Young School Music, Tracy Nadolny Duguay
General Music
General Music is a hands-on approach to learning music, developing creativity, and encouraging collaboration. Barred instruments, non-pitched percussion, and recorders are used throughout the year. At the Young School, an Orff-Schulwerk approach to music education is primarily used. Orff encourages the music development of a child through playing instruments. World music, African-American music, and patriotic music is the focus from grade K-5. In grades 4 and 5, students spend the majority of the year collaborating with their peers to compose music.
Instrumental Music
All elementary instrumental students use a Blue Devils Band curriculum that was created in 2012. The curriculum follows relevant exercises in the Standards of Excellence band methods series. Music notes home, rhythm and theory assignments, practice logs, and performance assessments are all a part of the curriculum to ensure instrumental success of all individuals involved in the band program. Grade 4 and 5 students are eligible for the band program. Students receive one 30 minute lesson per week.
Chorus
Students sing a wide variety of vocal literature that teaches history and culture through musical expression. Seasonal pieces, world music, jazz arrangements, popular songs, spirituals, and patriotic pieces are performed throughout the year. Choral songs range from unison pieces, to songs with simple harmonies, descants, or 2-3 part partner songs. Choral students perform in school assemblies, after-school concerts, and 1 district-wide performance.
At the Young School, chorus takes place during an exploratory period. Music, Art, PE, and Guidance choose an elective to teach during this period. This gives students the opportunity to take part in electives of their choice throughout the year. Chorus, leadership, basketball, and 3-D design are electives held in the past. Twice a year, Exploratory Showcases are performed and displayed for families and students.
Lyons School Music, Scott Dawson
General Music
General music is a hands-on, student active and centered discovery approach. Keys to literacy strategies are used to introduce the content students will be learning. Activities are created that uses kinesthetic learning to discover how the content is related to music. There is always a reflection period in class where students discuss what the purpose of the activity and how it related to the subject matter. Additional activities related to the subject are performed so that students can discover themselves creatively. Students understand concepts if they are active participants in the learning process. Making mistakes are a value students grow to accept in the process to mastery. In general music, students sing a variety of songs, take part in movement activities, and read and play written music through the use of recorders and ukuleles. In upper grades, students compose and analyze songs. Unique to the RPS, the Lyons School puts on an annual second grade musical.
Instrumental music
All elementary instrumental students use a Blue Devils Band curriculum that was created in 2012. The curriculum follows relevant exercises in the Standards of Excellence band methods series. Music notes home, rhythm and theory assignments, practice logs, and performance assessments are all a part of the curriculum to ensure instrumental success of all individuals involved in the band program. Grade 4 and 5 students are eligible for the band program. Students receive one 30 minute lesson per week.
Chorus
Chorus takes place before school once a week. Students learn popular songs and songs in foreign languages.
JFK SchoolMatthew Thomas
General Music
The general music program at the JFK is dedicated to using a hands -on approach to teaching music. Using primarily the Kodaly and Feierabend methods to learn and perform music, general music classes encourage music literacy. Classroom instruments including barred instruments, non-pitched percussion and recorders are used throughout the year to supplement musical understanding in a kinesthetic manner. From grades K-5, Non-Western music, American Folk Songs, and patriotic music are a focus. Kindergarten and First grade have a heavy influence on Pitch matching, echoing songs, and moving to music. Third grade focuses heavily on recorder methods, and the 4th and 5th grades use folk dances and games, along with music appreciation and history to supplement the school’s social studies curriculum and to infuse ELA practices (Keys to Literacy) in the classroom.
Instrumental Music
All elementary instrumental students use a Blue Devils Band curriculum that was created in 2012. The curriculum follows relevant exercises in the Standards of Excellence band methods series. Music notes home, rhythm and theory assignments, practice logs, and performance assessments are all a part of the curriculum to ensure instrumental success of all individuals involved in the band program. Grade 4 and 5 students are eligible for the band program. Students receive one 40 minute lesson per week. Lessons are small groups organized either by level of musicianship and fluency, or by instrumental group.
