Music & Theatre

This intensive course is designed to develop musical skills that will lead to a thorough understanding of music composition and theory. Students will be required to read, notate, write, sing and listen to music to develop their aural, composition, analytical and performance skills. Upon completing the course, students will be prepared and are required to take the AP® Music Theory Exam. Students going to college will be able to apply for credit or placement into advanced theory classes, depending on the individual colleges’ AP® policies. This course is for students in grades 10-12 (9th grade with private music teacher recommendation). Prerequisites: Some prior knowledge of music theory is recommended though not required. Must have experience on an instrument or voice

A class for any student who has never had piano before or wants a beginning refresher course. Small groups each have their own keyboard equipped with headphones which are removed for ensemble playing. There is some homework, but the majority of the work is done in class. A second semester class is offered for those who wish to continue.

Grade: 9, 10, 11, or 12

This is a non-performance class designed to give students a basic understanding of music and to inspire an appreciation for music from a variety of genres and cultures. We will apply the elements of music to our favorite music, learn how to read basic notation, use music terminology, and investigate how music has changed throughout history. We will also discuss instruments and ensembles, the differences in various styles and genres of music, and the creative process of writing and arranging music. The main focus in this course will be “Western” music (from ancient Greek to current American popular music). However, students will be encouraged to explore music from other cultures in individual projects. Students will demonstrate their knowledge through various hands-on activities, projects, and presentations.  Grade: 7, 8, or 9

This course is designed for the serious music student who wishes to focus on music as a possible career choice. Students will take three or more private music lessons per week.

Students work with our vocal teacher in small groups to perform short scenes from Broadway musicals. Students will learn to develop characters through class activities and performing group and individual pieces. Students will be evaluated on written work, performances and class participation. This class is scheduled after school two days per week. Prerequisites: All students must audition.

Students will study musical theatre genres and styles through reading, lectures and performing. Topics included in the course will include (but are not limited to) musical theatre history, audition preparation, and rehearsal strategies. Students will perform studied pieces individually and in ensembles. Students will be evaluated on written work, performances and class participation. This class is scheduled after school two days per week. Prerequisites: All students must audition. Necessary skills include tap, jazz, voice lessons, and the ability to match pitch and sing harmonies.

Women in Music is an investigation into and celebration of women’s musical activities in a variety of capacities and musical traditions. Students will learn to describe women’s experiences and accomplishments in several music-related fields and genres. Musical genres may include but are not limited to classical (past and present), popular, jazz, rock, stage (musical theatre and opera), and film music. We will consider the musical and cultural influence of women from the roles of creators and performers. Students will be expected to participate in regular class discussions, class presentations, and a final creative project. Grade: 9-12

ACTING I

ACTING II

Stagecraft

Improve and Sketch Comedy