Bremen High School Music Course Descriptions
Instrumental Courses
Performing instrumental classes include, as part of the course of study, performances and practice sessions which occur outside of the regularly scheduled school day. Student attendance at these performances and rehearsals is considered a part of the course requirements and is a grade component.011
BAND 1 - BEGINNING INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE
Beginning instrumental ensemble is an introductory level class, which is designed for the student with little or no previous musical experience. Basic instruction in note reading, music terminology, and musical performance on selected band instruments is provided for students electing the class. Instruments selected for study may be available from the band inventory, or may be student-owned.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
022 BAND 2 - INTERMEDIATE BAND
Band 2 is an intermediate level ensemble that is designed for students with minimal experience. The course represents level two of five levels of instrumental music classes. Placement in Band 2 will be determined by testing and recommendation of the director. All students enrolled in Band 2 will participate in combined marching band practice/performance activities in the fall. The course offers a pass/grade option.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 9, 10, (11, 12)
Prerequisite: Completion of Band 1 and/or director recommendation
012 BAND 3 – CONCERT BAND
Band 3 is a performance ensemble designed for the student having previously developed musical performance skills. The course represents level three of five levels of instrumental music classes. Placement in Band 3 will be determined by testing and the recommendation of the director. All students enrolled in Band 3 will participate in combined marching band practice/ performance activities in the fall. The course offers a pass/grade option.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 9, (10, 11, 12)
Prerequisite: Completion of Band 2 and/or director recommendation
031 OPTION #1 - SYMPHONIC BAND - REGULAR CREDIT
Symphonic Band is a select (by audition), performance-oriented instrumental ensemble. Symphonic Band represents the highest level of instrumental music classes. Placement in Symphonic Band will be determined by testing and the recommendation of the director. Symphonic Band course content emphasizes the development of group performance techniques, and advanced individual performance skills. Composition, form and analysis, basic research and music theory are required and presented in an instrumental music perspective. Review/analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature is also required. Students will be expected to complete a major term project. All students enrolled in Symphonic Band will participate in combined marching band practice/performance activities in the fall. The course offers a pass/grade option. If selected, a student may enroll in Symphonic Band each of his/her four years of high school attendance.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: (9, 10), 11, 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Band 3 and/or director recommendation
037 OPTION #2 – HONORS SYMPHONIC BAND
Honors Symphonic Band curriculum option offers students expanded opportunities for the development of performance and performance-related capabilities. Students enrolled in the honors credit course option will be expected to complete all requirements for the regular course as well as the following special course components: 1) the student will be enrolled in an ongoing program of private instruction for a minimum of three lessons per month (alternatives: music theory programmed insurrection, college-level course work, etc.); 2) completion of a major term project: a research paper, a musical composition, a review/analysis of performances) and/or performance literature; 3) completion of performance proficiency level four of the Symphonic Band curriculum. Students are required to audition for the IMEA District I Ensembles and perform a solo or small group recital.
Credit: 1 – Honors
Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous instrumental music courses with a grade average of "B", audition
and/or music theory test, and teacher recommendation.
033 OPTION #1 - JAZZ ENSEMBLE - REGULAR CREDIT
Jazz Ensemble is a select (by audition), performance-based ensemble of vocalists and/or instrumentalists. Traditional and contemporary scores including swing, blues, rock and Latin are researched, studied and performed with emphasis placed upon stylistic treatment, advanced instrumental techniques, and advanced musicianship. Composition, form and analysis, advanced research and music theory are required and presented in an instrumental music perspective. Review/analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature is also required. Students will be expected to complete a major term project. Public performances are utilized as an outgrowth and culmination of the classroom learning situation. Placement in Jazz Ensemble will be determined by performance audition.
Credit: Level: Prerequisite:
1 – Regular
9, 10, 11, 12
None, but no student may enroll in the course without prior testing and the recommendation of the director.
