Music Courses

RCS offers a wide variety of music courses.  Performance ensembles get the most public attention however, we also offer electives in Music Theory, General Music and Music Survey.  Descriptions are below.

The links to the left coordinate with the courses offered this semester.

MUSIC

Music is an integral part of human existence.  Participating, studying and practicing the many aspects of music enable one to enjoy life more fully.

Concert Band  (1 credit) – meets everyday, whole year

Concert Band is open to students in grades 9-12. The concert band plays standard band works.  These works include original works for band plus transcriptions and arrangements of music for band.  A full credit is earned for a school year of performance with the band.  The Concert Band presents concerts and assembly programs during the school year and marches on Memorial Day.  Each student receives group lessons, which are offered for all band students.

Concert Choir  (1 credit) – meets everyday, whole year

Students will increase their enjoyment through active participation in our high school performing ensemble.  In addition, they will become acquainted with a wide variety of music literatures representing all styles and periods.  Students will learn to read music, perform in clinics and concerts; they will learn to perform using all elements of music such as dynamics and articulation

Music Theory I*  (1/2 credit) – meets everyday, half year

The basic rules and principles involved in the language of music are studied in this half year course.  The ability to analyze aurally and visually is developed.

Music Theory II*  (1/2 credit) – meets everyday, half year

This half year course focuses on investigation of the organization of music from a harmonic aspect.  It continues the abilities to analyze music and begins the study of composition.  Music Theory I  is a prerequisite to this course.

Jazz Theory  (1/2 credit) – independent study

This is an independent study that will teach students the musical elements of jazz.  Students will learn blues chords and scales; they will learn how to improvise.  Students will get acquainted with the history of blues and jazz including styles, composers and performers. A prerequisite of Music Theory I & II or Jazz Ensemble is necessary to take this independent study.

Music History I*  (1/2 credit) – meets everyday, half year

This half year course will cover the timeline of music from Gregorian Chant and the earliest record of written music to the end of the Classical Period.  Students will learn of the characteristics of each musical style we study as well as composers and events in history from each time period.

Music History II*  (1/2 credit) – meets everyday, half year

This half year course will cover the timeline of music from the end of the Classical Period to Contemporary Artists.  Students will learn of the characteristics of each musical style we study as well as composers (including performers) and events in history from each time period.  Music History I  is a prerequisite to this course.

*Music History I & II will be taught on opposite years from Music Theory I & II.

Applied Music  (1/2 credit) – independent study

Students may earn one half credit per year for study with approved teachers outside of school.  Records must be kept of lessons attended, practice time and method books; quarterly grades are issued.  Required forms and permission must be obtained from the Guidance Office.  This is an S or U course.  It does not affect class rank.

Music Survey  (1/2 credit) – meets everyday, half year

This is a half-year course offered for non-music/art students towards the one unit requirement needed for the Arts.  Many of the traditional elements of music are emphasized; listening and analyzing various musical eras and styles.  The entire musical timeline from chant to rock n’ roll will be covered.

Musicals: Past and Present  (1/2 credit) – meets everyday, half year

This half year course will cover the history of American musical theater; from Rodgers & Hammerstein and Lerner & Loewe to Andrew Lloyd Webber and Leonard Bernstein.  Traditional musicals like Oklahoma and My Fair Lady added song and dance to a feel-good love story.  More contemporary musicals such as West Side Story and A Chorus Line have taken on topics such as racism and sexuality. 

Music Technology  (1/2 credit) – meets everyday, half year

Music Technology is open to students grades 7-12 (Jr. High – who are already enrolled in General Music, Chorus or Band & Sr. High – any student).  Though the use of iPods, Garage Band software, Prodikeys, students will be exploring, developing and creating music.  No prior knowledge or experience is required as the course teaches from a beginner’s level.

Men’s Ensemble  (1/2 credit) – meets every other day, whole year

Students will earn a half credit in this year long course that meets every other day.  The ensemble will perform at least twice through the school year.  Aside from participation and performance, students will learn of male vocalists from a variety of musical styles.

Ladies Ensemble  (1/2 credit) – meets every other day, whole year

Students will earn a half credit in this year long course that meets every other day.  The ensemble will perform at least twice through the school year.  Aside from participation and performance, students will learn of female vocalists from a variety of musical styles.

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