Chorus
Chorus students sing a wide variety of repertoire that encourages healthy singing, proper technique, and teaches history and culture. Seasonal songs, world music, popular music, and patriotic songs are practiced and performed throughout the school year. Unison songs, partner songs, rounds, and songs with simple harmonies are included in the repertoire for the year. The chorus performs in school assemblies, after-school concerts, and 1-district wide performance. At the JFK, the chorus meets once a week for 40 minutes during the school day. Due to high enrollment, there are two choruses; a fourth grade chorus and a fifth grade chorus.
Donovan School, Kaitlyn Sicinski
General Music
At the Donovan School, celebrating the many seasons and holidays is central to the music program. Students explore music through singing, playing instruments, active listening, and dancing. As music fundamentals are built on, more advanced music concepts are addressed in upper grades. In third grade, students begin recorder instruction as a prerequisite to the band program. Students care for their instrument in the same way they would care for their future band instrument. Reading standard music notation and playing with correct instrumental techniques are addressed throughout the year. During general music in grades 4 and 5, students spend time learning about modern and classical composers, listening to and evaluating music and music performances. Students also create music by playing classroom instruments or by using technology available in the music classroom.
Instrumental Music
All elementary instrumental students use a Blue Devils Band curriculum that was created in 2012. The curriculum follows relevant exercises in the Standards of Excellence band methods series. Music notes home, rhythm and theory assignments, practice logs, and performance assessments are all a part of the curriculum to ensure instrumental success of all individuals involved in the band program. Grade 4 and 5 students are eligible for the band program. Currently, 50% of all 4th and 5th grade students at the Donovan School are enrolled in the band program. Students receive one 30 minute lesson per week. Lessons are small groups organized either by level of musicianship and fluency, or by instrumental group.
Chorus
The Chorus ensemble meets once a week for 30 minutes before school. Students work to create a well-blended ensemble sound. This ensemble is used as the foundational groundwork for secondary choral ensembles as the students begin to truly enjoy singing more challenging works and discovering how to use their voices in a variety of different ways. The Donovan School Choral group performs two to three times a year, working on seasonal works and also fun energetic works to celebrate the warm season (spring). Unique to the Donovan School, the choral ensemble always includes a type of Show Choir choreographed piece.
Randolph Community Middle School Band, Timothy Fleming
Grade 6 Band
6th Grade Band classes are primarily divided by instruments type. The goal of the 6th grade band ensemble is to continue the lesson progress from the Elementary program, while transitioning to an ensemble-based experience. Proper technique is the primary focus, while developing a sense of musicianship and appreciation for literature.
Grade 7 Band
7th Grade Band is an ensemble-based program in which the students perform music at an appropriate difficulty level. Skills and knowledge are taught primarily through literature, while supplementing through a pedagogically proven method book. Musical expression, instrumental control, and stylistic interpretation is major areas of focus in this class.
Grade 8 Band
8th Grade Band is an ensemble-based program in which the students perform music at an appropriate difficulty level. Musical skills and understandings are taught through performance literature. The major focus of this class is for the students to move beyond performing what is printed on the page and to have a deeper understanding of their involvement as performers. Decision-making and analysis are skills that are developed and used to accomplish this.
Randolph Community Middle School General Music, Timothy Fleming
Grade 6 General Music
Students are introduced to the elements of music through the exploration of music theory, music history, listening assignments, and a variety of other resources to provide them with a broad exposure to the various styles of music that are present in today’s society and throughout history.
Randolph Community Middle School Chorus, Sara Goddu
Grade 6 Chorus
RCMS grade 6 choral students sing rounds, 2-part songs, and begin to delve into 3-part songs. Students focus on developing their sight-singing skills through the use of Solfege. A variety of songs are performed in two concerts, including spirituals, Broadway, folk songs, popular songs, and songs in foreign languages.
Focus on vocal technique and health.
Focus on performance and audience etiquette.
Grade 7 Chorus
In 7th grade chorus, songs are sung mostly in 3-part harmonic arrangements. Further developing music literacy through Solfege and sight-reading is continued. Appropriate vocal technique is addressed to encourage healthy singing. Performance etiquette and audience etiquette is a constant. Students perform in two evening concerts as well as at several Providence Bruins games.