039 OPTION #2 – HONORS JAZZ ENSEMBLE
The Honors Jazz Ensemble curriculum option offers student expanded opportunities for the development of performance and performance-related capabilities. Students enrolled in the honors credit course option will be expected to complete all requirements for the regular course as well as the following special course components: 1) the student will be enrolled in an ongoing program of private instruction for a minimum of three lessons per month (alternatives: music theory programmed instruction, college-level course work, etc.); 2) completion of a major term project: a research paper, a musical composition, a review/analysis of performances) and/or performance literature; 3) completion of performance proficiency level four of the Jazz Ensemble curriculum, and 4) completion of the advanced level cognitive skills unit of the Jazz Ensemble curriculum. Students are required to audition for the IMEA District I Ensembles and perform a solo or small group recital.
Credit: 1 – Honors
Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous instrumental music courses with a grade average of "B", audition
and/or music theory test, and teacher recommendation.
VOCAL COURSES
Performing vocal classes include, as part of the course of study, performances and practice sessions which occur outside of the regularly scheduled day. Student attendance at these performances and rehearsals is considered a part of the course requirements and is a grade component.
013 MIXED CHORUS 1
Mixed Chorus is an entry-level choral ensemble for male and female students. Although Mixed Chorus is primarily intended as a freshman training ensemble, any sophomore, junior, or senior may enroll in the course. Mixed Chorus course content will include preparatory voice training and ensemble experience leading to participation in Concert Choir. Students may be asked to sing in a public performance each semester. A student may enroll in Mixed Chorus in any two years of his/her high school attendance.
Credit: 1 – Regular Level: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None
023 MIXED CHORUS 2
Mixed Chorus 2 is an intermediate level performing ensemble. The course represents level two of three levels of vocal music classes. Placement in Mixed Chorus 2 will be determined by testing and recommendation of the director. Mixed Chorus 2 course content will include extended preparatory voice training including both ensemble and solo experiences leading to participation in Concert Choir. Students will be required to perform in several public performances each semester. A student may enroll in Mixed Chorus 2 in any two years of his/her high school attendance.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 9, 10, (11, 12)
Prerequisite: Completion of Mixed Chorus 1 and/or recommendation of the director.
032 OPTION #1 - CONCERT CHOIR - REGULAR CREDIT
Concert Choir is a select (by audition), performance-oriented choral ensemble for male and female students. Placement in Concert Choir will be determined by testing and the recommendation of the director. Concert Choir course content emphasizes the development of group performance techniques and advanced individual performance skills. Students will be expected to complete sight singing activities, form and analysis, basic research and music theory. Review/analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature is also required. Students will be expected to complete a major term project. Students will sing at least one public performance each semester. The course offers a pass/grade option. If selected, a student may enroll in Concert Choir each of his/her four years of high school attendance.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: (9, 10), 11, 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Mixed Chorus and/or recommendation of the director.
038 OPTION #2 - CONCERT CHOIR - HONORS CREDIT
The Honors Concert Choir curriculum option offers students expanded opportunities for the development of performance and/or performance-related capabilities. Students enrolled in the honors credit course option will be expected to complete all requirements for the regular course as well as the following special course requirements: 1) the student will be enrolled in an ongoing program of private instruction for a minimum of three lessons per month (Alternatives: music theory programmed instruction, college level course work, etc.); 2) completion of a major term project: a research paper, a musical composition, a review/analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature; 3) completion of a performance proficiency level four of the Concert Choir curriculum, and 4) completion of the advanced level cognitive skills unit – of the Concert Choir curriculum. Students are required to audition for the IMEA District I Ensembles and perform a solo or small group recital.
Credit: 1 – Honors
Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous instrumental music courses with a grade average of "B", audition
and/or music theory test, and teacher recommendation.
