing for four regular concerts, choral festivals, contest, and community events. The students sing a variety of literature from

Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic to 20th century, rock, gospel, and spirituals. The students have an opportunity to express themselves vocally in madrigal groups, swing choir, double boys quartets, triple trios, barbershop quartets, duets, and solos. The concert group continues to advance and improve using all the fundamental elements of singing. The students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble. Participation in concerts and group contests is required. Each nine weeks the students are required to meet with the instructor for 8 voice lessons.

Music Theory

Music Theory is open to all band or choir students who have an interest in exploring in-depth the written and cultural aspects of music theory. This course includes doing written exercise and ear training. If proper equipment is obtained, the course will also include the use of computers and MIDI equipment. Music Theory is highly recommended for students pursuing music as a career. This course may be run as a class or independently, depending on the size of enrollment.