Grade 8 Chorus
Students begin to sing in 4-part harmonies. In addition to two evening school concerts, students also take part in the March Step Up Concert with the Randolph High School chorus. Students also have the opportunity to take part in auditioning for festival opportunities in the South Eastern Massachusetts Music Education Association Districts Festival as well as the South Eastern Massachusetts Band Masters Association Festival.
Show Choir
Show Choir is an after school ensemble that performs in two evening school concerts as well as two competitions outside of the school district. Students learn up to five songs with choreographed dance moves.
Randolph Community Middle School General Music, Sara Goddu
General Music
Students in General Music at the middle school have a well-rounded music education that aligns with the Massachusetts Arts Frameworks as well as the National Standards for Music. Students read and write standard notation, create and perform compositions, and learn basic chords on the guitar to play at least two songs. A Musical Artist Project is assigned for students to research a musical artist. Students are evaluated based on their presentation and accurate research. In addition to class assignments, students also keep a listening log to record aspects of music through active listening.
Randolph High School Band, Adam Shekleton
Band (CP) 1.50 Credits Grades 9-12
Band class is a performance class for students with instrumental experience who desire to become proficient on a brass or woodwind instrument. Instruction includes instrumental technique, music reading and interpretation, music theory, as well as performance skills. Students study and perform the finest contemporary and traditional literature written for wind band. Components the band course includes concert band, marching band and chamber music ensembles. In addition to a very exciting performance schedule, the band also attends music festivals, concerts and regularly works with clinicians. Student progress is evaluated by means of recorded playing performances and written assessments.
Note: As a member of the RHS Band, students are required to perform with the band at evening and weekend concerts, half time shows of football games, and attend afterschool rehearsals as needed to meet the band's performance objectives.
Band (H) 1.50 Credits Grades 10-12
Band class is a performance class for students with instrumental experience who desire to become proficient on a brass or woodwind instrument. Instruction includes instrumental technique, music reading and interpretation, intermediate music theory, as well as performance skills. Students study and perform the finest contemporary and traditional literature written for wind band. Components of this course include concert band, marching band and chamber music ensembles. In addition to a very exciting performance schedule, the band also attends music festivals, concerts and regularly works with clinicians. Student progress is evaluated by means of recorded playing performances and written assessments.
Note: As a member of the RHS Honors Band, students are required to perform with the band at evening and weekend concerts, half time shows of football games, attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the band's performance objectives, audition for SEMMEA District Festival and/or SEMSBA Festival, perform at one or more RHS Student Artist Recitals and participate in a Chamber Group (10 members or less) that rehearses at least three times per month.
In addition, students must complete two from the following list):
• Give group/private lessons to band students at RCMS and/or elementary schools at least twice per month
• Perform at an elderly/community home in Randolph once per month
• Serve in a leadership role for the RHS Band (section leader, librarian, etc.)
• Receive private lessons
Percussion (CP) 1.50 Credits Grades 9-12
Percussion class is a performance class for students who desire to become proficient on a percussion instrument. Instruction includes specific instrumental technique, music reading and interpretation, basic music theory, as well as performance skills. Students study and perform the finest contemporary and traditional literature written for wind band. Components of this course include concert band, marching band and chamber music ensembles. In addition to a very exciting performance schedule, the band also attends music festivals, concerts and regularly works with clinicians. Student progress is evaluated by means of recorded playing performances and written assessments.
Note: As a member of the RHS Percussion class, students are required to perform with the band at evening and weekend concerts, half time shows of football games, and attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the band's performance objectives.
Percussion (H) 1.50 Credits Grades 10-12
Percussion class is a performance class for students who desire to become proficient on a percussion instrument. Instruction includes advanced, specific instrumental technique, advanced music reading and interpretation, basic music theory, as well as performance skills. Students will study and perform the finest contemporary and traditional literature written for wind band. Components of this course include concert band, marching band and chamber music ensembles. In addition to a very exciting performance schedule, the band also attends music festivals, concerts and regularly works with clinicians. Student progress is evaluated by means of recorded playing performances and written assessments.
Note: As a member of the RHS Honors Percussion class, students are required to perform with the band at evening and weekend concerts, half time shows of football games, attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the band's performance objectives, audition for SEMMEA District Festival and/or SEMSBA Festival, perform at one or more RHS Student Artist Recitals and participate in a Chamber Group (10 members or less) that rehearses at least three times per month.
