8th Grade Curriculum
General Music
This course is designed to develop the artistic, emotional and intellectual talents of the child. Units are based on the study of the history of music and changes in society from the Middle Ages through the Baroque Period: German Composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart; American Composers George Gershwin, Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein and their influence on the development and recognition of American music; and developing listening skills with the study of Programmatic Music.
8th Grade Electives
Chorus
This full year course is open to all eighth grade students interested in singing. The student will develop a repertoire of vocal music in a variety of styles and languages, develop rehearsal and vocal techniques, be introduced to beginning sight singing, and will present a number of public performances. No audition is necessary; however, a recommendation from the seventh grade Choral Director may be used. Students will be eligible to audition for the District X Songfest. Opportunities will also be given for extra-curricular activities such as small ensembles, show choir and musical productions. These groups will be auditioned.
Concert Band
Membership in the eighth grade Concert Band is obtained through audition and/or recommendation of the Band Director. As a member of the Concert Band, each student will receive one group lesson, and attend three ensemble rehearsals during the six-day cycle. There will be a musical performance evaluation for all Concert Band members at the end of each semester. Prerequisite: three years ensemble experience or the equivalent and recommendation of the Band Director.
Orchestra
Membership in the eighth grade Orchestra will be determined by audition and/or recommendation of the Orchestra Directors. As a member of the Orchestra, each student will receive one lesson, and attend three ensemble rehearsals during the six-day cycle. There will be a musical performance evaluation for all Orchestra members at the end of each marking period. Prerequisite: Three years ensemble experience or the equivalent and recommendation of the Orchestra Director.
9th Grade Electives
Concert Band
Membership in Concert Band 1 is obtained through audition by interested musicians having fifth through ninth grade band experience, or the equivalent, as a prerequisite. In addition, membership in Concert Band 1 is maintained by recommendation of the band director(s), based on the level of performance of required fundamentals and music.
Concert Choir
Concert Choir will be a multi-graded choral experience. Students should have a minimum of two years of choral ensemble experience to participate in this choir. A variety of music will be learned along with techniques of vocal production and music reading. This ensemble will present two to three concerts during the year. There will be additional opportunities during the year for various community performances and small ensemble experiences. Advanced singers are also eligible for participation in district, regional and state festivals as well as the school musical. The Chorale and Show Choir also provide extra-curricular opportunities and include members who are selected by auditions held in the spring of every year. Students should see the choir director for more information.
Orchestra
Membership in Orchestra 1 is obtained through audition by interested musicians having fifth through ninth grade orchestra experience, or the equivalent, as a prerequisite. In addition, membership in Orchestra 1 is maintained by recommendation of the orchestra director, based on the level of performance of required fundamentals and music.