Instrumental Music

Grades: 9–12
Prerequisites: Approval of instructor and simultaneous enrollment in Concert Band. 
Credit: .5

Chamber music, or small ensemble playing, provides students a unique and valuable experience in their music education. It allows players the opportunity to explore and perform music written for a smaller setting specific to their instruments. It provides further opportunity for those who wish to develop their instrumental skills by placing greater emphasis on individual parts and independent playing. Through the performance of chamber music, students cultivate critical listening and thinking skills as they work collaboratively to prepare their music for performance.  At this time, the following ensembles are part of the Chamber Music class: Woodwind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, and Saxophone Ensemble. Students wishing to start additional ensembles should contact Ms. Wantock. Participation in all scheduled concerts is required.  

Grades: 9–12
Prerequisites: Previous Orchestra experience or private lessons, must also play in Upper School Orchestra. Approval of instructor needed. 
Credit: .5

Accountability and leadership are the main components of Chamber Orchestra.  Students choose to audition for this ensemble and commit to additional practicing and rehearsals throughout the school year. Chamber Orchestra provides students with the opportunity to play in quartets or quintets as well as a smaller orchestra setting. Students develop leadership in their section and a greater understanding of the importance of each person within a smaller ensemble.  

Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Two or more years of previous playing experience on a band instrument or approval of the instructor. 
Credit: .5

Since the early 1900’s, the school band has been a primary component in American music education. Students learn about music through active participation as performers. The major objectives of Concert Band include providing a quality large group instrumental performing opportunity by striving for precision, proper intonation and musical sensitivity; developing a broader enjoyment and appreciation for various types and styles of instrumental music; and offering students the opportunity to progress at their own pace with direction by requiring bi-weekly semi-private lessons. Small ensemble music (chamber music) is also incorporated when possible to provide students with a balanced instrumental experience. Attendance at all concerts and contests is required. 

Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Previous experience reading music.
Credit: .25

(Offered every other year) 

Music Theory is the science of music.  It is concerned with the knowledge of how music is constructed rather than the experience of music as a performer or listener. In this class we will study the elements that encompass the inner construction and organization of music. Topics that will be covered include note reading, scales, key signatures, intervals, chords, chord progression, four-part writing, and some beginning composition. This is an excellent introductory music theory class for anyone who is considering pursuing a music degree in college or wants a deeper understanding of how music is constructed. 

Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Admission through audition and simultaneous enrollment in Concert Band.
Credit: .5

Jazz music plays a unique and important role as an authentic American art form, and the study of jazz music provides a fascinating look into the cultural and historic aspects of the early 20th century in America. Jazz Ensemble offers trumpet, trombone, saxophone, piano, bass, guitar, and percussion players the opportunity to explore and perform the many varied forms of popular and jazz music developed throughout the eras of jazz history. It provides further opportunity for those who wish to develop their instrumental skills by allowing greater self-expression through improvisation in a smaller ensemble medium unique to the art of jazz performance. Participation in all concerts is required, and auditions are held in the spring for the following year. 

Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: None
Credit: .25

(Offered every other year) 

No one can deny the significant contributions and importance of movies in modern culture. From the earliest days of silent film to our modern-day blockbusters, music has played a vital and important role in how we see and experience the magic of movies. This course will explore the role of music in film. By studying the historical use of music in film, the various functions of music in film, current and former composers of film music, and the techniques and business of recording music for films; students will gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the emotional impact music has in how we perceive the images and stories we see on the screen. 

Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None
Credit: .25

Music Technology touches on some of the areas where the art of music making intersects with the various technologies present today.  In this class we will use various electronic devices and software to manipulate, compose, and perform music. Some topics covered in this class may include sound systems, digital recording, midi technology, composition, notation software, and film scoring.  The class will have a variety of projects that the students will complete. 

Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Previous Orchestra experience or private lessons
Credit: .5

Dedication to one’s art or craft requires practice and the desire to improve each day. Upper School Orchestra emphasizes the importance of each student putting time and effort into developing a high level of playing as an individual and ensemble. Through practicing in sectionals, large group rehearsals, and on an individual basis, students continue to develop their skills with shifting, vibrato and overall technical ability. Several performances provide students with the opportunity to share the progress they make throughout the course of the year.