Cantabile Choir
Open to Grades 10–12 by audition
This choir will meet every other day all year long during the same period as Concert Band.
1.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Audition with instructor
Cantabile Choir is the most advanced vocal performing ensemble at Waconia High School and is predominantly for singers in Grades 11 and 12. Cantabile Choir students will have an advanced understanding of the written language of music and a command of the singing voice. Cantabile Choir is designed for students to develop music understanding/appreciation through singing and to develop their musicianship and singing skills through performing all types of vocal literature. Performance opportunities include concerts, contests, festivals, tours, and special school and community events. Attendance at all choir performances is mandatory. Opportunities will be given for solo and ensemble work (i.e., pop groups, chamber singers, jazz singers). Student grades will be based on ability level, participation, lessons, tests, and member citizenship. Expectations include a desire to sing and improve as a musician, a positive attitude, self-discipline, cooperation, and lesson/sectional attendance outside of choir time.
Concert Choir
Open to Grades 9 and 10 by audition
This choir will meet every other day all year long during the same period as Symphonic Band.
1.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Audition with instructor
Concert Choir is predominantly for singers in Grades 9 and 10. Concert Choir students will have a basic understanding of the written language of music and a basic understanding and command of the singing voice. The choir is designed to develop music understanding and appreciation through performing all types of vocal literature. Concert Choir will perform at concerts throughout the year. Attendance at all performances of the choir is mandatory. Opportunities will be given for solo and ensemble work. Student grades will be based on ability level, participation, lessons, tests, and member citizenship. Expectations include a desire to sing and improve as a musician, a positive attitude, self-discipline, cooperation, and lesson attendance outside of choir time.
Varsity Choir
Open to Grades 9 and 10
This choir will meet every other day all year long during the same period as Freshmen Band.
1.5 Credits
Prerequisite: Audition with instructor
Varsity Choir is predominantly for singers in Grades 9 and 10. Varsity Choir students will have a basic understanding of the written language of music and a desire to sing. The choir is designed to develop healthy vocal production through proper breathing, posture, and resonance. A great deal of time will be spent on basic music theory and sight singing exercises. Varsity Choir will perform at concerts throughout the year. Attendance at all performances of the choir is mandatory. Opportunities will be given for solo and ensemble work. This is a participation-centered class on which 80% of the grade is based; 20% of the grade is based on sight reading and test scores. Expectations include a desire to sing and improve as a musician, a positive attitude, self-discipline, cooperation, and lesson/sectional attendance outside of choir time.
Music Theory
Open to Grades 10–12
1 Trimester Period, 1 Credit
Prerequisite: None
This course is designed for the student who is interested in expanding his or her knowledge of the written aspects of music, including harmonic structure. The course includes the study of all the fundamentals of music theory and the development of listening skills. Physics of sound, sound production, recording industry, software, computer sequencing, computer transcription, composition, midi, recording, and sound techniques will also be discussed.
Music Appreciation
Open to Grades 10–12
1 Trimester Period, 1 Credit
Prerequisite: None
Music is a part of everyday life. This course will introduce students to the different styles of music available (pop, jazz, classical, film, etc.) and how this music can be a tool for enjoyment and relaxation. Students will develop listening skills to help in distinguishing quality performances as well as knowledge about choosing quality recordings or attending the best concerts. This course is designed for students with no musical background.