Instrumental Study is open to all levels of musicians. Based on a college course, ‘Applied Music’, the class offers both private instruction on the students' respective instruments of choice and a performance aspect. Students practice individually, then perform a piece for the class that they are working on. The performance may be an ensemble piece, solo piece or even just a scale, if they are a beginning musician. The students are then given constructive criticism from their instructors and peer group. The students then work on their pieces with supervision by instructors in order to develop individual, as well as performance, skills. The pieces are then performed later in the term for improvement evaluation. Students are assessed on their individual progress in both areas of skill.

Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Prerequisite: None.

During the first semester of Music Ensemble 1, the class is offered instruction in all aspects of performance with a music ensemble in a professional manner. The process includes selection of material, critical listening, the establishment and or transposition of key, arrangement, rehearsal and performance. Particular attention is given to the use of dynamics in a performance. Basic music fundamentals are also covered in the class, as well as individual instruction, when practical and necessary. Some of the selections rehearsed for performance this semester may include compositions by various artists that encompass as many genres and styles as possible. Historically, these have included traditional songs and standards, rock, jazz, reggae, funk, pop, fusion, classical and offshoots or combinations of one or more of these styles. Students are assessed by their performances at the school concerts or other on-campus performances, as well as class participation, attitude toward learning and development of individual ability.

Level: ??

Prerequisite: None

During the first semester in Advanced Music Ensemble, the class is offered instruction in all aspects of performance with a music ensemble in a professional manner. The process includes selection of material, critical listening, the establishment and or transposition of key, arrangement, rehearsal and performance. Particular attention is given to the use of dynamics in a performance. The advanced ensembles represent the school at various off-campus music-performance venues within the local community and beyond. They also perform at the talent shows, setting the pace and example for the rest of the classes. The level of musicianship expected in the advanced ensemble is higher than the other classes and is closely associated with a professional ensemble. Some of the selections rehearsed for performance may include compositions that cover a wide variety of styles and genres and are usually more difficult to rehearse and perform than those typical of the other music classes. Students are assessed by their performances at the school concerts and other on-and off-campus performances, as well as class participation, attitude toward learning and development of individual ability. Level: Advanced

Prerequisite: ??

In this mobile percussion unit, we march with bass drums and snare drums strapped to our bodies while playing rhythms from North America, Brazil and Africa. Instruments also include bells and shakers. We learn to play rhythms as a team and parade around campus lifting the overall spirit of the community and disrupting afternoon meetings. We also perform for our community during school concerts and aspire to join parades in town. Level: All levels

Prerequisite: ??