In addition, students must complete two from the following list):
• Give group/private lessons to band students at RCMS and/or elementary schools at least twice per month
• Perform at an elderly/community home in Randolph once per month
• Serve in a leadership role for the RHS Band (section leader, librarian, etc.)
• Receive private lessons
*Band and Percussion classes participate in a 1-week band camp in August, evening rehearsals two/three times per week for three hours in the marching season, Saturday competitions in the marching season, evening rehearsals two/three times per month in concert season, 3+ evening concerts in concert season, and one two-day “camp” rehearsal in concert season in addition to other requirements as requested by the district, administration, school committee, etc.
Randolph High School General Music, Adam Shekleton
Music Technology I (CP) 0.50 Credits Grades 9-12
Music Technology provides students with hands- on experience of a variety of music technologies. Course topics include musical composition, audio editing, music critique, website design, and technology research. Students explore the effect music technology has on our world and how technology has affected music in our lives. Students learn basic terms associated with music editing and also study basic music theory topics. Student progress is evaluated by means of written assessments and in class performance presentations.
Music Technology II (H) .50 Credits Grades 10-12
Music Technology II is an extension of the Music Technology I course, expanding on knowledge and skills previously learned in Music Technology I. Students are introduced to using MIDI music with computers. Students create their own original compositions through notation software and recording tracks. Additional class topics include composing silent film music, creating podcasts, and careers in the music industry. Students study advanced music technology terms and music theory and composition topics. Student progress is evaluated by means of written assessments and in class performance presentations.
Music Theory (H) 0.50 Credits Grades 9-12
(New in 2015-2016)
Music Theory is a class for students who are interested in developing their advanced visual and aural understanding of the structure of music. Students study the advanced language of music, learn compositional techniques and the rules associated with composing, study the various types of form in music, and study basic ear-training to be able to recognize the above elements aurally. Students are evaluated based on written and performance assessments.
Music Seminar (PV) 1.00 Credits Grades 9-12
(New in 2015-2016)
Music Seminar offers students in the Pre-Vocational Program the opportunity to learn about instruments, genres, performance, and music history. Students have exposure to music from earliest times to current. Students will experience music through listening, demonstration, and hands-on performance.
Randolph High School Chorus, Jacqueline Carvey
Chamber Singers (H) 1.00 Credit Grades 10-12
Enrollment in Chamber Singers is by audition. Chamber Singers is and ensemble dedicated to students who wish to expand their choral singing skills.
Students receive instruction in breathing technique, diction, sight-reading, and vocal production as well as performance skills. A wide variety of choral literature is performed. Students are given the chance to audition for local, district and state festivals.
Note: As a member of the RHS Chamber Singers, students are required to perform with the group at evening and weekend concerts, and attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the choir's performance objectives. The after school rehearsals are considered co-curricular (required) for the course, as opposed to extracurricular activities (practices, clubs, etc.)
Students must participate in at least two of the following:
Concert Chorale (CP) 1.00 Credit Grades 9-12
Concert Choral is an ensemble for aspiring choral singers who wish to explore vocal and choral technique as demonstrated in a large ensemble. Students perform a varied repertoire of literature spanning several centuries and styles.
Note: As a member of the RHS Concert Chorale, students are required to perform with the group at evening and weekend concerts, and attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the choir's performance objectives.
Randolph High School Piano, Jacqueline Carvey
Piano I (CP) 0.50 Credits Grades 9-12
Class Piano is offered for students having little or no experience with the piano keyboard. Students learn to play simple pieces of music, reading standard music notation and using proper piano technique. Major piano compositions and internationally renowned pianists are explored during the class. Student progress is evaluated by means of written assessment and individual in-class piano performance.
Piano II (H) 0.50 Credits Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Grade of 80% or higher in Piano I (GP).
Class Piano II is an extension of the Piano I course, expanding upon knowledge and skills previously learned in Piano I. Further development of proper piano technique and reading standard music notation is addressed. Additional topics include sight-singing, ear training and musical composition. Students are exposed to and study the piano works of influential composers. Student progress is evaluated by means of written assessment and individual in-class piano performance.
