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MUSIC
Additional Fees: Some classes will require outside projects for which parents will provide the
necessary supplies. Classroom teachers will communicate this to you.
SHBAND
Senior High Band
1 credit year long
Grades 9 - 12
The senior high band is designed to provide advanced musical experience in the large instrumental
ensemble for those qualified in grades 9-12. Individual musicianship as well as awareness and interest
in good music will be enhanced through instruction, performance and examination. Requirements
include attendance at daily rehearsals, and performances (both concert and athletic pep band), and
proper care and maintenance of equipment. Grading will also include a playing exam, lessons and a
lowering of a quarter grade by two full letter grades for an unexcused absence at a concert or contest
performance. WSMA music contests, musical festivals and clinics are other related activities, which
are beneficial to the musical growth of these involved students.
JAZZ
Jazz Ensemble
½ credit semester
Grades 9 - 12
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.
SHCHR
Senior High Chorus
1 credit year long
Grades 9 - 12
Designed to explore many distinct aspects of choral music, the Senior High Choir is open to all
students who are open to learning about vocal music. Students will develop important musical and
singing skills, such as sight-reading, harmony, rhythm, and tone to prepare them to sing in the future,
whether it is in a casual or collegiate setting. As a performing organization, one of the requirements is
to attend all quarterly concerts, which are announced at the beginning of the year.
POPVOC
Popular Vocal Styles
½ credit semester
Grades 9 - 12
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. Participation in Band or
Choir is mandatory.
POPMUS
History of American Popular
Music
½ credit semester
Grades 9 - 12
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.
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