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Franklin High School > FHS 08/09 Course Listings

Music Courses

MUSIC PROGRAM


The music curriculum is designed to provide all students with knowledge and skills in music. Music courses also give students the tools for creating, communicating, and making informed and critical choices about aesthetic values in music. Student commitment and the development of good practice habits are integral qualities of the music program.

Courses Offered:

  • Chorus 814 Honors
  • Chorus 802 College Preparatory
  • Chamber Choir 817 Honors
  • Concert Band 800 Honors  (See Separate Course Descriptions for Freshman)
  • Concert Band 801 College Preparatory  (See Separate Course Descriptions for Freshman)
  • Wind Ensemble 820 Honors
  • Jazz Ensemble I 816 Honors
  • Jazz Ensemble II 808 College Preparatory
  • String Orchestra 815 Honors
  • String Orchestra 809 College Preparatory
  • Full Orchestra 818/812 Honors/College Preparatory
  • Music Theory AP 888 Advanced Placement
  • Music Theory I 848 College Preparatory
  • Jazz Improvisation 807 College Preparatory
  • Music Theater Workshop 851 College Preparatory
  • American Popular Music and Society 852 College Preparatory
  • Recording Techniques I 790 College Preparatory
  • Recording Techniques II  791 College Preparatory
  • Freshman Band Honors 787
  • Freshman Band College Preparatory 788

Chorus 814 Honors
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Chorus is open to all students in Grades 9-12. Students without prior musical training are encouraged to join. Chorus is a performance-oriented course in that additional rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course. Students will learn about how their voices function, proper vocal health practices as applied to both singing and speaking and how to use their voice through proper vocal technique using a variety of exercises and music that will span many different, styles, genres, time periods and languages.  Students will also learn musical skills Including basic theory, ear training and sight singing as well as look at the historical, political and social significance of the music studied In class. Team building and assertive leadership skills are also key concepts taught in this class. Students are assessed through performance as well as traditional and non-traditional assessments. Honors students will complete a musical project designed to advance the students musical knowledge outside of the school day and benefit the community either through community service in the arts or performance.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Chorus 802 College Preparatory
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Chorus is open to all students in Grades 9-12. Students without prior musical training are encouraged to join. Chorus is a performance-oriented course in that additional rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course Students will learn about how their voices function, proper vocal health practices as applied to both singing and speaking and how to use their voice through proper vocal technique using a variety of exercises and music that will span many different, styles, genres, time periods and languages.  Students will also learn musical skills Including basic theory, ear training and sight singing as well as look at the historical, political and social significance of the music studied in class. Team building and assertive leadership skills are also key concepts taught in this class. Students are assessed through performance as well as traditional and non-traditional assessments.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Chamber Choir 817 Honors
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 2.0 Credits
Chamber Choir is open to all students in Grades 9-12 by audition and meets 3-4 hours per week outside of the regular school day.  The Chamber Choir is a performance-oriented course in that rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course.  This course is an extension of the daytime choral program and focuses on advanced vocal practices and repertoire for smaller, technically proficient choral ensembles and singers. This group will study music covering many different, styles, genres, and languages including but not limited to vocal jazz and popular accapella.  Students must either be enrolled In Chorus during the school day or take private voice lessons to qualify to participate in this ensemble. Students will be assessed through performance as well as traditional and non-traditional assessments. Auditions take place in September.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Concert Band 800 Honors  (See Separate Course Descriptions for Freshman)
Grades 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The Concert Band (Honors) is open to all students in Grades 10-12 who play a wind or percussion instrument usable in a modern wind band. Students without prior training on one of these instruments may be admitted at the discretion of the director, based on the availability of private musical instruction. The Concert Band is a performance-oriented course in that additional rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course. Music of various time periods and styles is studied, and at times the ensemble may be broken into smaller groups based on the performing abilities and instrumentation of its members. Successful completion of this course requires personal practice outside of the school day. Students will also be assessed on basic elements of music theory and history as they relate to the music being performed. Students are required to complete a musical project each term. Students enrolled in Concert Band (Honors) are required to participate in the Pep Band.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Concert Band 801 College Preparatory  (See Separate Course Descriptions for Freshman)
Grades 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The Concert Band is open to all students in Grades 10-12 who play a wind or percussion instrument usable in a modern wind band. Students without prior training on one of these instruments may be admitted at the discretion of the director, based on the availability of private musical instruction. The Concert Band is a performance-oriented course in that additional rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course. Music of various time periods and styles is studied, and at times the ensemble may be broken into smaller groups based on the performing abilities and instrumentation of its members. Successful completion of this course requires personal practice outside of the school day. Students will also be assessed on basic elements of music theory and history as they relate to the music being performed. Students enrolled in the Concert Band are eligible to participate in the Pep Band.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Wind Ensemble 820 Honors
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The Wind Ensemble is open to students in grades 9-12 by audition/ recommendation. The wind ensemble is an advanced performing ensemble designed to challenge the most ambitious students. The Wind Ensemble is a performance-oriented course and additional rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course. Students study music of various time periods and styles and at times will be broken into chamber music ensembles based on the performing abilities and instrumentation of its members. Successful completion of the course requires daily personal practice and private instruction is expected. Students are required to complete a graded audition each term in which a student’s ability to perform scales, musical patterns and performance music will be assessed. Students in the Wind Ensemble are required to participate in the Pep Band.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Jazz Ensemble I 816 Honors
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester 2.0 Credits
The Jazz Ensemble I is open by audition to all students in Grades 9-12 who play an instrument usable in a modern Jazz Ensemble. The Jazz Ensemble rehearses approximately four to five hours per week outside of the school day and travels to festivals in and out of the state throughout the year. The Jazz Ensemble is a performance-oriented course in that rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course. Music is studied from various time periods and styles throughout the history of Jazz. Successful completion of this course requires individual practice outside of the school day. Auditions for the Jazz Ensemble are held in September. Rehearsals are held after school.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Jazz Ensemble II 808 College Preparatory
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Semester 1.0 Credit  
The Jazz Ensemble II is open by audition to all students in Grades 9-12 who play an instrument usable in a modern Jazz Ensemble. The Jazz Ensemble rehearses approximately three hours per week outside of the school day and travels to festivals in and out of the state throughout the Year. The Jazz Ensemble is a performance- oriented course in that rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course. Music is studied from various time periods and styles throughout the history of Jazz. Successful completion of this course requires individual practice outside of the school day. Auditions for the Jazz Ensemble are held in September. Rehearsals are held after school.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