General Music
General Music is a hands-on approach to learning music, developing creativity, and encouraging collaboration. Barred instruments, non-pitched percussion, and recorders are used throughout the year. At the Young School, an Orff-Schulwerk approach to music education is primarily used. Orff encourages the music development of a child through playing instruments. World music, African-American music, and patriotic music is the focus from grade K-5. In grades 4 and 5, students spend the majority of the year collaborating with their peers to compose music.
Instrumental Music
All elementary instrumental students use a Blue Devils Band curriculum that was created in 2012. The curriculum follows relevant exercises in the Standards of Excellence band methods series. Music notes home, rhythm and theory assignments, practice logs, and performance assessments are all a part of the curriculum to ensure instrumental success of all individuals involved in the band program. Grade 4 and 5 students are eligible for the band program. Students receive one 30 minute lesson per week.
Chorus
Students sing a wide variety of vocal literature that teaches history and culture through musical expression. Seasonal pieces, world music, jazz arrangements, popular songs, spirituals, and patriotic pieces are performed throughout the year. Choral songs range from unison pieces, to songs with simple harmonies, descants, or 2-3 part partner songs. Choral students perform in school assemblies, after-school concerts, and 1 district-wide performance.
At the Young School, chorus takes place during an exploratory period. Music, Art, PE, and Guidance choose an elective to teach during this period. This gives students the opportunity to take part in electives of their choice throughout the year. Chorus, leadership, basketball, and 3-D design are electives held in the past. Twice a year, Exploratory Showcases are performed and displayed for families and students.
Lyons School Music, Scott Dawson
General Music
General music is a hands-on, student active and centered discovery approach. Keys to literacy strategies are used to introduce the content students will be learning. Activities are created that uses kinesthetic learning to discover how the content is related to music. There is always a reflection period in class where students discuss what the purpose of the activity and how it related to the subject matter. Additional activities related to the subject are performed so that students can discover themselves creatively. Students understand concepts if they are active participants in the learning process. Making mistakes are a value students grow to accept in the process to mastery. In general music, students sing a variety of songs, take part in movement activities, and read and play written music through the use of recorders and ukuleles. In upper grades, students compose and analyze songs. Unique to the RPS, the Lyons School puts on an annual second grade musical.
Instrumental music
All elementary instrumental students use a Blue Devils Band curriculum that was created in 2012. The curriculum follows relevant exercises in the Standards of Excellence band methods series. Music notes home, rhythm and theory assignments, practice logs, and performance assessments are all a part of the curriculum to ensure instrumental success of all individuals involved in the band program. Grade 4 and 5 students are eligible for the band program. Students receive one 30 minute lesson per week.
Chorus
Chorus takes place before school once a week. Students learn popular songs and songs in foreign languages.
JFK SchoolMatthew Thomas
General Music
The general music program at the JFK is dedicated to using a hands -on approach to teaching music. Using primarily the Kodaly and Feierabend methods to learn and perform music, general music classes encourage music literacy. Classroom instruments including barred instruments, non-pitched percussion and recorders are used throughout the year to supplement musical understanding in a kinesthetic manner. From grades K-5, Non-Western music, American Folk Songs, and patriotic music are a focus. Kindergarten and First grade have a heavy influence on Pitch matching, echoing songs, and moving to music. Third grade focuses heavily on recorder methods, and the 4th and 5th grades use folk dances and games, along with music appreciation and history to supplement the school’s social studies curriculum and to infuse ELA practices (Keys to Literacy) in the classroom.
Instrumental Music
All elementary instrumental students use a Blue Devils Band curriculum that was created in 2012. The curriculum follows relevant exercises in the Standards of Excellence band methods series. Music notes home, rhythm and theory assignments, practice logs, and performance assessments are all a part of the curriculum to ensure instrumental success of all individuals involved in the band program. Grade 4 and 5 students are eligible for the band program. Students receive one 40 minute lesson per week. Lessons are small groups organized either by level of musicianship and fluency, or by instrumental group.
Chorus
Chorus students sing a wide variety of repertoire that encourages healthy singing, proper technique, and teaches history and culture. Seasonal songs, world music, popular music, and patriotic songs are practiced and performed throughout the school year. Unison songs, partner songs, rounds, and songs with simple harmonies are included in the repertoire for the year. The chorus performs in school assemblies, after-school concerts, and 1-district wide performance. At the JFK, the chorus meets once a week for 40 minutes during the school day. Due to high enrollment, there are two choruses; a fourth grade chorus and a fifth grade chorus.
