Performing Arts

Performing Arts

“The true purpose of arts education is not necessarily to create more professional dancers or artists. [It’s] to create more complete human beings who are critical thinkers, who have curious minds, who can lead productive lives.” - Kelly Pollock. Wooster believes that participation in music is a vital component of a well-rounded education and is integral to the school’s philosophy of fostering relationships and community. We are thus committed to providing students experiences that are communal, social, and musical. Neuroscience shows that singing in a group releases endorphins and oxytocin, reducing stress and producing feelings of happiness, regardless of the singer’s skill. The performing arts program contributes to the culture and community of the arts through music ensembles, electives, and theatrical productions.

Course grading is based on displayed understanding and application - in class and at home - of musical/theatrical concepts (competencies) and, when applicable, public performances. Effort is assessed through behavior, attitude, and willingness to seek extra help. Additional time commitments are expected from ensemble members for on- and off-campus performances and will be communicated in advance.

Requirements

All 5th - 8th grade students are required to participate in one of the music ensembles described below. Enrollment in any ensemble is at the discretion of the director and may require an audition to ensure the best placement for the student.

Additional Opportunities for Exploration in the Arts

Students may participate in our Applied Instrumental Music Program, wherein they can study privately with an instructor for an additional fee. To discuss instruments and faculty available, please contact the Performing Arts Coordinator, Claire Simard, at claire.simard@woosterschool.org.

Introduction to Concert Band: Brass, Woodwind and Concert Percussion 1.5 credits AY 5-6

Introduction to Concert Band is designed to introduce students to the basics of ensemble playing within the traditional format of brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments. Each student is given the foundational skills that allow them to pursue numerous musical activities beyond this class and specifically prepares them for Intermediate Concert Band.

Intermediate Concert Band: Brass, Woodwind and Concert Percussion 1.5 credits AY 6-8

Intermediate Concert Band is meant for students with at least one year of concert band experience or private instruction on a band instrument. These instruments include flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone and/or mallet percussion. Students build on beginning ensemble skills, expand their range, and rehearse and perform music in multiple harmonies. An emphasis will be placed on enhancing music-reading skills with work in sight-reading and score study. In this course some students may choose to switch to oboe, French horn, baritone, or tuba, with director permission.

Rock Band 1.5 credits AY 6-8

Rock Band is open to students who study guitar, bass, piano, and drums. The music performed varies but in general covers the many subgenres of rock and modern popular music. Students may be grouped into smaller ensembles based on instrument, ability, and musical preference. Instrumentalists should have at least one year of private music instruction and should be studying privately through the duration of the class. At home practice of class material is required. Students will learn improvisation, chord chart interpretation, and rhythm section techniques. The group will perform throughout the year, at concerts and other events.

Percussion Ensemble 1.5 credits AY 5-8

Percussion Ensemble offers students hands-on experience playing the djembe and other hand percussion instruments. Students in this class become familiar with African, Brazilian and Latin rhythms. Students listen to world music and break down the percussion components. Students in this class also study basic rhythmic notation and form a cohesive ensemble. Students explore the different methods involved in playing threestyles: call and response, theme and variation, and soloing.

Chamber Orchestra: Strings, Winds and Brass Instruments 1.5 credits AY 5-8

Chamber Orchestra is designed to teach orchestral performance skills. Typically, the class enrolls players of bowed strings (violin, viola, cello and string bass) and orchestral winds (flute, clarinet, and others). Preparation and performance of classical music is the group's primary focus, but this ensemble incorporates lighter selections as well. Because of the repertoire demands, any student wishing to be in this group is strongly encouraged to concurrently study their instrument privately. Students in this ensemble typically have at least two years of instruction on their instrument, know the fundamentals of music, and are fluent in reading music. Enrollment in this course requires permission from the instructor and may involve an audition.

Chorus: Foundations in Singing 1.5 credits AY 5-6

Chorus provides a musical foundation, love of singing and familiarity with everyone’s own natural instrument, their own voice. Via a fun and interactive process, students will sing from the vast canon of vocal repertoire as well as pop and Broadway songs, while learning correct vocal technique, music fundamentals, and performance skills. Chorus performs in both the winter and spring concerts, thereby developing skills of confidence and poise. Written and oral assessments will track students’ musical progress as they become musically literate and expressive singers.

Chorus: The Singing Musician 1.5 credits AY 7-8

This class provides 7th and 8th Grade students the opportunity to strengthen their musical foundation and prepares them for singing in an Upper School chorus. Music literacy is continually stressed, with students reading their music from a vocal score and singing in 2- and 3-part harmony. The selection, preparation, and performance of music in the winter and spring concerts highlight students’ mastery of these skills. Students will gain poise and self-confidence throughout this course, as well as develop the musical skills for a lifetime of musical enjoyment.