Fine Arts » Music

Music

Beginning Band
In sixth grade, the student has the opportunity to sample a variety of musical instruments and concentrate on one for a semester. In this class, many students discover their talents in music and begin a life-long love of playing an instrument. The group performs in a concert at semester's end with other performing music ensembles.

Middle School Band
This ensemble is comprised of seventh and eighth grade students who excel in band and want to continue their musical development. They have the opportunity to participate in performances during the semester. The outstanding members of this group also perform in the DC Pep Band at varsity football games during the fall semester. Students in this group, if interested, have the opportunity to play with the Dynamic DC Drum Line.

Jazz Band
Prior experience is helpful. Auditions are held each spring for the upcoming school year. Private instrumental instruction is strongly encouraged. In the fall, a portion of the semester will be spent playing in the DC Pep Band at the varsity football games on Friday nights. In addition to the games, the band performs at pep rallies, parades and other venues. The fall semester concludes with a performance at the Christmas Concert. In the spring, Jazz Band students have the opportunity to continue their instrumental development at the most advanced levels by participating in the TAPPS Solo and Ensemble contests as well as performing in Jazz Festivals in Texas and a performance at Walt Disney World.

Choir
Middle School Choir performs at the Fall Choral Program, Grandparents’ Day, the Christmas Choral Program, Christmas Performance at Northpark Center and the Spring Choral Concert. Students participate in Talent Days multiple times each semester. These are days set aside to feature and develop individual and ensemble performance skills. Music, drama, dance, and acting are all part of this day.

High School Music Band
Prior experience is helpful. Auditions are held each spring for the upcoming school year. Private instrumental lessons are encouraged. In the fall, the band will serve as a spirit group for and supporter of the DC varsity football team. It will provide members with the opportunity to develop their instrumental abilities through performance at football games. In addition the band will perform at pep rallies, parades, and other appropriate venues, such as the annual Winter Concert. In the Spring, the Jazz Band will allow students the opportunity to continue their instrumental development at the most advanced levels. Performances will be given periodically throughout the year, such as the annual Spring Concert, the Sandy Lake Festival, and at TPSMEA and invitational events.

A Cappella Choir
Previous vocal experience is helpful. Auditions will beheld in the spring for the upcoming school year. This vocal group provides an opportunity for students to develop an appreciation of music while growing in their developing vocal skills. Many styles of music are studied and sung. This group performs several times a year and participates in the TAPPS Vocal contests in the solo and ensemble categories.

Piano Lab
Prior piano study is not required. Students will learn the fundamentals of piano playing. They will gain a working knowledge of basic music theory, proper piano technique, music reading skills, playing by ear. Expressive, musical interpretation of the music is emphasized. There is a recording project near the end of the spring semester.

Music Technology
This course is an introductory course in music technology, using GarageBand on the iPad and desktop applications. Students create several digital music projects throughout the year. No musical background is required, but it is helpful.