Donovan School, Kaitlyn Sicinski
General Music
At the Donovan School, celebrating the many seasons and holidays is central to the music program. Students explore music through singing, playing instruments, active listening, and dancing. As music fundamentals are built on, more advanced music concepts are addressed in upper grades. In third grade, students begin recorder instruction as a prerequisite to the band program. Students care for their instrument in the same way they would care for their future band instrument. Reading standard music notation and playing with correct instrumental techniques are addressed throughout the year. During general music in grades 4 and 5, students spend time learning about modern and classical composers, listening to and evaluating music and music performances. Students also create music by playing classroom instruments or by using technology available in the music classroom.
Instrumental Music
All elementary instrumental students use a Blue Devils Band curriculum that was created in 2012. The curriculum follows relevant exercises in the Standards of Excellence band methods series. Music notes home, rhythm and theory assignments, practice logs, and performance assessments are all a part of the curriculum to ensure instrumental success of all individuals involved in the band program. Grade 4 and 5 students are eligible for the band program. Currently, 50% of all 4th and 5th grade students at the Donovan School are enrolled in the band program. Students receive one 30 minute lesson per week. Lessons are small groups organized either by level of musicianship and fluency, or by instrumental group.
Chorus
The Chorus ensemble meets once a week for 30 minutes before school. Students work to create a well-blended ensemble sound. This ensemble is used as the foundational groundwork for secondary choral ensembles as the students begin to truly enjoy singing more challenging works and discovering how to use their voices in a variety of different ways. The Donovan School Choral group performs two to three times a year, working on seasonal works and also fun energetic works to celebrate the warm season (spring). Unique to the Donovan School, the choral ensemble always includes a type of Show Choir choreographed piece.
Randolph Community Middle School Band, Timothy Fleming
Grade 6 Band
6th Grade Band classes are primarily divided by instruments type. The goal of the 6th grade band ensemble is to continue the lesson progress from the Elementary program, while transitioning to an ensemble-based experience. Proper technique is the primary focus, while developing a sense of musicianship and appreciation for literature.
Grade 7 Band
7th Grade Band is an ensemble-based program in which the students perform music at an appropriate difficulty level. Skills and knowledge are taught primarily through literature, while supplementing through a pedagogically proven method book. Musical expression, instrumental control, and stylistic interpretation is major areas of focus in this class.
Grade 8 Band
8th Grade Band is an ensemble-based program in which the students perform music at an appropriate difficulty level. Musical skills and understandings are taught through performance literature. The major focus of this class is for the students to move beyond performing what is printed on the page and to have a deeper understanding of their involvement as performers. Decision-making and analysis are skills that are developed and used to accomplish this.
Randolph Community Middle School General Music, Timothy Fleming
Grade 6 General Music
Students are introduced to the elements of music through the exploration of music theory, music history, listening assignments, and a variety of other resources to provide them with a broad exposure to the various styles of music that are present in today’s society and throughout history.
Randolph Community Middle School Chorus, Sara Goddu
Grade 6 Chorus
RCMS grade 6 choral students sing rounds, 2-part songs, and begin to delve into 3-part songs. Students focus on developing their sight-singing skills through the use of Solfege. A variety of songs are performed in two concerts, including spirituals, Broadway, folk songs, popular songs, and songs in foreign languages.
Focus on vocal technique and health.
Focus on performance and audience etiquette.
Grade 7 Chorus
In 7th grade chorus, songs are sung mostly in 3-part harmonic arrangements. Further developing music literacy through Solfege and sight-reading is continued. Appropriate vocal technique is addressed to encourage healthy singing. Performance etiquette and audience etiquette is a constant. Students perform in two evening concerts as well as at several Providence Bruins games.
Grade 8 Chorus
Students begin to sing in 4-part harmonies. In addition to two evening school concerts, students also take part in the March Step Up Concert with the Randolph High School chorus. Students also have the opportunity to take part in auditioning for festival opportunities in the South Eastern Massachusetts Music Education Association Districts Festival as well as the South Eastern Massachusetts Band Masters Association Festival.