043 VOCAL SHOW ENSEMBLE
Vocal Show Ensemble is a select (by audition), performance-based music ensemble of male and female students. Traditional and contemporary literature including swing, jazz, pop, blues, gospel, and urban are researched, studied and performed with emphasis placed upon stylistic treatment, advanced vocal techniques and advanced musicianship. Movement, dance, drama and choreography are essential components of this course. Composition, form and analysis and music theory are required and presented from a vocal perspective. Review/analysis of performance and/or performance literature is also required. Students will review and analyze contemporary literature and complete both oral and written critiques of performances. Public performances are utilized as an outgrowth and culmination of the classroom learning experience. Placement in Vocal Show Ensemble will be determined by performance audition.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: (9) 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Audition/Recommendation of Director
044 HONORS VOCAL SHOW ENSEMBLE
Honors Vocal Show Ensemble is a select (by audition), performance-based music ensemble of male and female students. Traditional and contemporary literature including swing, jazz, pop, blues, gospel, and urban are researched, studied and performed with emphasis placed upon stylistic treatment, advanced vocal techniques and advanced musicianship. Movement, dance, drama and choreography are essential components of this course. The Honors Vocal Show Ensemble curriculum option offers students expanded opportunities for the development of performance and/or performance-related capabilities. Students enrolled in the honors credit course option will be expected to complete all requirements for the regular course as well as the following special course requirements: 1) the student will be scheduled in an after school program of private instruction (Alternative: private lessons with outside instructor, music theory programmed instruction, college level course work); 2) completion of a major term project; a research paper, a musical composition, a solo recital, and/or an analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature; 3) completion of a performance proficiency level four of the vocal music curriculum, and 4) completion of the advanced level cognitive skills unit of the music curriculum.
Credit: 1 – Honors
Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Audition/Recommendation of Director
Music Technology & American Music Courses
040 AUDIO ENGINEERING I
Audio Engineering is a single-semester course designed to provide students with training in audio engineering and electronic music production. This class will provide instruction in digital audio workstations focusing on MIDI production, sequencing, manipulation and development of audio loops, vocal tuning, digital audio recording, sound production, studio recording techniques, software manipulation, and mixing techniques in a creative studio environment. Fundamental aspects of working in the mixing phase of record production are topics of study and practice, including: sound aesthetics and balance priorities, signal flow and routing concepts, signal processing types and their mix-specific applications. The utilization of computer concepts and studio recording applications are balanced with student creativity to produce electronic musical projects utilizing industry standard software applications.
Credit: 1/2 – Regular
Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisite: None
042 AUDIO ENGINEERING II
Audio Engineering II is a full-year course designed to provide students with advanced training in audio engineering and electronic music production. This course serves to provide the student with an applied, practical environment to work with advanced audio mixing techniques using concepts identified in computer-based recording and mixing set-ups identified in the curriculum. Skills will be developed that will enable the student to work in an audio mixing environment at the intermediate level. This course represents the second year of study, and is designed to enable students to evolve individually, and as a group, toward the utilization of sound engineering technology in a professional setting. Students will utilize audio engineering skills and techniques acquired in the classroom and apply these techniques in a pre-determined audio recording or live sound reinforcement situation. Study in this course will prepare students to take the Pro Tools 110 Exam.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Audio Engineering I with a grade of C or better.
045 AMERICAN MUSIC
The American Music course is a one semester fine arts elective intended for tenth through twelfth grade students. During the course students will study what are regarded as the periods of American music. This course will expose students to the music of America and also build on the basics of musicianship. Content includes an overview of the relationship between history and music through important figures and compelling stories of the icons that define certain trends and periods. The course is inclusive of a survey of the history, culture, and literature of music in the United States from the early 17th through late 20th centuries. Folk, popular, and concert music will be examined in the context of a developing American musical tradition as well as in relation to social, political, and cultural issues in American history. The course will explore the intersections between American cultural and musical life. Although the body of the course will focus on music between the Civil War and the 1970s, we will investigate the role of music in a wide variety of America's defining moments. These range from the search for an American symphony, to rap and hip-hop culture. We will also examine music's role in such movements as Prohibition, Abolition, and the Harlem Renaissance.
