MUSIC 8: BEGINNER BAND
This course is an introduction course in which students are introduced to the technique, rudiments, and maintenance of a selected band instrument. Concepts such as articulation, embouchure, blend, balance, tone, and style are introduced to form a foundation of musical awareness that encourages expression, reflections, and performance. All Grade 8 band classes are a part of the junior band. Students will be required to attend any and all scheduled extra-curricular rehearsals and performances as part of the course expectations. Students should choose Beginner Band 8 if they have no previous experience with an instrument.
MUSIC 8: CONCERT BAND
This course is intended for students who have already taken Elementary Grade 7 Band course. The course will involve instrumental technique, performance, theory, music history, and music appreciation as they relate to the repertoire studied. All Grade 8 band classes are a part of the junior band. Students will be required to attend any and all scheduled extra-curricular rehearsals and performances as part of the course expectations.
MUSIC 9/10: CONCERT BAND
This course is intended for students who have taken a band course in Grade 8. The course will involve instrumental technique, performance, theory, music history, and music appreciation as they relate to the repertoire studied. Grade 9s and 10s make up the intermediate band, which provides leadership opportunities for more experienced players. Students will be required to attend any and all scheduled extra-curricular rehearsals and performances as part of the course expectations.
MUSIC 11/12: CONCERT BAND (Offered outside the timetable)
In this course, students will continue their exploration of repertoire, instrumental performance technique, and small ensemble/solo work in addition to more advanced studies in theory and music history related to the repertoire studied. Grade 11s and 12s make up the senior band, which provides leadership opportunities for more experienced players. Students will be required to attend any and all scheduled extra-curricular rehearsals and performances as part of the course expectations.
MUSIC 9/10: JAZZ BAND (Offered outside the timetable)
Students will gain a general knowledge of jazz styles and interpretation, as well as the techniques and rhythms unique to jazz. Students will learn fundamental jazz improvisation skills. Students in grade 9 and 10 make up the Junior Jazz Band. Instruments are: trumpet, trombone, saxophone (alto, tenor, bari) and rhythm section (piano, bass, drums, and guitar). Students will be required to attend any and all scheduled extra-curricular rehearsals and performances as part of the course expectations. Please see the band teacher if you are interested in this course. This is an auditioned ensemble.
MUSIC 11/12: JAZZ BAND (Offered outside the timetable)
Students continue developing improvisational skills, exploring jazz styles, and providing leadership within this advanced ensemble. Students in grade 11 and 12 make up the Senior Jazz band. Instruments are: trumpet, trombone, saxophone (alto, tenor, bari) and rhythm section (piano, bass, drums, and guitar). Students will be required to attend any and all scheduled extra-curricular rehearsals and performances as part of the course expectations. Please see the band teacher if you are interested in this course. This is an auditioned ensemble
MUSIC 8/9/10/11/12: CONCERT CHOIR (Offered outside the timetable)
This course gives students a unique opportunity to learn in an ensemble made up of students from grade 8 through 12, allowing for a lot of leadership from our more advanced students, and a chance for our beginners to learn from other students who have been in the group for years. Through the exploration of repertoire we build vocal technique, ear training skills, and music literacy. Students will be required to attend any and all scheduled extra-curricular rehearsals and performances as part of the course expectations. No previous experience necessary.
MUSIC 8/9/10/11/12: CHAMBER CHOIR (Offered outside the timetable)
This course is meant to give an advanced level of choral learning to students who have strong enough skills to participate in the ensemble. We explore advanced choral repertoire in a small ensemble context. As with Concert Choir, students will be required to attend any and all scheduled extra-curricular rehearsals and performances as part of the course expectations. Please contact the choir teacher if you are interested in this course. This is an auditioned ensemble.
MUSIC 10/11/12: GUITAR (Acoustic)
Students will learn basic chord patterns in folk, pop and rock styles, rudimentary music theory, note-reading, tablature, rhythmic skills, basic finger-picking patterns, various left-hand techniques, and some forms of melodic/harmonic styles of guitar playing. The emphasis in the course is on ensemble playing, though there will be opportunities to prepare individual pieces. Guitars will not be provided for classroom use. No previous musical experience is necessary.
MUSIC 11/12: COMPOSITION & TECHNOLOGY
This course is a unique music composition class at Alpha, with a focus on traditional methods of composition, as well as the use of technology. This course is intended for students who have a background in the music program or have taken private music lessons outside of school. Students will learn to explore and arrange sound to form compositions for both live instruments and computer generated sounds. Programs in the music lab include Cubase, Sibelius, and Band in a Box, used with synthesizer workstations. Students will also learn to create recordings of their performances and compositions. Music written by students will be performed for the class or in the program’s Fall and Spring concerts. Students who enjoy a challenge, a sense of accomplishment, and are self-motivated will find this course fun and rewarding.
APPLICATIONS OF LEADERSHIP 11/12: MUSIC
This course is for the mature, dedicated music student who wish to expand their own leadership skills while working with younger musicians to improve their instrumental, vocal, and music composition abilities. Students are encouraged to consult with their music teacher before selecting this course.