String Orchestra 815 Honors
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
String Orchestra Honors is a course open to all students in Grades 9-12 who play a string instrument usable in a modern orchestra. Students with musical training on non-orchestral instruments, as well as untrained but interested students may be admitted at the discretion of the director based on the availability of private instruction time. Students meeting these criteria must take private lessons on their instrument. String Orchestra is a performance-oriented course, in that additional rehearsals and public performance are an integral part of the course. Music suited to full and chamber orchestra is studied from all musical time periods. The string orchestra can be divided into separate performing groups such as full orchestra, chamber orchestra, and small ensembles based on performing abilities or instrumentation of its members. Successful completion of this course will require personal practice outside of the school day. Basic elements of music theory and history will also be assessed as they relate to the music being performed. Honors students will be required to complete a musical project each term. These projects will consist of preparing audition pieces, performances of all 12 major scales with speed and accuracy, and an audition for Concert Hour.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

String Orchestra 809 College Preparatory
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
String Orchestra CP is a course open to all students in Grades 9-12 who play a string instrument usable in a modern orchestra. Students with musical training on non-orchestral instruments, as well as untrained but interested students may be admitted at the discretion of the director based on the availability of private instruction time. Students meeting these criteria must take private lessons on their instrument. String Orchestra is a performance-oriented course, in that additional rehearsals and public performance are an integral part of the course. Music suited to full and chamber orchestra is studied from all musical time periods. The string orchestra can be divided into separate performing groups such as full orchestra, chamber orchestra, and small ensembles based on performing abilities or instrumentation of its members. Successful completion of this course will require personal practice outside of the school day. Basic elements of music theory and history will also be assessed through class performance and tests as they relate to the music being performed.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Full Orchestra 818/812 Honors/College Preparatory
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Two Periods 1.0 Credit
Students will study and perform musical literature written for orchestra. This performance group is further designed to develop and enhance individual and ensemble skills. Students are required to attend and perform at all rehearsals and concerts. Rehearsals will be held before and after school. Enrollment is by audition and/or consent of the instructor. All students enrolled in String Orchestra are also enrolled in this course. Attendance at rehearsals and performances is mandatory.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Music Theory AP 888 Advanced Placement
Grades 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Music Theory AP is a year-long course open to all students in Grades 10-12. Students must have the permission of the instructor or department head in order to be eligible for this course. Students enrolling in this course should have substantial prior musical knowledge including reading fluency in one or more Clefs, knowledge of major and minor key signatures, and an understanding of rhythm and beat. The goal of this course is to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Exam in Music Theory. The course will cover intervals, triads, four part writing, analysis and ear training. Students will be assessed using homework, traditional tests and quizzes, projects, and performances on various instruments and voice.
Prerequisite:  A grade of 80% or higher in Introduction to Music Theory is a required prerequisite for students who do not participate in an FHS daytime performing ensemble.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1D, 3A, 3B, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1C, 2, 3C, 1E

Music Theory I 848 College Preparatory  
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
This course is an introduction to the principles of music theory. It includes the study and development of practical skills in reading, writing, listening, sight singing, musical signs and terms, intervals, triads, major and minor scales, key signatures, meter and rhythm. There is also an introduction to basic harmony.  A passing grade of 80% or higher in this class is a required prerequisite for students who do not participate in an FHS daytime performing ensemble who intend to enroll in Advanced Placement Music Theory. This course is also highly recommended for students in performing ensembles who intend to enroll in Advanced Placement Music Theory.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1D, 3A, 3B, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1C, 2, 3C, 1E