Credit: 1⁄2 —Regular
Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisites: None
Instrumental Courses
Performing instrumental classes include, as part of the course of study, performances and practice sessions which occur outside of the regularly scheduled school day. Student attendance at these performances and rehearsals is considered a part of the course requirements and is a grade component.011
BAND 1 - BEGINNING INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE
Beginning instrumental ensemble is an introductory level class, which is designed for the student with little or no previous musical experience. Basic instruction in note reading, music terminology, and musical performance on selected band instruments is provided for students electing the class. Instruments selected for study may be available from the band inventory, or may be student-owned.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None
022 BAND 2 - INTERMEDIATE BAND
Band 2 is an intermediate level ensemble that is designed for students with minimal experience. The course represents level two of five levels of instrumental music classes. Placement in Band 2 will be determined by testing and recommendation of the director. All students enrolled in Band 2 will participate in combined marching band practice/performance activities in the fall. The course offers a pass/grade option.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 9, 10, (11, 12)
Prerequisite: Completion of Band 1 and/or director recommendation
012 BAND 3 – CONCERT BAND
Band 3 is a performance ensemble designed for the student having previously developed musical performance skills. The course represents level three of five levels of instrumental music classes. Placement in Band 3 will be determined by testing and the recommendation of the director. All students enrolled in Band 3 will participate in combined marching band practice/ performance activities in the fall. The course offers a pass/grade option.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 9, (10, 11, 12)
Prerequisite: Completion of Band 2 and/or director recommendation
031 OPTION #1 - SYMPHONIC BAND - REGULAR CREDIT
Symphonic Band is a select (by audition), performance-oriented instrumental ensemble. Symphonic Band represents the highest level of instrumental music classes. Placement in Symphonic Band will be determined by testing and the recommendation of the director. Symphonic Band course content emphasizes the development of group performance techniques, and advanced individual performance skills. Composition, form and analysis, basic research and music theory are required and presented in an instrumental music perspective. Review/analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature is also required. Students will be expected to complete a major term project. All students enrolled in Symphonic Band will participate in combined marching band practice/performance activities in the fall. The course offers a pass/grade option. If selected, a student may enroll in Symphonic Band each of his/her four years of high school attendance.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: (9, 10), 11, 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Band 3 and/or director recommendation
037 OPTION #2 – HONORS SYMPHONIC BAND
Honors Symphonic Band curriculum option offers students expanded opportunities for the development of performance and performance-related capabilities. Students enrolled in the honors credit course option will be expected to complete all requirements for the regular course as well as the following special course components: 1) the student will be enrolled in an ongoing program of private instruction for a minimum of three lessons per month (alternatives: music theory programmed insurrection, college-level course work, etc.); 2) completion of a major term project: a research paper, a musical composition, a review/analysis of performances) and/or performance literature; 3) completion of performance proficiency level four of the Symphonic Band curriculum. Students are required to audition for the IMEA District I Ensembles and perform a solo or small group recital.
Credit: 1 – Honors
Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous instrumental music courses with a grade average of "B", audition
and/or music theory test, and teacher recommendation.
033 OPTION #1 - JAZZ ENSEMBLE - REGULAR CREDIT
Jazz Ensemble is a select (by audition), performance-based ensemble of vocalists and/or instrumentalists. Traditional and contemporary scores including swing, blues, rock and Latin are researched, studied and performed with emphasis placed upon stylistic treatment, advanced instrumental techniques, and advanced musicianship. Composition, form and analysis, advanced research and music theory are required and presented in an instrumental music perspective. Review/analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature is also required. Students will be expected to complete a major term project. Public performances are utilized as an outgrowth and culmination of the classroom learning situation. Placement in Jazz Ensemble will be determined by performance audition.
Credit: Level: Prerequisite:
1 – Regular
9, 10, 11, 12
None, but no student may enroll in the course without prior testing and the recommendation of the director.
