Music
We believe music to be a treasured value, a heritage of centuries, and a portion of everyday living. We hope to meet the needs of students who have musical aspirations in performance and education, as well as those who love music for itself as a source of enjoyment. To theses ends, Mount Saint Mary Academy has developed a unique music curriculum.
Chorale
Year - 5 Credits - All Grades
Open to all students who wish to study and perform various styles of choral literature. Rehearsal time is within the school day. The group sings for many school liturgies and prayer services. Participation in the Christmas and Spring Concert are required. There are also occasional performances outside of school.
Band
Year - 4 Credits - All Grades
Open to intermediate and advanced students who wish to study various styles of music from different eras and perform as a group. Rehearsal time is within the school day. Students perform in the Christmas and Spring Concerts, as well as for school activities. Some music background is required.
Music of the World
one trimester - 1 Credits - Grade 10
This course gives the student knowledge of music history, styles, forms and composers to enhance their listening abilities and enjoyment. Attendance at a live performance is required. Students may indicate their preference for this course, but placement is not guaranteed.
Music in the United States
one trimester - 1 Credits - Grade 10
This is a study of the history of music in the United States and the many personalities involved in making that music, which may be taken in place of Music of the World. Attendance at a live performance is required. Students may indicate their preference for this course but placement is not guaranteed.
Music of the Western World
Year (once per cycle) - 1 Credits - Grades 11, 12
This is an integrated approach to classical and contemporary music from Gregorian Chant to synthesized sound, uniting narrative, visual imagery and music in both performance and notated score. Students of all levels of music experience will grow in their knowledge of music history and their appreciation of many aspects of music.
Music Theory I
Year (once per cycle) - 1 Credits - Grades 10,11,12
A study of the production, recognition and notation of the tonal and rhythmic elements of music through sight-singing, dictation, ear training and keyboard application. Helpful for singers, instrumentalists, and songwriters. Students who are beginners, as well as those who have studied music, may elect to take this course.
Music Theory II
Year (once per cycle) - 1 Credits - Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite Music Theory I .Advanced study of music theory incorporating four-part harmony, analysis and harmonization.
Music Theory II
Year (once per cycle) - 1 Credits - Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Music Theory I. Advanced study of music theory incorporating four-part harmony, analysis and harmonization.
Advanced Music Theory
Year (once per cycle) - 1 Credits - Grade 12
Prerequisite: Music Theory II. An extension of Music Theory II for the serious music student.
Private Lessons
Year - 0 Credits - All Grades
Organ Prerequisite: One year of piano. Lessons are offered in: voice, piano, organ, harp, guitar, woodwind, brass, string and percussion instruments. Arrangements and payment are made for the year before school opens.
Handbell Choir
Year - 0 Credits - All Grades
This group functions as a serious club and meets one day each week after school. Some music reading ability is helpful but not necessary
