Advanced Choir
The course intends to familiarize the student with a broad range of
choral literature and to develop his or her voice to its full potential.
The student will learn the proper way to produce a vocal sound that
is both properly supported and pleasing to the ear. Many young students
have the incentive, but lack the conceptual knowledge or the "know
how" to produce a healthy tone. That will be our first and foremost
goal.
Next, the students will learn a number of skills that include, but
are not limited to, the following:
• Students will gain substantial performance experience.
• Students will have the dramatic and physical tools necessary to succeed
as a performing artist as well as skills that will help enhance their
overall grace and comfort on the stage.
• Students will develop essential ensemble skills.
• Students will learn music theory skills.
• Students will acquire a keen understanding of and the ability to apply
proper and healthy vocal technique.
• Students will practice advanced sight-singing skills.
• Students will explore music history. Students will learn about the
historical context and significance of the music they perform.
The Advanced Choir is a performance intensive class and participates
in several concerts, festivals, and private functions throughout the
year. The student is obligated to several activities, performances,
and possible extra rehearsals outside on regular class time.
Chamber Groups
Through vocal chamber repertoire (e.g. solos, duets, etc), singers will
have the opportunity to develop their individual skills as performing
artists. Students will collaborate with fellow singers and instrumentalists
to perform music at the highest possible level. Performance opportunities
will be available at various times throughout the year.
All students will have a regular program of music theory, ear training,
composition, and music history. These classes will be on Tuesday and
Thursday.
Theory
Students will learn the basic rudimentary structure of Western tonal
music. Topics will include intervals, chords, melody, form, and harmony.
Students will learn by completing written exercises and analyzing existing
music. The basic principles of theory will also be used as a platform
for composition instruction. Students will use their knowledge of theory
to build creative works.
Music History
Students will be exposed to a broad range of musical history. Starting
with the basic building blocks of Western classical music, students
will listen to and learn about the rich history behind the music they
perform. The course will lead up to the music of the present century
and will include jazz, rock, blues, pop, and more, in addition to classical
music. Different music from around the world will also be heard and
discussed.
Ear training/Musicianship
Students will learn to recognize pitch and rhythm by ear. They will
learn to take dictation (notate music heard onto paper by ear), recognize
chords, and identify intervals. Musical samples will start simply and
progressive add more altered notes and difficult rhythms. Students will
also learn to sing and internally hear melodies on sight. General musicianship
will also be discussed, with topics including music notation, score
reading, knowledge of instrument transpositions, musicality, and more.
Extra Curricular Opportunities
• Musicals
• Festivals
• Chamber Music Concerts
• Community Performances
• Joint projects with other arts focus areas
State
Visual and Performing Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools
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