Course Description Handbook 2014-2015 Rev.2 | Page 46

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 African-American spirituals through, blues, jazz, rock, country, and funk to today’s pop, hip-hop, 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 open-source 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 St [\•