Drumline (New Course)
Open to all students. No prerequisite of being in band. This class will explore the percussion
marching section of the band. You will learn different drum beats on multiple instruments. Bass
drum, snare drum, tri toms, and cymbals are the main focus instruments. You will learn rhythms
and how to decipher music. There will be some performance opportunities for you to showcase
your newly learned talents.
History of American Popular Music
Where does the music that we hear on the radio come from? This class tries to answer that
question, running chronologically from the founding of America and AfricanAmerican spirituals
through, blues, jazz, rock, country, and funk to today’s pop, hiphop, and R&B genres. Students
will hear what has inspired today’s artists, and be able to identify trends in music with a basic
music theory vocabulary. Class work includes biographies of performing artists, keeping track of
listening examples, and discussion of current musical events.
Introduction to Music Technology (New Course)
This a course designed to introduce students to musical concepts through the use of live sound
equipment, digital audio, MIDI. Each student will develop an understanding of the processes
involved with the creation of music in today's society. We will explore programs such as Logic,
Garageband, Audacity (an opensource audio editor), and Adobe Audition. Additional
opportunities may present themselves depending on student interest in the areas of live
recording scenarios and audio/video coordination.
Introduction to Music Theory
This course explores the basics behind what music works. Students will learn how to read and
write music, play keyboard, basic chord structure, and recording techniques. These skills will
help anyone interested in music, whether they enjoy just listening to the radio, are in a band, or
plan to pursue a career in music.
Jazz Ensemble
Selective group organized to provide experience in a wide variety of contemporary pop styles
(i.e. jazz, blues, rock). Development in showmanship, stage presence, and versatility are
stressed. Beside concerts and solo ensemble contests, this group attends various festivals and
workshops.
Popular Vocal Styles
With a focus on solo performances, this class explores the realm of all popular styles of singing,
from blues, jazz, to country and modern pop. The class will explore different repertoire choices
for different genres, proper and healthy vocal techniques, and basic skills like rhythm and
harmony singing. Students will be asked to sing alone as part of the requirement for the class.
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