1st Period Orchestra (repeatable for credit)

This orchestra is the entry-level course for students who participated in their middle school orchestra or band program. Students continue their studies on string, wind, brass and percussion instruments with intermediate exercises in breathing, tone production, rhythm, intonation, and musicianship. The Intermediate Orchestra performs repertoire from MENC grades 2-3, and will combine with the 8th period Orchestra for several pieces at the Fall and Spring Instrumental Music Concerts.The Intermediate Orchestra performs works from the baroque, classical, romantic and 20th century repertoires, and will perform at the CMEA festival in spring of 2010. Students receive their Fine Arts Credit for taking this course.

Grade Levels: Recommeded for freshmen and students involved in sports after school. Prerequisites: None

8th Period Orchestra (repeatable for credit)

This is the advanced orchestra for which an audition is required to participate. Auditions are held at the beginning of Fall Semester, and again in December for the following Spring Semester. Students develop technical mastery in all aspects of ensemble playing, including tone production, intonation, rhythmic execution, and musicianship. The Advanced Orchestra performs works from the baroque, classical, romantic and 20th century repertoire from MENC grades 4-5, and will perform at the CMEA festival in the spring of 2010. Students receive their Fine Arts credit for taking this course.

Grade Levels: 10-12. Prerequisites: Audition.

Meeting Times: Mondays 2:45-6pm (Sectionals) & Wednesdays 2:45-4:30 (Tutti)

 

8th Period Jazz Band

The Jazz Band is open to all students in either 1st or 8th period Orchestra; audition required. The Jazz Band performs at the Fall and Spring Instrumental Concerts. Up to seven 10-12 grade students from the Jazz Band will also be invited to join an advanced Jazz Combo which performs at the Fall and Spring Instrumental Music Concerts, the Radio Show and various locations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area community.

Grade Levels: 9-12 (Jazz Combo 10-12). Prerequisites: Must be a member of 1st or 8th period orchestra; Audition.

Meeting Times: Thursdays 2:45-4:45 (Jazz Combo meets separately at a time TBA)

 

Pep Band

All wind, brass and percussion players from the Jazz Band are required to play at four specified games each semester. Repertoire includes top rock'n'roll hits from the 1950s - present!