General music in seventh grade is an introductory course to more formal styles of music. The elements of music (melody, harmony, tone color, rhythm, form, and texture) are studied through singing, playing, writing, listening, and composing. Musical theater may be introduced through a study of one musical. Musical instruments may be explored through listening, lecture, playing, and hands on assembly.
Recommended

Emphasis for eighth grade music is on studying the main periods of music history: Medieval and Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Twentieth Century. The focus includes American music and composers from various periods. It also includes the history of the American Musical and opera. A major objective will be to guide students to learn how to listen to music for life-long appreciation. A variety of musical styles will be presented through various listening exercises so students will become aware of the vast amount of music that is available.
Recommended

This course is designed to allow students to take a look at music and how it is applied to our lives. We will discuss the role which music plays in our lives and demonstrate its importance in our world today. The overall goals of the course are for students to respond emotionally and intelligently to a wide range of music from many styles and cultures, to understand the many uses of music in our lives, to acquire a general idea of their own musical heritage and why music is an essential element of all human cultures.
Elective Credit: 1.0

Theater is an introductory course which will include some history (as it relates to character development), vocal production, role playing, learning to develop a character, stage direction terminology, theater vocabulary, contrasting performance styles for musicals and drama or comedy. The technical aspects of sound, lighting, and set design may be included.
Elective Credit: 1.0

Chorus is a performance ensemble open to all students in grades 7-12. (From this ensemble, select groups are organized and many opportunities for musical growth arise.) Two concerts a year may be prepared and performed. Attendance at all concerts is mandatory. Students participating in chorus come to understand and are able to perform music in a variety of vocal styles from various periods of music history. Selections may be sung in a wide variety of languages.
Elective Credit: 0.5 (for grades 9-12)

Band is a performance ensemble for grades 7-12. Music is learned for usually two concerts a year. A variety of other opportunities for solo and ensemble playing is also provided through the band program. In addition to the learning that takes place through note reading drills, technical skill studies, and music interpretation; students learn to set goals and meet them, to work as part of a team, to be responsible for the instrument care, attend lessons, and practice.
Elective Credit: 0.5 (for grades 9-12)