Music

Symphonic and Concert Band: 8th grade only
Students currently in Symphonic or Concert band are eligible to take this course.  Students will learn and review the fundamentals and techniques in instrumental music.  Students in Concert Band will be given the opportunity to advance to Symphonic Band. (YEAR LONG COURSE)

Musical Drama Description
During this 9 week course students will explore musical drama in its various genres such as; the impact of music of movies, major modern day musicals (i.e., Wicked, Hairspray, The Sound of Music, White Christmas) and their impact on American history/culture, the various roles in creating a musical (songwriters, stars, directors, producers, critics, and historians) and instrumental musical drama (i.e., Blast, River Dance, Stomp, A Stomp Odyssey).  Students will use video footage, reading and writing assignments, participate in class discussions in order to develop a deeper appreciation for this art form.  Students will make connections through music and how it relates to the world around them. 

6^th Grade Intro to Music
In sixth grade, students study a variety of musical concepts.  They will learn about the major composers, musical styles, and the evolution of musical instruments throughout history from the Medieval to the Modern Period. Students will also be introduced to world music and world instruments.  Students are also introduced to basic musical notation.  Students will apply music reading skills through composition, improvisation, and performance.  

7^th Grade Intro to Music Part II
In the seventh grade, students will advance the musical knowledge that they gain as sixth graders.  This course focuses mainly on music of North America and the Modern Period.  We will trace Modern musical styles back through history, all the way to Bach!  Students will also advance their music reading skills through a piano unit in which they will experiment with composition, performance, and improvisation.

7^th Grade Beginning Piano
This course is designed to provide a positive Music Learning experience through the development of piano skills.  This course is offered to all students, regardless of their piano skills.  We will focus on the technique necessary to perform simple, two-hand pieces on the piano.  Students will learn to read the treble and bass clef, musical symbols, and basic rhythm patterns.  Students will also learn about important figures in the development of pianos and piano music and will discuss a variety of musical forms. 

8^th Grade Beginning Guitar
This course is designed to provide a positive Music Learning experience through the development of guitar skills.  Chords, rhythm, form, and style are some of the concepts to be covered.  A guitar at home is recommended, but not a prerequisite.  Students will be provided with a guitar for use in the classroom.

8^th Grade Beginning Percussion
This course is designed to provide a positive Music Learning experience through the development of percussion skills and knowledge.  Rhythm, form, and style are some of the concepts to be covered.  Students will study Western and world percussion technique, history, and the evolution of modern percussion instruments.  No percussion experience is needed for this class.

8^th Grade Choir
Students currently in chorus, and students interested in vocal music are eligible to audition for this course.  Students will audition at the end of 7^th grade for placement into this group.  Students will learn and review the techniques in choral music.  Students will have several performing opportunities.  Students taking this class will be required to attend before school rehearsals.