Music
(
modified from the Chesapeake Public Schools Secondary Student Guide)

Whether performed, perceived, or created, music possesses unique qualities that can promote a child’s affective and cognitive development. Understanding the need for musical experiences in education, the Chesapeake Public Schools provides a comprehensive music education program. Performance-based courses in band, chorus, and string orchestra are offered on the secondary level. Courses in music theory, beginning guitar, and music survey are offered in grades 9 – 12, based on student interest and enrollment. Band, chorus, and orchestra classes provide unique opportunities for student development in both curricular and co-curricular activities.

 
MUSIC
PERFORMANCE BASED CLASSES
NON-PERFORMANCE CLASSES

 

PERFORMANCE BASED CLASSES

 Band 9 (284)   Grade Level: 9  
Credit:
1 Unit
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Band 8 or an audition.

Course Description: Students continue to develop skills learned in the middle school band classes. More advanced technique and repertoire are emphasized and increased performance opportunities are offered.

 

Symphonic Band – Honors Credit (282H)
Grade Level:
11-12   Credit: 1 Unit
Prerequisite:
Audition, interview and passing grade on written eligibility test.

Course Description: Students use the skills learned in previous band classes in the execution of music at various levels of difficulty. This course is performance oriented. Because of the weighted credit received for this course, students are expected to fulfill additional requirements outside the regular class rehearsal.

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Orchestra (274)   Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 1 Unit
Prerequisite:
Audition

Course Description: Students use the skills learned in previous string classes in the execution of music at various levels of difficulty. This course is performance oriented and involves both small and large ensemble experiences.

 

Concert Orchestra (276) Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 1 Unit
Prerequisite:
Audition

Course Description: Students use skills learned in previous string classes in the execution of music at a higher level of difficulty. This course is performance oriented.

 


Mixed Chorus (294)   Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 1 Unit   
Prerequisite:
Audition

Course Description: Students participate in a performance-oriented ensemble in which a variety of musical styles is studied and performed, while musicianship and vocal techniques are reviewed and developed.

 

Choral Ensemble (296)   Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 1 Unit
Prerequisite:
Audition

Course Description: Students participate in a smaller, more select ensemble that studies and performs choral repertoire of a high level of difficulty with increased performance opportunities and requirements.

 

NON-PERFORMING CLASSES

Beginning Guitar (270)   Grade Level: 9-12   Credit: 1 Unit
Prerequisite:
None

Course Description: Students learn basic performance skills on the acoustic guitar and the fundamentals of music reading. Guitars are available for student use.

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Music Theory (298)   Grade Level: 9-12   Credit: 1 Unit
Prerequisite: None, however, previous experience in a performance music class
is helpful.

Course Description: Students study basic melodic, rhythmic, harmonic notation, and nomenclature as well as part-writing, form, and score analysis.