Instrumental Arts

String orchestra is a performance based ensemble for violin, viola, cello, and string bass players.  This a challenging and fun program, designed to enhance each student’s understanding and appreciation for the classical repertoire, as well as a diverse selection of alternative styles including, but not limited to rock, jazz, funk, hip-hop, fiddle tunes, and world music. The orchestra offers students of all playing levels the opportunity to learn, improve and excel.


Concert and Marching Band (College Prep) (Academic) (Honors)

C722CF/C722CS 2 Semesters 2 Credits

C722AF/C722AS

C722XF/C722XS 

Prerequisite:

College Prep –  This is the beginner level. No prerequisites.

Academic – This is the intermediate level. It is awarded for students in their 3rd and 4th semesters as they demonstrate increasing levels of musical competency.

Honors – This is the advanced level. It is awarded for students in their 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th semesters as they demonstrate increasing levels of musical competency and leadership.

Course Description:

The structure of the daily learning experience includes development of instrumental technique, ensemble blend and balance, and musical expression. Required rehearsals and performances are mandatory unless excused by Band Director or Administration. The Band Director will determine these requirements and the achievement of competencies at each level.


Jazz Ensemble (College Prep) (Academic) (Honors)

C723CF/C723CS      2 Semesters              2 Credits

C723AF/C723AS

C723XF/C723XS

Prerequisite:

College Prep – This is the beginner level. No prerequisites.

Academic  – This is the intermediate level. It is awarded for students in their 3rd and 4th semesters as they demonstrate increasing levels of musical competency.

Honors – This is the advanced level. It is awarded for students in their 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th semesters as they demonstrate increasing levels of musical competency and leadership.

Course Description:

In-depth study of jazz styles, interpretation, and improvisation forms the core of this course. Concurrent membership in Beginning/Intermediate/Advanced Concert Band, Orchestra, or Choir is required unless approved by the Band Director and/or Jazz Band Director. The nature of this course allows for successive semesters of instruction at an advancing level provided that defined standards are achieved. Rehearsals and performances are required unless excused by the Jazz Band Director or Administration. The Band Director and/or Jazz Band Director will determine these requirements and achievement of competencies at each level.


Orchestra (College Prep) (Academic) (Honors)

C729CF/C729CS 2 Semesters             2 Credits

C729AF/C729AS

C729XF/C729XS     

Prerequisite:

College Prep – This is the beginner level. No prerequisites.

Academic  – This is the intermediate level. It is awarded for students in their 3rd and 4th semesters as they demonstrate increasing levels of musical competency.

Honors – This is the advanced level. It is awarded for students in their 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th semesters as they demonstrate increasing levels of musical competency and leadership.

Course Description:

String orchestra is a performance-based ensemble for violin, viola, cello, and string bass players. This is a challenging and fun program, designed to enhance each student’s understanding and appreciation for the classical repertoire, as well as a diverse selection of alternative styles including, but not limited to rock, jazz, funk, hip-hop, fiddle tunes, and world music. The orchestra offers students of all playing levels the opportunity to learn, improve, and excel. The cumulative class curriculum focuses on nurturing the personal growth of each member in the areas of technique, style, and musicality. A broad range of repertoire will be explored. Students will have numerous performance and learning opportunities. All members are expected to practice individually and to attend musical performances off-campus. Performances are required, including participation in ISSMA solo/ensemble and ISSMA Organizational contest. To participate in ISSMA solo/ensemble, students must be enrolled in a performing musical class, ie., band, orchestra, choir. Per All State Orchestra rules, to participate in All State Orchestra, students must be enrolled in Beginning, Intermediate, or Advanced orchestra. 


Piano and Electronic Keyboard I (College Prep)

C731CF/C731CS 1 Semester 1 Credit

Prerequisite:

None.

Course Description:

This course is designed to provide students the opportunity to receive small group or private piano instruction designed to develop performance skills. It is for both the beginning student and the more experienced student with an interest in expanding musical performance options. Individual performance will be explored, as well as the foundations of instrumental pedagogy. A variety of music methods and repertoire is utilized to refine students’ abilities in listening, analyzing, interpreting and performing. Students work at their own pace and individualized instruction is provided to meet the student’s needs. Performance opportunities available.


Piano and Electronic Keyboard II (College Prep)

C737CF/C737CS 1 Semester 1 Credit

Prerequisite:

Piano and Electronic Keyboard I

Course Description:

This course is designed to provide students the opportunity to receive small group or private instruction designed to develop performance skills. It is for both the beginning and the more experienced student with an interest in expanding musical performance options. Individual performance will be explored as well as the foundations of instrumental pedagogy. A variety of music methods and repertoire is utilized to refine students’ abilities in listening, analyzing, interpreting and performing. Performances are required. ISSMA competition is optional.


Advanced Independent Study: Music (Honors)

C725XF/C725XS 1 Semester 1 Credit

Prerequisite:

Open to seniors only and by permission. 4 semesters of Band, Orchestra, Choir, or Piano and/or permission of instructor.

Course Description:

Curriculum is written to the individual needs of the student. Contact Band, Choir, Piano, or Orchestra teacher for more information. 


Applied Music Instrumental Recital (Honors)

C730XF/X730XS 1 Semester 1 Credit

Prerequisite:

4 semesters of Band, Orchestra, Choir, or Piano and/or permission of instructor.

Course Description:

In Applied Music Instrumental Recital, students continue their playing either as a soloist or in a small ensemble. They must continue in Band, Orchestra, Piano, or Choir during this time. The students will learn more about their instrument, history of music and some theory. Students will prepare for a recital at the end of each semester. Some students may use this as a preparation for college auditions.

*Course Fee*