Music

MU001  Introduction to Music (grade 9)                                Fall:  1 quarter:  2.5 units

This one-quarter course is required for all freshmen.  It includes a study of the fundamentals of music theory, an overview of music history and examines the role of music in our lives.

MU100  Chorale                      Fall or Spring:  1 semester:  2.5 units

This is a choir available to any interested freshman, sophomore, junior or senior.  The course is designed to introduce basic singing skills to beginners and advance the skills of experienced musicians.  Sight-singing, vocal development and musicianship are all integral to this course.  The Chorale performs in several public concerts (on and off campus) throughout the year and participates in IHSMA large group contest each May.

MU101  Symphonic Band                Fall and Spring:  2 semesters:  5 units

This is an elective opportunity for any student seeking to improve skills on a musical instrument.  Students participating in Symphonic Band will develop a documented practice routine.  Performances are scheduled throughout the year, including the Midwest Regional Mennonite Orchestra Festival hosted by three schools on a rotating basis.

MU102  Advanced Music                        Spring:  1 semester:  5 units

This is an elective course in music theory, music history, and basic conducting techniques.  Music theory will include a study of chord construction, learning to write and harmonize melodies, and the creation of original compositions.  Music history will be studied chronologically, and will emphasize a study of forms of music and the principle composers, together with analysis of and listening to representative musical examples.

MU200  Concert Choir                            Fall:  1 semester:  2.5 units

Concert Choir is open to juniors and seniors who have completed at least one semester of Chorale.  A principal goal is to improve singing within a choral setting.  Teamwork is an important emphasis as a means to achieving a healthy choral sound.                                                Pre-requisite:  minimum of 1 semester of Chorale

MU300  Touring Choir                Spring:  1 semester:  2.5 units

This is an ensemble of approximately 40 members, selected by audition in late November.  Membership in the choir reflects a commitment to excellence in the choral art.  Touring Choir performs a series of concerts in churches of the local area in the spring of the year, and participates in the MSEC Choral Festival.               Pre-requisite:  Concert Choir the previous semester