MUSIC
Choir/Vocal Ensemble:
This is a singing group designed to develop the voices and the ears of the singers. Students will continue learning music theory, sight-reading, sight singing, and performance skills while practicing singing and blending in an ensemble. Performances throughout the year are a requirement of this class.
Piano:
This course offers students a chance to progress at their own level and pace. All students learn to play piano by playing electronic keyboards using headphones. Students are graded on participation, effort, theory assignments and recitals. The Bastien Piano Series is used and will be provided by the Academy.
Beginning Band:
Beginning Band is for students with little or no musical training on a chosen instrument. Participation begins at the end of fourth grade with The Selmer Music Aptitude Survey and Instrument Fitting. The survey helps to define how children “hear” music. The fitting is designed to match desire with physical characteristics and musical aptitude.
Note: Beginning Band Percussion students must have at least 1 year of piano/keyboard instruction within the last two (2) years. Piano audition is required.
Beginning band students meet every other day in “like instrument” groupings to better ensure their success. After a few months, they will be able to play together as a collective band. The beginning band book, Essential Elements 2000—Book 1, is sold with a CD that allows students to progress at their own pace while enjoying professional accompaniment!
Intermediate Band:
Intermediate band is open to students who have played at least one year on an instrument. Last year’s beginners will automatically qualify unless they have changed to a new instrument. AN AUDITION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL NEW STUDENTS TRANSFERING FROM ANOTHER SCHOOL.
Advanced Band:
Advanced band is open to students who have played at least two years on an instrument. AN AUDITION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL NEW STUDENTS TRANSFERING FROM ANOTHER SCHOOL. This ensemble will perform full band pieces provided by the school in addition to scales and technical exercises found in Essential Technique 2000. Students will be required to participate in MSBOA Solo and Ensemble festival. Grades will be based on preparedness for class, practice cards, attendance to performances, playing test and written tests. Check out this video of our Advanced Band in action!
Percussion Team:
Class percussion is open to any percussionist with at least one (1) year’s experience of formal percussion study. This class focus will be on developing a well-rounded percussionist who can perform on: Marimba, Xylophone, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Timpani, Cymbals and the many auxiliary instruments found in the common percussion section. Through the use of The Performing Percussionist by James Coffin and a variety of percussion ensembles students will be prepared for any high school program of their choosing.
