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Description of Courses Offered

Period 2- Concert Choir is the intermediate level of choir at KHS. Audition is required.
Members of Concert Choir will learn techniques to insure correct intonation, breathe support, and
expansion of the students vocal range. These techniques are imperative for ACapella and other
solo opportunities. Musicianship, including note reading and basic keyboard skills are a
component of this class. Level changes, or lack of performance privileges, will occur based on
student progress or lack thereof.

Period 3- Chamber Singers (V) is the most advanced course of vocal music offered within
the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at KHS. Audition is required. Invitation into this
class is an honor and privilege, and with that recognition comes specific responsibilities and
obligations. This course will include components of Choral Ensemble (III) and ACapella Choir
(IV). This course fulfills the University of California and California State University
requirements for admission. This is a two-semester or yearlong course and is comprised of 16-24
of the most advanced singers on campus. This course of study includes choral music literature
covering various style periods not covered in depth in previous choral classes. These styles of
study include: Renaissance, Madrigal, Jazz, Pop-Rock, Spiritual, Gospel, and Swing.
Chamber Singers will expose students to advanced repertoire, requiring the development of
advanced musical skills and knowledge as well as the development of mature work habits and
attitudes. The environment will mirror that of an introductory college ensemble or a preprofessional ensemble. A high level of work ethic is expected. Clear and consistent
communication between the student vocalist, section leaders and the Instructor are key elements
to success. Level changes (or lack of performance privileges) may occur based on student lack of
the required skills, appropriate attitude and behavior, academic music progress, or commitment
(including attendance).

Periods 4 & 5- String Orchestra

There are 2 levels of String Orchestra this year. Skill demonstration is required for correct
placement. Groups will be assigned based on the students ability level. The basic course
(4th period) will be for new players and players who need more work on rudimentary skills: like
posture, playing in tune, scales and sight reading. The upper level course (5th period) will be for
intermediate to advanced students and will have a more rigorous performance component. Both
levels of String Orchestra are UC approved, and can be taken for 4 years. The major focus of the
program is development of the basic concepts of playing a string instrument (violin, viola, cello,
bass), including understanding melody, harmony and rhythm, and blending individual abilities
into a group performance. Students will learn to perceive, perform, appreciate and evaluate their
own performance, and that of their peers and other musicians. Fundamentals will be reinforced
daily. After school rehearsals and performances, will be announced in advance, and will be
required.

Period 6- Mixed Chorus is the entry level and basic course of choir at KHS. No musical
experience is necessary, but vocal demonstration is required for correct placement. Mixed
Chorus provides the students with an introduction to the extensive field of study of
music. This will include an introduction to literature written for unison, two, and threepart harmony. Level changes may occur based on student progress. Mixed Chorus is a
performance-based course, which requires rehearsals and performance time outside of
classroom instruction. Though these rehearsals and performances are few in number, they
will be announced and will be mandatory.