039 OPTION #2 – HONORS JAZZ ENSEMBLE
The Honors Jazz Ensemble curriculum option offers student expanded opportunities for the development of performance and performance-related capabilities. Students enrolled in the honors credit course option will be expected to complete all requirements for the regular course as well as the following special course components: 1) the student will be enrolled in an ongoing program of private instruction for a minimum of three lessons per month (alternatives: music theory programmed instruction, college-level course work, etc.); 2) completion of a major term project: a research paper, a musical composition, a review/analysis of performances) and/or performance literature; 3) completion of performance proficiency level four of the Jazz Ensemble curriculum, and 4) completion of the advanced level cognitive skills unit of the Jazz Ensemble curriculum. Students are required to audition for the IMEA District I Ensembles and perform a solo or small group recital.
Credit: 1 – Honors
Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous instrumental music courses with a grade average of "B", audition
and/or music theory test, and teacher recommendation.
VOCAL COURSES
Performing vocal classes include, as part of the course of study, performances and practice sessions which occur outside of the regularly scheduled day. Student attendance at these performances and rehearsals is considered a part of the course requirements and is a grade component.
013 MIXED CHORUS 1
Mixed Chorus is an entry-level choral ensemble for male and female students. Although Mixed Chorus is primarily intended as a freshman training ensemble, any sophomore, junior, or senior may enroll in the course. Mixed Chorus course content will include preparatory voice training and ensemble experience leading to participation in Concert Choir. Students may be asked to sing in a public performance each semester. A student may enroll in Mixed Chorus in any two years of his/her high school attendance.
Credit: 1 – Regular Level: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None
023 MIXED CHORUS 2
Mixed Chorus 2 is an intermediate level performing ensemble. The course represents level two of three levels of vocal music classes. Placement in Mixed Chorus 2 will be determined by testing and recommendation of the director. Mixed Chorus 2 course content will include extended preparatory voice training including both ensemble and solo experiences leading to participation in Concert Choir. Students will be required to perform in several public performances each semester. A student may enroll in Mixed Chorus 2 in any two years of his/her high school attendance.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 9, 10, (11, 12)
Prerequisite: Completion of Mixed Chorus 1 and/or recommendation of the director.
032 OPTION #1 - CONCERT CHOIR - REGULAR CREDIT
Concert Choir is a select (by audition), performance-oriented choral ensemble for male and female students. Placement in Concert Choir will be determined by testing and the recommendation of the director. Concert Choir course content emphasizes the development of group performance techniques and advanced individual performance skills. Students will be expected to complete sight singing activities, form and analysis, basic research and music theory. Review/analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature is also required. Students will be expected to complete a major term project. Students will sing at least one public performance each semester. The course offers a pass/grade option. If selected, a student may enroll in Concert Choir each of his/her four years of high school attendance.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: (9, 10), 11, 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Mixed Chorus and/or recommendation of the director.
038 OPTION #2 - CONCERT CHOIR - HONORS CREDIT
The Honors Concert Choir curriculum option offers students expanded opportunities for the development of performance and/or performance-related capabilities. Students enrolled in the honors credit course option will be expected to complete all requirements for the regular course as well as the following special course requirements: 1) the student will be enrolled in an ongoing program of private instruction for a minimum of three lessons per month (Alternatives: music theory programmed instruction, college level course work, etc.); 2) completion of a major term project: a research paper, a musical composition, a review/analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature; 3) completion of a performance proficiency level four of the Concert Choir curriculum, and 4) completion of the advanced level cognitive skills unit – of the Concert Choir curriculum. Students are required to audition for the IMEA District I Ensembles and perform a solo or small group recital.
Credit: 1 – Honors
Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous instrumental music courses with a grade average of "B", audition
and/or music theory test, and teacher recommendation.
