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Program of Studies » Music Department

Music Department

The Holy Spirit High School Music Program is a curriculum designed for the continuation of musical study from a middle school program. The program develops the music student’s ability to read, interpret, and perform the various forms of music found throughout history from as early as the Renaissance to as recently as the 21st century.
 
All vocalists and instrumentalists will be considered for the department based on the following:
1) an audition in their specific area of performance
2) a Music Theory placement evaluation.
 
Once accepted into the department, students are required to perform on a regular basis in rehearsals and concerts. Also, they are required to study Music Theory in a classroom setting. Grading for the course is determined by music theory test scores, as well as participation in departmental performances which include: annual concerts, school Masses, Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement.
 
All music students have the opportunity to audition for the pit orchestra to perform in the annual school play. Also, they have the opportunity to audition for many different regional music competitions such as: All South Jersey Regional Band and Choir, the All State Band and Choir and Rising Star Competition.  
 
The Holy Spirit Music Department is a member of the Tri M Music Honor Society, which is a division of the Music Educators National Conference (ME of NC). Students are eligible to join the chapter in their second year, providing they meet all the necessary academic requirements.
 
Stagecraft introduces students to a practical approach to technical and production aspects. Students will assist with scenery and props, sound systems, lighting and costuming. Students will play an active role in the production of the school play, mass and other events that employ the use of the school stage.
 
Quarterly projects will be required, as well as some after school or weekend hours.
 
 
Introduction to vocal part singing at the high school level. Attention is given to posture, diction and tone quality. Music Theory/Music Appreciation includes: Grand Staff, Basic Time Signatures, Notation and Ear Training.
 
Open to intermediate students. Audition required.
 
Introduction to ensemble playing and accompaniment. Music Theory/Music Appreciation includes: Grand Staff, Basic Time Signatures, Notation, and Ear Training.
 
Open to intermediate students. Audition required.
 
Proficiency in vocal part singing and further development in technique. Attention given to musical concepts and sight reading. Key signatures, Intervals, Solfege, Transposition, Triads.
 
Successful completion of Choral I is required.
 
Proficiency in ensemble playing and accompaniment. Attention given to musical concepts and sight reading: Emphasizing Stylistic differences, Key Signatures, Intervals, Solfege, Transposition, Triads.
 
Successful completion of Instrumental I is required.
 
Select Choral: All voicing for medium/advanced levels. Emphasis will be placed on difficult repertoire. Musical concepts to be covered: Minor Scales, Modes, Musical Form, Figured Bass.
 
Successful Completion of Choral II is required.
 
Select Instrumental Groups: medium/advanced levels of ensemble and accompaniment repertoire as well as improvisation. Musical Concepts to be covered: Minor Scales, Modes, Musical Form, Figured Bass.
 
Successful completion of Instrumental II is required.
 
Show Choir level with advanced level of difficulty. Madrigals, solo performance, and proficiency in different languages and styles. Student Directorship. Musical Concepts: Composing/Arranging. Attention given to Music Technology and Music Therapy.
 
Successful completion of Advanced Choral III is required.
 
Show Level: Advanced difficulty with Instrumental ensemble repertoire. Opportunities for Solo performance, student directorship, musical concepts, composing/arranging. Attention given to Music Technology, with an emphasis in Audio and Video recording and production.
 
Successful completion of Advanced Instrumental III is required.
 
Honors Music V is designed for instrumental and vocal students intending to enroll in college as music majors or as non-music majors with a minor in music. In addition to the two areas of study from preceding years, Musical Performance and Music Theory, a third area, Music History will be included.
 
Successful completion of Advanced Instrumental IV or Advanced Choral IV is required and a “B” average is preferred. Students that have completed Advanced Instrumental III or Advanced Choral III with an “A” average after passing an entrance exam, in addition to the recommendation of the teacher, may be included in Honors Music as well, thereby skipping Advanced Instrumental IV or Advanced Choral IV.