Page 64 - PHS POS 2021-22

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Jazz Ensemble I/II 803/804 10-12 2 1
Jazz Ensemble will perform at a variety of school and community functions. All styles of jazz music are explored with an emphasis on jazz improvisation (theory and harmony), jazz history and listening. Students playing instruments that are utilized in a standard big band format may participate (saxophones, trombones, trumpets, bass, guitars, piano, drums, and percussion). Students will also explore jazz combo literature. Jazz students of exceptional ability may audition for PMEA District and All-State Jazz Ensembles.
PREREQUISITE: Student must have all of the following:
● Audition and scheduled membership in concert or symphonic bands.
Note: ​Pianists and guitarists are exempt from the band prerequisite. Click here for video description
Concert Orchestra 801 9-12 2 1
Concert orchestra prepares and presents music for school events and public concerts. This course is open to all students who play a string instrument (violin, viola, cello, bass). Students are expected to possess the drive to perform and improve their playing ability through individual and ensemble work. The Concert Orchestra will perform concerts with the Symphonic Orchestra, and attendance at these evening and/or after school events is a requirement of this course. In addition to exploring all periods and styles of string orchestra repertoire, Concert Orchestra will be a training orchestra for string students to sharpen the musical, technical, and ensemble skills necessary to qualify for Symphonic Orchestra. Students with exceptional ability may audition to participate in PMEA Honors and District Orchestras.
Click here for video description
Symphonic Orchestra 812 10-12 2 1
Symphonic Orchestra prepares and presents music for school events and public concerts. This class is designed for the advanced string player who wishes to rehearse and perform music at a high level, and therefore is open to grade 10-12 students who play a string instrument (violin, viola, cello, bass) by audition only. Students are expected to possess a willingness to perform and expand their playing ability through individual and ensemble work. Symphonic Orchestra will explore all periods and styles of string and full orchestra repertoire, in addition to performing as the Pit Orchestra for the school musical. Participation in after school and/or evening rehearsals, as well as all concerts and performances, is a requirement of this course. Symphonic Orchestra students are expected to demonstrate and maintain the highest standards of musicianship and conduct at all rehearsals, performances, and any other orchestra functions. Students with exceptional ability may audition and be recommended to participate in interscholastic festival ensembles such as PMEA District I Honors String Orchestra and PMEA District, Regional and All-State Orchestras. PREREQUISITE: Student must have all of the following:
● Recommendation of orchestra director and audition/re-audition required every year.
Honors Orchestra 831 12 2 1
Honors Orchestra is open to Grade 12 students registered for Symphonic Orchestra. Students will be scheduled in the same period as they are currently, but have rigorous additional class requirements that justify the honors designation and credit. Additional course requirements include: Summer preparation of one major solo excerpt to be used as an audition piece for PMEA Honors Strings, preparation and performance of select small ensembles, serving as section leaders and peer mentors in orchestra, research and publication of program notes for a performance. PREREQUISITE:​ Student must have all of the following:
● Students must have teacher recommendation.
● Students must currently be enrolled in Symphonic Orchestra.
Exceptionally Prepared for Success ​ ​63