• MUSIC

    874   CHORALE (Mixed Ensemble)

    Grades 9-12

    All year, 3 Credits

    Recommended Prerequisite: Previous music experience 

     

    This class is a mixed ensemble of balanced parts.  There will be at least one performance per trimester and usually there are two or more. Activities will include concerts, convocations, contests and perhaps tours.  Special apparel will be determined as performances require. Instruction and assessment will include group singing, individual singing and written work. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is the backbone of achievement in a performance group such as this one. Written explanation of reason for absence for any of the three participation areas is required and will be assessed as excused or unexcused.  Excused lack of participation will be considered for make up points.  Unexcused explanations will not be considered for make up points. Points earned to establish a grade for this class is based on three components: Participation (daily, after school and concerts), Performance Level(as assessed by playing/singing tests and teacher observation), and Written Assignments.  In addition to textbook fees, students will be asked to purchase concert attire and participate in mandatory fundraising activities.

     

    877 Beginning Piano 1 

    Grades 9-12

    One Trimester, 1 Credit

     

    The course is designed to introduce students to foundational piano technique and musical skills by practicing a variety of repertoire, by gaining a working knowledge of basic music theory, and by applying these skills to composition. Those who participate will learn how to read, compose music, and perform music on the piano with both hands.

    878   MUSIC THEORY 

    Grades 10-12

    One Trimester, 1 Credit

     

    A 1 trimester introductory study of the structure of music.Students will develop ear training and dictation skills, compose works that illustrate mastered concepts, understand harmonic structures, and receive detailed instruction in other basic elements of music. and analysis, understand modes and scales  Basic knowledge of music reading is helpful but not required before enrollment. This course is designed for the more serious-minded student or the college-bound student. The course will utilize computers for music notation and analysis. 

     

    879 Advanced Piano 

    Grades 9-12

    One Trimester, 1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Beginning Piano 1 or approval from instructor of prior experience demonstrated.

     

    The course is designed to introduce students to foundational piano technique and musical skills by practicing a variety of repertoire, by gaining a working knowledge of basic music theory. Those who participate will work to acquire fluency in piano technique and basic musicianship.




    884   SYMPHONIC BAND 

    Grades 9-12

    Two Trimesters (1st and 2nd), 2 Credits

    Prerequisite: Membership is by approval of the middle school or high school director(s) and successful participation in their respective middle school or high school band during the current year or audition.

     

    The Symphonic Band is the concert band at BNL. The Symphonic Band performs music of a medium to medium-advanced level incorporating a wide range of styles. Performances generally include 2 to 3 formal concerts each year, Performances will include concerts and, on occasion ISSMA and IMEA Organizational Festivals or festival tours. Instruction and assessment will include group playing, individual playing and written work. Individual practice outside of class is expected.  Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is necessary for the highest achievement in a performance group such as this one. In addition to textbook fees, students will be asked to purchase concert attire. Please consult the Music Department Handbook for additional information.  

     

    891   MARCHING BAND

    Grades 9-12

    Seasonal (1st Trimester), 1 Fine Arts Credit or 1 PE Credit

    Prerequisite: Membership is open to all band students in grades 9-12 who have successfully participated in their respective high school or middle school band.  Prior participation in marching band is not required.

     

    The Marching Band is the most visible part of the band program at BNL due to the number and nature of their performances.  The Marching Band performs music of many styles and visual  designs that are utilized by the contemporary competitive marching band. Since this is a co-curricular class, grades are issued and 1 credit is earned for participation.  Membership by all band students is encouraged and recommended.  All students who choose to play in the marching band are expected to participate in the summer band program leading up to the course.  Performances include 4-5 home football games, 5-6 marching band contest weekends, 2-3 local parades or community functions and, upon occasion, regional or national parades, festivals, or competitions.  Instruction and assessment will include group playing, individual playing and written work.  Individual practice outside of class is expected. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is necessary for the highest achievement in a performance group such as this one.  Please consult the Music Department Handbook for additional information.



    894   ORCHESTRA

    Grades 9-12

    All year, 3 Credits

    Prerequisite: Membership is by approval of the middle school or high school director(s) and successful participation in their respective middle school or high school orchestra during the current year or audition. Students who have not participated in Orchestra must audition and if necessary make arrangements to take private instruction to meet the level of proficiency needed for Symphony Orchestra.


    Students are provided with a balanced study of music through the string and full orchestra which develops skills in the psychomotor, cognitive, and affective domains. Ensemble and solo activities are designed to develop and refine elements of musicianship including tone production, technical skills, intonation, music reading, listening skills, studying historically significant styles of orchestral literature, and integration of other applicable disciplines. Students develop the ability to understand and convey the composer’s intent in performance of music. A limited number of public performances will serve as a culmination of rehearsal and musical goals. Students are required to participate in performance opportunities outside the school day that support and enhance learning in the classroom. In addition to textbook fees, students will be asked to purchase concert attire. Please consult the Music Department Handbook for additional information.