MUSIC DEPARTMENT

Grade 9 Music Courses

Concert Choir Music Theory and Ear Training Symphony Band
   

Grade 10, 11, & 12 Music Courses

Concert Choir Music Theory and Ear Training Honors Band
Symphony Band
 

The mission of Ludlow High School's music department is to provide experiences in music that teach the fundamental elements of performance and analytical listening skills.

CONCERT CHOIR

COURSE NUMBER:82933

Prerequisites: NONE

Open to: All students

FULL YEAR
5 COURSE CREDITS

This course requires students to actively participate in performing choral literature from a variety of styles and languages, in multiple parts (ie. Soprano, Tenor, etc.). Voice parts will be assigned by the director, based on the student’s vocal classification and development, to assure good choral balance. Participation at choral performances is mandatory. Private and small group lessons, at least once a week, are strongly recommended, and will focus on the beginning and ongoing process of learning to sing music at sight, fostering proper vocal technique, and developing basic keyboarding skills. Private lessons will be scheduled at the beginning of the school year based on schedule availability.

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MUSIC THEORY AND EAR TRAINING

COURSE NUMBER: 81142

Prerequisites: Recommended Choral or Instrumental Experience

Open to: Grades 9 - 12 students

FULL YEAR
5 COURSE CREDITS

Music theory and ear training is recommended for those students who have had some vocal or instrumental experience and wish to learn about the technical aspects of reading and writing music. By learning the rules and principles of music through an applied approach to music theory, students will develop an understanding of music through listening and singing, with a goal of being able to create basic music compositions using standard music notation. Ear training will focus on developing students’ ability to write down music they hear and sing, including listening for and identifying intervals, motives and rhythmic patterns. Scale construction, chords, and harmonization will also be included.

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SYMPHONY BAND

COURSE NUMBER: 81333

Prerequisites: NONE

Open to: All students

FULL YEAR
5 COURSE CREDITS

The primary goal of Symphony Band is artistic performance. Instruction in this ensemble is geared to developing those skills (tone quality, intonation, and interpretation) which will prepare the student to be a skilled musician and to appreciate music and musicians. All members of the Symphony Band are eligible to audition each year for the Western Massachusetts District Band and Orchestra and All-State Band and Orchestra.

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HONORS BAND

COURSE NUMBER: 81333H

Prerequisites: Band Teacher Recommends/Approves Honors Band Credit

Open to: All Band Members

FULL YEAR
5 COURSE CREDITS

Students cannot select this course. Instead, students who meet the criteria stated below will be awarded honors band credit on their transcript. Students must meet the following criteria to obtain Honors Credit: be a member of the Symphony Band, have taken private lessons for at least 2 years, attended two of the following: Quabbin Festival, UMass Honors Band, District Auditions, or All State auditions. Students must also be able to sight read a solo at a level 3, and pass a basic theory test.

 

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