AP MUSIC THEORY
In addition to all our performing
ensembles, the Music Department offers several academic classes. AP Music Theory will be offered for the first year in 2006-2007. This course is designed for students considering a major or minor in music at the college level. Course content includes the study of: music theory, harmony, composition, the evolution of Western "art" music, and music literature. Students will learn the skills necessary to pass typical entrance exams given by college music programs. Course activities will include listening to music, analyzing scores, composing and performing music and practicing music dictation. The Advanced Placement Theory exam will be offered as an option for possible college credit. Students must be able to read music. Students considering a major or minor in music are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to take this course.
This course will be offered every year.
VOCAL MUSIC PERFORMING ENSEMBLES
The basic curriculum for all vocal
performing ensembles is quite similar. Students are taught
to read music and "sight sing." Proper singing
technique is also taught to encourage healthy tone production and
good intonation. A wide variety of music is covered during the
year. Additionally, all music ensembles work toward building a group dynamic and learning
to work well as a unit. All choirs perform two to six
times each year depending upon the level.
- TREBLE CHOIR is intended for Freshman and Sophomore girls of
all
musical levels.
CHORALE is intended for Freshman and Sophomore boys. Female
upperclassmen are assigned by the director to balance the number of boys.
WOMEN'S VARSITY CHOIR is intended for Sophomore through Senior women with some musical experience. This is an advanced ensemble performing more difficult music at four concerts during the year.
A CAPPELLA CHOIR enrollment is determined by audition. Usually restricted to Juniors and Seniors (male or female), A Cappella is also an advanced choir for students with previous choral experience. A Cappella performs at five concerts and several assemblies each year.
JAZZ ENSEMBLES rehearse before school and range in size from five to sixteen. These ensembles feature a mix of jazz, broadway, pop, barbershop and whatever the students or director chooses. As of 2000, seven different groups have been formed, but that number is flexible. All jazz ensembles perform at the Vocal Jazz Showcase, and several are selected to perform at various concerts during the year.
For more information, call the OPRFHS Music Department at
708.434.3100
