Music
The goal of the music department is to give students the opportunity
to find a richer life by guiding them to a better understanding of
music. There are valuable
courses offered in several areas of music. All students, regardless
of skill level, are encouraged to participate.
Sequences
In order for students to receive a sequence in music they must complete five units of study. At least one of these units must be in music theory. The other four units may be earned through any combination of courses.
Band
Enrollment in band requires participation in
both Concert Band and Marching Band. Concert Band entails the study
and experience in repertoire and performance, including preparation
and presentation of assemblies and concerts. Marching Band entails
experience in marching techniques, including
presentation and preparation at all home football games, pep
rallies, parades, and field shows. All members will receive
instrumental lessons one period per week throughout the school year.
Outstanding students will be selected for placement in the following
groups on a non–credit, extracurricular basis: Select Band, Stage
Band, Ensembles, Participation in Suburban Scholastic Council music
functions, and participation in NYSSMA solo competition, Area
All–State, and All-State Bands.
Credit: 1
Grades: 9,10,11,12
Prerequisite: None
Final: None
Students are encouraged to attend summer camps.
Orchestra
Membership in Orchestra includes the study of
standard repertoire, techniques of concert performance, and
orchestral routines. All members are required to attend instrumental
lessons one period per week. Orchestra students participate in
winter and spring concerts in addition to the Strawberry Festival
and outside community performances. Outstanding students will be
able to apply to NYSSMA, Suburban Council, and Area All-State.
Students in High School Orchestra also are eligible to compete in a
national music competition held in the spring.
Credit: 1
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
Final: None
Select Orchestra
This is a non–credit, extra-curricular
organization. Select Orchestra is an ensemble for advanced orchestra
members. Members are selected through
auditions held in the spring semester for the following fall term.
Students in Select Orchestra are asked to prepare a solo piece of a
NYSSMA level 3 or higher in addition to three major scales in two
octaves. Students interested in joining Select Orchestra are
encouraged to participate in Select Orchestra Summer Camp held
during summer break. Select Orchestra performs for several functions
during the school year and also attends a National Music
Competition. This is a wonderful experience for students that are
looking to get more exposure to chamber orchestra literature and to
perform throughout the community.
Credit: None
Grades: 9,10,11,12
Prerequisite: Audition
Final: None
Students are encouraged to attend summer camps.
Choir
Choir is a credit-bearing ensemble with
membership based on instructor recommendation and/or audition.
Members perform a wide variety of vocal repertoire and learn
appropriate vocal technique and reading skills. All ensemble members
are required to attend one 40 minute vocal lesson per week.
Outstanding ensemble members will be encouraged to audition for
Select Choir, Suburban Council and All County music festivals and to
participate in NYSSMA. The choir performs at school concerts and
assemblies, the Strawberry Festival and select competitions.
Credit: 1
Grades: 9,10,11,12
Prerequisite: Teacher approval or audition
Final: None
Select Choir
This is a non-credit, extra-curricular
organization. It is a highly select group of choir members who are
advanced both musically and vocally. Members are selected through
auditions. The group performs at civic functions, concerts, and
assemblies. Students also participate in Suburban Scholastic Council
music functions, NYSSMA solo competitions, Area All–State, and
All–State choirs.
Credit: None
Grades: 9,10,11,12
Prerequisite: None
Final: None
Music Theory
Music Theory is the study of written music
and how it is structured. The objective of the course is to foster a
more sophisticated level of musicianship and to prepare the serious
music student for higher education in competitive music programs.
The course incorporates theory, sight-reading and solfege, ear
training, composition, music history, and music technology.
Credit: 1
Grades: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Students must demonstrate intermediate-level ability
to read music and belong to a school music ensemble. Students not
involved in an ensemble must get permission from the instructor.
Final: Exam
*Required for a music sequence.
Music Appreciation
The study of music from a listener's point of
view. Topics explored include the history of rock and roll,
classical music in our everyday lives (commercials, movies,
cartoons) and music reading foundations. Music Appreciation is for
students who are interested in music as an audience participant, as
well as those that would like to learn more about how music is
created. The class takes place in the music lab and participants
will have access to multi-media software and on-line resources.
Credit: 1
Prerequisite : None
Final: Exam
