BAND

 

The Hillhouse Music Program includes courses in introductory instrumental techniques, marching bank, and concert band.  Students interested in learning to play a new instrument can begin with Beginning Bank classes at Hillhouse.  We encourage students who have prior musical experience to join the Hillhouse Band.

Assessment Methods:  Unless specified differently, music assessment methods will be based on oral and performing participation, 70% test and quizzes 30%. After-School rehearsals are a vital part of the overall development of the student participant.  Therefore, attendance after-school are necessary and mandatory with each of the courses below, and are part of the students grade.

Performances include sporting events, school assemblies, competitions, parades, and concerts.  The school year will culminate with a summer performance trip which could include a Disney World performance, or performances and competitions in other states.

                                                                                                                                   

Beginning Band                                        Grade(s) 9, 10, 11                              1 Credit

Level:  3                                          Length of Course:  Full year

Description:  This course will introduce students with no previous music experience to instrumental music.  The Wind Instrument (Woodwind & Brass) will be the primary focus of this class.  Students will learn basic music theory, instrumental care and maintenance, and playing and techniques.  Beginning students are integrated into the Marching and Concert Bands as they become musically proficient.

                                                                                                                                   

Intermediate Band                                 Grade(s) 9, 10, 11, 12                         1 Credit

Level:  2                                           Length of Course:  Full Year

Description:  This course is designed for those students with basic instrumental music (Woodwind & Brass) skills and knowledge.  Students in the Intermediate Band will participate in the Marching and Concert Band.  These students will learn expanded music theory including an introduction to improvisation.  Entry into this class is gained by audition or successful completion of the Beginning Band course.

                                                                                                                                   

Advance Band                                        Grade(s) 9, 10, 11, 12                         1 Credit

Level:  1                                            Length of Course:  Full Year

Description:  This course is designed for students with multiple years of instrumental (Woodwind & Brass) musical experience.  Students will expand their knowledge of music theory and performance techniques.  Musical improvisation and history will be the primary focus of this course.  Students will be exposed to music composition and arranging.  Students in the Advance Band will participate in the Marching and Concert Band.  Entry into this class is gained by audition or successful completion of the Intermediate Band course.

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Percussions                                              Grade(s) 9, 10, 11, 12                           1 Credit

Level:  2                                              Length of Course:  Full Year

Description:  This course is opened to all students wishing to learn about percussion.  Many instruments in the percussions family will be explored, both tonal and atonal.  Basic music theory will be the primary focus.  Students will also receive a thorough introduction of, and training in rudimental drumming.  Students in the Percussions will participate in the Marching and Concert Band.