Music

Symphonic Band

The Symphonic Band is an intermediate/advanced level group and is for those 7th and 8th grade students who have mastered their first method book or beyond. Students enrolled in this class have either been auditioned or met the requirements from previous enrollment based on teacher recommendation. This ensemble travels for local music festivals and receives consistent high marks in festival performance, having received Unanimous Superior and Excellent ratings the past two years. The goal of this class is high school preparation, honing ensemble performance skills, and continued development of individual instrumental technique and musical knowledge. The ensemble performs in two concerts a year in addition to performing at many school functions, including: Spirit Rallies, Elementary Visits, School Carnival, and more. Students are expected to engage in outreach and mentorship with our feeder elementary bands and community. Students in this ensemble may also wish to audition for California All-State and regional Honor groups.

Concert Band

The Concert Band is a beginning/intermediate level group, though no prior experience is necessary. New members join this band on a yearly basis with recent or no experience and leave seasoned and ready for the more advanced Symphonic Band. Membership is for 7th and 8th graders with a strong interest in learning a wind instrument, growing their performance skills, and learning more about music through the band curriculum. Students learn how to read music, play an instrument to an intermediate level, and perform in several concerts throughout the year. Students gain the performing ability necessary to play music at a level difficult enough for preparation and performance in school concerts and to audition into the Symphonic Band. The ensemble performs in our two big concerts, the big Elementary Concert in May, and other special events throughout the year.

Sound, Beat, and Synthesis 1 - Intro to Music & Technology

This is a semester-long, technology based music class with an emphasis in PBL and cross-curricular learning segments. Students learn the foundations of music and electronic music production in a creative and fun group environment, including: beginning music literacy skills, basic piano knowledge, and an introduction to GarageBand. No music experience necessary.


Sound, Beat, and Synthesis 2 - Recording and Production

Stepping off where SBS 1 leaves off, students learn the foundations of recording sound and dive deeper into projects. While basic skills are revisited, this class aims to push student skills towards personal expression. Music experience is suggested. This is a semester-long, technology based music class with an emphasis in PBL and individual creative projects using GarageBand, Logic Pro X, iMovie, and more.