Jazz Improvisation 807 College Preparatory
Grades 11, 12
Semester 2.5 Credits
Jazz is considered by many to be the first art form developed by the United States to gain worldwide acclaim. One of the most unique, challenging and rewarding aspects of performing jazz is the freedom of the performer to make up the music as it is performed, commonly termed improvising. Students in Jazz Improvisation will learn basic techniques for approaching the various styles of jazz including blues, swing, and bebop. Students will learn the theory and history of jazz as it applies to performance practice. Students will be assessed through a variety of formats including written work, projects and performances. It is suggested that students be fluent in reading music on their primary instrument and that they have at least three years of playing experience on that instrument. No prior jazz experience is necessary and any instruments are welcome but must be supplied by the student.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Music Theater Workshop 851 College Preparatory
Grades 10,11,12
Semester 2.5 Credits
This course is a performance-based class for students interested in exploring and performing musical theater, operetta and operatic vocal literature. Through guided instruction, singers and pianists will collaborate to put together a program of musical scenes and songs that will be performed for elementary and middle school students and the Franklin community as their final project. Students will learn how the human voice functions, strategies for healthy vocal production, acting techniques and stage movement for singers. They also will learn about historical influences on musical theater and opera, role research, character development, and audition techniques. In addition to the final project, students will be assessed
through traditional and non-traditional methods including projects, singing quizzes, tests, journal writing, personal and group performance evaluations, and critical self-evaluations. Prerequisite: All students must complete one year of chorus or one full year of theater courses. Singers are expected to have a strong basic knowledge of their instrument upon entering this class and should be prepared to sing by themselves in front of their peers on a regular basis.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

American Popular Music and Society 852 College Preparatory
Grades 9,10,11,12
Semester 2.5 Credits
This course studies the historical influences and music theory of 20th Century American Popular Music. Students will learn and apply basic performance techniques on all instruments commonly used in this music, including guitar, piano, bass, and drums. The outcome for this course is a final project in which students will compose a popular song using the theoretical, historical, and applied instrumental knowledge learned throughout the course. These songs will be performed and recorded by students in the class. In addition to the final project, students will be assessed through traditional tests and quizzes and playing tests on each of the instruments studied. No prior performance experience on any of these instruments is expected or necessary.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1D, 3A, 3B, 3D, 5
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1C, 1E, 3C, 4A

Recording Techniques I 790 College Preparatory
Grade 10, 11, 12
Semester 2.5 Credits
Recording Techniques is a semester course open to all students. The course will explore the basic principles of recording, including acoustic properties, hardware specifications and the recording and editing process. The course will culminate in a group-recording project. Students are assessed through traditional tests, quizzes, and homework as well as group work and projects. Recording Techniques is offered both semesters and is required for Recording Techniques II.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 5
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1B, 1D, 1E, 2

Recording Techniques II  791 College Preparatory
Grade 10, 11, 12
Semester 2.5 Credits
The course will explore in-depth principles of recording including microphone specifications, acoustics, multi-track recording on digital workstations and computer software, expanded mixing ideas, and applying polishing effects in the mastering stage of recording.  Students will be required to complete individual and group recording projects, along with accumulating recording time on locations.  Students will be assessed through quizzes, tests, group work, and projects.  Recording Techniques II will be offered second semester. This class is open to all students who passed Recording Techniques I with a grade of  80% or better.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 5
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1B, 1D, 1E, 2

Freshman Band Honors 787
Grade 9
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The Freshman Band (Honors) is for all students in Grade 9 who play a wind or percussion instrument usable in a modern wind band. Students must have  prior training on one of these instruments, and middle school experience. The Freshman Band is a performance-oriented course in that additional rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course. Music of various time periods and styles is studied, and at times the ensemble may be broken into smaller groups based on the performing abilities and instrumentation of its members. Successful completion of this course requires personal practice outside of the school day. Students will be assessed on basic elements of music, basic concepts of playing their Instrument, and performing In at least four concerts per year. Students enrolled in Freshman Band (Honors) are required to participate in the Pep Band.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

Freshman Band College Preparatory 788
Grade 9
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The Freshman Band is open to all students in Grade 9 who play a wind or percussion instrument usable in a modern wind band. Students must have prior training on one of these instruments, and middle school experience. The Freshman Band is a performance-oriented course in that additional rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are an integral part of the course. Music of various time periods and styles is studied, and at times the ensemble may be broken into smaller groups based on the performing abilities and instrumentation of its members. Successful completion of this course requires personal practice outside of the school day. Students will also be assessed on basic elements of music basic concepts of playing their instrument, and performing in at least four concerts per year. Students enrolled in the Freshman Band are eligible to participate in the Pep Band.
This course supports the following Academic Expectation(s): 1B, 1C, 1D, 3C, 3D
This course assesses the following Academic Expectation(s): 1A, 1E, 2, 4A, 4B, 5

22452  
Updated: Mar 3, 2008  



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