Show Choir
Show Choir is an after school ensemble that performs in two evening school concerts as well as two competitions outside of the school district. Students learn up to five songs with choreographed dance moves.
Randolph Community Middle School General Music, Sara Goddu
General Music
Students in General Music at the middle school have a well-rounded music education that aligns with the Massachusetts Arts Frameworks as well as the National Standards for Music. Students read and write standard notation, create and perform compositions, and learn basic chords on the guitar to play at least two songs. A Musical Artist Project is assigned for students to research a musical artist. Students are evaluated based on their presentation and accurate research. In addition to class assignments, students also keep a listening log to record aspects of music through active listening.
Randolph High School Band, Adam Shekleton
Band (CP) 1.50 Credits Grades 9-12
Band class is a performance class for students with instrumental experience who desire to become proficient on a brass or woodwind instrument. Instruction includes instrumental technique, music reading and interpretation, music theory, as well as performance skills. Students study and perform the finest contemporary and traditional literature written for wind band. Components the band course includes concert band, marching band and chamber music ensembles. In addition to a very exciting performance schedule, the band also attends music festivals, concerts and regularly works with clinicians. Student progress is evaluated by means of recorded playing performances and written assessments.
Note: As a member of the RHS Band, students are required to perform with the band at evening and weekend concerts, half time shows of football games, and attend afterschool rehearsals as needed to meet the band's performance objectives.
Band (H) 1.50 Credits Grades 10-12
Band class is a performance class for students with instrumental experience who desire to become proficient on a brass or woodwind instrument. Instruction includes instrumental technique, music reading and interpretation, intermediate music theory, as well as performance skills. Students study and perform the finest contemporary and traditional literature written for wind band. Components of this course include concert band, marching band and chamber music ensembles. In addition to a very exciting performance schedule, the band also attends music festivals, concerts and regularly works with clinicians. Student progress is evaluated by means of recorded playing performances and written assessments.
Note: As a member of the RHS Honors Band, students are required to perform with the band at evening and weekend concerts, half time shows of football games, attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the band's performance objectives, audition for SEMMEA District Festival and/or SEMSBA Festival, perform at one or more RHS Student Artist Recitals and participate in a Chamber Group (10 members or less) that rehearses at least three times per month.
In addition, students must complete two from the following list):
• Give group/private lessons to band students at RCMS and/or elementary schools at least twice per month
• Perform at an elderly/community home in Randolph once per month
• Serve in a leadership role for the RHS Band (section leader, librarian, etc.)
• Receive private lessons
Percussion (CP) 1.50 Credits Grades 9-12
Percussion class is a performance class for students who desire to become proficient on a percussion instrument. Instruction includes specific instrumental technique, music reading and interpretation, basic music theory, as well as performance skills. Students study and perform the finest contemporary and traditional literature written for wind band. Components of this course include concert band, marching band and chamber music ensembles. In addition to a very exciting performance schedule, the band also attends music festivals, concerts and regularly works with clinicians. Student progress is evaluated by means of recorded playing performances and written assessments.
Note: As a member of the RHS Percussion class, students are required to perform with the band at evening and weekend concerts, half time shows of football games, and attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the band's performance objectives.
Percussion (H) 1.50 Credits Grades 10-12
Percussion class is a performance class for students who desire to become proficient on a percussion instrument. Instruction includes advanced, specific instrumental technique, advanced music reading and interpretation, basic music theory, as well as performance skills. Students will study and perform the finest contemporary and traditional literature written for wind band. Components of this course include concert band, marching band and chamber music ensembles. In addition to a very exciting performance schedule, the band also attends music festivals, concerts and regularly works with clinicians. Student progress is evaluated by means of recorded playing performances and written assessments.
Note: As a member of the RHS Honors Percussion class, students are required to perform with the band at evening and weekend concerts, half time shows of football games, attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the band's performance objectives, audition for SEMMEA District Festival and/or SEMSBA Festival, perform at one or more RHS Student Artist Recitals and participate in a Chamber Group (10 members or less) that rehearses at least three times per month.
In addition, students must complete two from the following list):
• Give group/private lessons to band students at RCMS and/or elementary schools at least twice per month
• Perform at an elderly/community home in Randolph once per month
• Serve in a leadership role for the RHS Band (section leader, librarian, etc.)
