Music
Music Arts Concentration
Program Philosophy
A variety of musical opportunities are available to students at BHS. Students participate in band, choir and full orchestra, large and small vocal and instrumental jazz ensembles. A variety of other performance opportunities are offered which include solo and ensemble contests, a variety show and an annual musical. Voice and instrumental private and small-group lessons are available. Students are challenged academically in such courses as Advanced Placement Music Theory, Classical Music Listening and American Popular Music. A state-of-the-art facility and music technology provide an inspirational space and the tools needed to encourage and develop high quality musicianship.
The music program at BHS is designed to promote the serious study of many different styles of music to all interested students. The objectives are to study and/or perform the finest music literature possible. Students in performance classes will perform at concerts, festivals, selected athletic events, civic and community functions and various other occasions. All bands and choirs are scheduled opposite each other so some students wishing to participate in both will have the opportunity to do so. MUSIC PERFORMANCE CLASSES ARE A YEAR LONG COMMITMENT (Varsity Choir is Terms 2-4 only).
Class Schedule
COURSES for the concentration
You must take these classes before you take any of the courses listed below.
- Arts Infused Foundations (2 terms)
Music majors are required to be in a performance ensemble all 4 years and for the full time commitment of each class. These include:
9th grade (must chose at least one of these)
- Orchestra
- Applied Contemporary Music (formerly garage band)
- Freshman Band and/ OR Freshman Choir
10th - 12th grade (must chose at least one of these)
- Orchestra
- Applied Contemporary Music (formerly garage band)
- Varsity Band and/ OR Choir
OR
- Concert Band and/ OR Choir
Seniors are required to take
- Classical Music Listening
- Advance Placement (AP) Music theory
ELECTIVE CHOICES
- Music in America
- Applied Contemporary Music (formerly garage band) for those students also in another performance ensemble.
SENIOR PROJECT
During their senior year students will complete a series of works and produce a senior concert. Students will also have the opportunity to work with professional artists in their area of interest. Internships and mentorship experiences will be arranged as available.
DEAR PARENT - It is our desire that students will be able to take all of the courses recommended for completing the concentration. However, the master schedule at BHS is driven by student enrollment through the registration process. On a rare occasion a course might not be offered because the enrollment is not sufficient to offer the course. If that occurs, the Arts Magnet administrator will meet with the student to explore the alternatives available to meet this requirement and provide a unique experience.
