WHAT THE CLASSES WILL LOOK LIKE AND WHY: Music Appreciation Course #6599-6600 One semester = 0.5 credit This course offers an exciting survey of the traditions of music from Medieval music to Twenty-first Century Pop. Other aspects of music to be studied will cover: the art of listening, the fundamental elements of music, world music, musical instruments, and the future of music. Understanding why we connect with certain music and how it influences our emotions is incredibly important. My goal is to help you not only appreciate the music you love but also express why it resonates with you. I want to ensure that when you discuss music with others, you can confidently articulate how and why it makes you feel a certain way.
Digital Music Course #6622 One semester = 0.5 credit This class is an introduction to digital recording concepts. We will cover the basics of sound adjusting, acoustics, frequency measurement, digital file management and DAW workstation basics. Through this course we will also cover general music theory and composition. My hope is that you’ll take the concepts we explore in class and apply them beyond the classroom—bringing music into your home and creating sounds that bring you genuine joy.
Symphonic Orchestra Course #6681-6881 Full year = 1 credit (repeatable) Honors credit available for students who complete additional requirements Students will perform a variety of large ensemble orchestral literature of diverse genres and instrumentation. Students will also be expected to prepare solo études, orchestral excerpts, and to study music history components of music literature from varied time periods. Students will be required to perform in concerts during and/or after school wearing the ensemble’s designated attire. Events such as honor ensembles, Solo & Ensemble Festival, and All-State Band and Orchestra may be required per teacher’s directive. While this class may seem like a traditional band or strings course, its purpose is to help you become the best musician you can be. If you’re aiming for a music scholarship, colleges care about how well you play—not how well you march. Marching band demands countless hours outside in Reno’s unpredictable weather, strains your embouchure, and has you repeating the same three songs for months—all while requiring a significant financial investment in props. That’s not the path to true musical excellence. Instead, we’ll focus on developing your skills through meaningful collaboration, playing the right music to showcase your talent, and most importantly, having fun along the way.
Jazz Band Course Course #6707-6708 (May be required to enroll in Symphonic Orchestra) Full year = 1 credit (repeatable) This group is for students who wish to further their musical knowledge and skill through the study of Jazz. In time, membership in this ensemble may be by audition. Jazz music introduces students to a wide range of advanced musicianship skills, making it an incredible learning experience. If you play saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or are part of the rhythm section, this class is for you! We’re also offering a fantastic opportunity—a dual-credit college course called Survey of Jazz, available to our jazz musicians in the spring semester. This is an exciting chance to deepen your understanding of jazz while earning college credit!
Chorale Course Course # 6813-6814 Full year = 1 credit (repeatable) This course is open to beginning choir/general music students interested in learning to sing, read music, and explore musical concepts through traditional, jazz, and rock styles. Students may be required to participate in co-curricular rehearsals and performances beyond the school day to receive class credit. In today’s music industry, the ability to accompany yourself is essential for landing gigs. That’s why every singer in this class will learn to play an instrument—one that will be provided during class. In addition to exploring traditional and jazz styles, we’ll form rock groups and bring live performances to the community. Don’t underestimate your potential as both a solo artist and musician! Instruments you’ll have the opportunity to learn include piano, drums, bass, guitar, and ukulele. Get ready to expand your skills and take the stage!
I truly hope you’ll be part of this inaugural music family, where we’ll build a culture of respect, creativity, and passion for music. Since this is our first year—and many didn’t even know music would be an option—you can be sure of one thing: no matter the size of our ensembles, you will receive my full attention and dedication. Together, we’ll lay the foundation for something incredible!