043 VOCAL SHOW ENSEMBLE
Vocal Show Ensemble is a select (by audition), performance-based music ensemble of male and female students. Traditional and contemporary literature including swing, jazz, pop, blues, gospel, and urban are researched, studied and performed with emphasis placed upon stylistic treatment, advanced vocal techniques and advanced musicianship. Movement, dance, drama and choreography are essential components of this course. Composition, form and analysis and music theory are required and presented from a vocal perspective. Review/analysis of performance and/or performance literature is also required. Students will review and analyze contemporary literature and complete both oral and written critiques of performances. Public performances are utilized as an outgrowth and culmination of the classroom learning experience. Placement in Vocal Show Ensemble will be determined by performance audition.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: (9) 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Audition/Recommendation of Director
044 HONORS VOCAL SHOW ENSEMBLE
Honors Vocal Show Ensemble is a select (by audition), performance-based music ensemble of male and female students. Traditional and contemporary literature including swing, jazz, pop, blues, gospel, and urban are researched, studied and performed with emphasis placed upon stylistic treatment, advanced vocal techniques and advanced musicianship. Movement, dance, drama and choreography are essential components of this course. The Honors Vocal Show Ensemble curriculum option offers students expanded opportunities for the development of performance and/or performance-related capabilities. Students enrolled in the honors credit course option will be expected to complete all requirements for the regular course as well as the following special course requirements: 1) the student will be scheduled in an after school program of private instruction (Alternative: private lessons with outside instructor, music theory programmed instruction, college level course work); 2) completion of a major term project; a research paper, a musical composition, a solo recital, and/or an analysis of performance(s) and/or performance literature; 3) completion of a performance proficiency level four of the vocal music curriculum, and 4) completion of the advanced level cognitive skills unit of the music curriculum.
Credit: 1 – Honors
Level: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Audition/Recommendation of Director
Music Technology & American Music Courses
040 AUDIO ENGINEERING I
Audio Engineering is a single-semester course designed to provide students with training in audio engineering and electronic music production. This class will provide instruction in digital audio workstations focusing on MIDI production, sequencing, manipulation and development of audio loops, vocal tuning, digital audio recording, sound production, studio recording techniques, software manipulation, and mixing techniques in a creative studio environment. Fundamental aspects of working in the mixing phase of record production are topics of study and practice, including: sound aesthetics and balance priorities, signal flow and routing concepts, signal processing types and their mix-specific applications. The utilization of computer concepts and studio recording applications are balanced with student creativity to produce electronic musical projects utilizing industry standard software applications.
Credit: 1/2 – Regular
Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisite: None
042 AUDIO ENGINEERING II
Audio Engineering II is a full-year course designed to provide students with advanced training in audio engineering and electronic music production. This course serves to provide the student with an applied, practical environment to work with advanced audio mixing techniques using concepts identified in computer-based recording and mixing set-ups identified in the curriculum. Skills will be developed that will enable the student to work in an audio mixing environment at the intermediate level. This course represents the second year of study, and is designed to enable students to evolve individually, and as a group, toward the utilization of sound engineering technology in a professional setting. Students will utilize audio engineering skills and techniques acquired in the classroom and apply these techniques in a pre-determined audio recording or live sound reinforcement situation. Study in this course will prepare students to take the Pro Tools 110 Exam.
Credit: 1 – Regular
Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Audio Engineering I with a grade of C or better.
045 AMERICAN MUSIC
The American Music course is a one semester fine arts elective intended for tenth through twelfth grade students. During the course students will study what are regarded as the periods of American music. This course will expose students to the music of America and also build on the basics of musicianship. Content includes an overview of the relationship between history and music through important figures and compelling stories of the icons that define certain trends and periods. The course is inclusive of a survey of the history, culture, and literature of music in the United States from the early 17th through late 20th centuries. Folk, popular, and concert music will be examined in the context of a developing American musical tradition as well as in relation to social, political, and cultural issues in American history. The course will explore the intersections between American cultural and musical life. Although the body of the course will focus on music between the Civil War and the 1970s, we will investigate the role of music in a wide variety of America's defining moments. These range from the search for an American symphony, to rap and hip-hop culture. We will also examine music's role in such movements as Prohibition, Abolition, and the Harlem Renaissance.
Credit: 1⁄2 —Regular
Level: 10 – 12
Prerequisites: None