Music

Band 7/8

Prerequisites

Students must be able to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument and read music. 

Course Description

Band curriculum is designed to further develop student musicianship, in terms of playing technique, music reading, and teamwork in a large ensemble. In addition to having full band rehearsals every other day, students will receive small group lessons. These lessons take place during class and/or outside of class on a rotating schedule. Students are required to perform at concerts and community events, including the Hamden Memorial Day Parade.

Students are responsible for acquiring an instrument and must have it during the first week of school. A limited number of school instruments are available for rental for those who qualify.

 

 Orchestra 7/8

Prerequisites

Students must be able to play a string instrument and read music. Students must be assessed/approved by the middle school music teachers.

Course Description

Orchestra curriculum is designed to further develop student musicianship, in terms of playing technique, music reading, and teamwork in a large ensemble. In addition to having full orchestra rehearsals every other day, students will receive small group lessons. These lessons take place during class and/or outside of class on a rotating schedule. Students are required to perform at concerts and community events.

Students are responsible for acquiring an instrument and must have it during the first week of school. A limited number of school instruments are available for rental for those who qualify.

 

Instrumental Workshops 7

 Prerequisites

       None

Course Description

Instrumental Workshop curriculum is designed for students who are interested in improving their music reading skills and playing technique. The classes are also open to beginners interested in learning to play an instrument. It is an accelerated program in which students complete Standard of Excellence: Book 1/String Basics: Book 1 during one school year. This class consists of small group lessons every other day of school and students will have daily assignments for at-home practice.

Students are responsible for acquiring an instrument and further guidance on how to obtain an instrument will be given. A limited number of school instruments are available for rental for those who qualify.

Chorus 7/8

 Prerequisites

Students must be able match pitch and sing with a clear tone. Students must be assessed/approved by the middle school music teacher.

Course Description

Chorus curriculum is designed to provide students the skills needed to enjoy a lifetime of music at any level. Every class, students will practice good vocal technique and study how to read and write music in addition to developing the ensemble skills necessary for singing in a chorus. 

Students are required to perform at two concerts with the whole chorus.  They also may be asked to sing in small groups in class to work on specific techniques. Interested students will have opportunities to perform alone and also with an auditioned chorus in concerts outside of school. Students may be expected to attend small-group lessons outside of class on a rotating schedule.

Exploratory Music 7

Prerequisites

None

 Course Description

The Exploratory Music curriculum gives students the opportunity to explore the basics of playing piano, guitar, making music using computers, and world percussion. Student select 2 of the 3 semester course options for this year-long course, choosing between piano/ guitar, music technology, and world drumming.