• Receive private lessons
*Band and Percussion classes participate in a 1-week band camp in August, evening rehearsals two/three times per week for three hours in the marching season, Saturday competitions in the marching season, evening rehearsals two/three times per month in concert season, 3+ evening concerts in concert season, and one two-day “camp” rehearsal in concert season in addition to other requirements as requested by the district, administration, school committee, etc.
Randolph High School General Music, Adam Shekleton
Music Technology I (CP) 0.50 Credits Grades 9-12
Music Technology provides students with hands- on experience of a variety of music technologies. Course topics include musical composition, audio editing, music critique, website design, and technology research. Students explore the effect music technology has on our world and how technology has affected music in our lives. Students learn basic terms associated with music editing and also study basic music theory topics. Student progress is evaluated by means of written assessments and in class performance presentations.
Music Technology II (H) .50 Credits Grades 10-12
Music Technology II is an extension of the Music Technology I course, expanding on knowledge and skills previously learned in Music Technology I. Students are introduced to using MIDI music with computers. Students create their own original compositions through notation software and recording tracks. Additional class topics include composing silent film music, creating podcasts, and careers in the music industry. Students study advanced music technology terms and music theory and composition topics. Student progress is evaluated by means of written assessments and in class performance presentations.
Music Theory (H) 0.50 Credits Grades 9-12
(New in 2015-2016)
Music Theory is a class for students who are interested in developing their advanced visual and aural understanding of the structure of music. Students study the advanced language of music, learn compositional techniques and the rules associated with composing, study the various types of form in music, and study basic ear-training to be able to recognize the above elements aurally. Students are evaluated based on written and performance assessments.
Music Seminar (PV) 1.00 Credits Grades 9-12
(New in 2015-2016)
Music Seminar offers students in the Pre-Vocational Program the opportunity to learn about instruments, genres, performance, and music history. Students have exposure to music from earliest times to current. Students will experience music through listening, demonstration, and hands-on performance.
Randolph High School Chorus, Jacqueline Carvey
Chamber Singers (H) 1.00 Credit Grades 10-12
Enrollment in Chamber Singers is by audition. Chamber Singers is and ensemble dedicated to students who wish to expand their choral singing skills.
Students receive instruction in breathing technique, diction, sight-reading, and vocal production as well as performance skills. A wide variety of choral literature is performed. Students are given the chance to audition for local, district and state festivals.
Note: As a member of the RHS Chamber Singers, students are required to perform with the group at evening and weekend concerts, and attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the choir's performance objectives. The after school rehearsals are considered co-curricular (required) for the course, as opposed to extracurricular activities (practices, clubs, etc.)
Students must participate in at least two of the following:
- Private voice lessons
- Audition for a music festival (SEMSBA, Districts or All-State)
- Assume a leadership role within the group (section leader, wardrobe coordinator, etc)
- Perform in a Student Artist Recital
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Concert Chorale (CP) 1.00 Credit Grades 9-12
Concert Choral is an ensemble for aspiring choral singers who wish to explore vocal and choral technique as demonstrated in a large ensemble. Students perform a varied repertoire of literature spanning several centuries and styles.
Note: As a member of the RHS Concert Chorale, students are required to perform with the group at evening and weekend concerts, and attend after school rehearsals as needed to meet the choir's performance objectives.
Randolph High School Piano, Jacqueline Carvey
Piano I (CP) 0.50 Credits Grades 9-12
Class Piano is offered for students having little or no experience with the piano keyboard. Students learn to play simple pieces of music, reading standard music notation and using proper piano technique. Major piano compositions and internationally renowned pianists are explored during the class. Student progress is evaluated by means of written assessment and individual in-class piano performance.
Piano II (H) 0.50 Credits Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Grade of 80% or higher in Piano I (GP).
Class Piano II is an extension of the Piano I course, expanding upon knowledge and skills previously learned in Piano I. Further development of proper piano technique and reading standard music notation is addressed. Additional topics include sight-singing, ear training and musical composition. Students are exposed to and study the piano works of influential composers. Student progress is evaluated by means of written assessment and individual in-class piano performance.
