Music Curriculum & Instruction

Ancient Music delves into historical approaches and instrumentation employed in early music across diverse regions such as Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. By examining these ancient musical practices, students gain insights into the cultural, social, and artistic dimensions of societies throughout history. This course culminates in two possible projects - a presentation about the traditional music from one particular area of the world, or a composition that mimics the instrumentation, form, melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic characteristics of an ancient culture.

2023

Digital and Electronic Music explores the realm of digital music creation, focusing on mastering various digital audio workstations for composing, recording, editing, and mixing original ideas. The curriculum emphasizes a hands-on approach, providing students with practical skills and knowledge to navigate the intricacies of cutting-edge technology in music production. Through engaging coursework, participants develop a comprehensive understanding of the entire creative process, from conceptualizing innovative musical ideas to refining them through precise editing and achieving a professional mix. By the end of the program, students emerge with a well-rounded understanding that empowers them to express their artistic vision in the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of electronic music.

2022

Emotion in Music serves as an introduction to the field of music cognition, inviting students to explore the profound connections between music, sound, emotional intelligence, and the brain's plasticity. Throughout the course, students explore how listening, performing, and composing influences our emotional life by shaping the malleable brain. The curriculum examines the interplay between musical elements and cognitive processes by culminating in three possible projects - a presentation, composition, or performance - that demonstrates the powerful emotional influence of music.

2021

Through the Decades asks students to trace the evolution of one popular genre through the 1970s - 1990s, and consider how that genre shaped culture at the time. Students research groundbreaking popular artists in each decade and consider how they exerted influence within and beyond the realm of music by examining the politics, social movements, technology, film, television, video games, visual art, fashion, dance, and language of each era. Students prepare a presentation and performance that encompasses their research to emerge with a nuanced appreciation of popular music’s multidimensional influence on the cultural landscape.

2021

21st Century Popular Music provides a comprehensive exploration of mainstream and underground 21st century artists and genres. Students will critically analyze the cultural impact and musical developments of these movements by examining how they reflect and shape contemporary society. Additionally, the curriculum highlights pivotal technological advances that reshaped modern popular music landscape. By scrutinizing the intersection of artistic expression, cultural dynamics, and technological innovation, participants gain a profound understanding of the intricate forces that have propelled popular music into the digital age.

2020

Introduction to Popular Music explores the genesis of modern popular music with a particular focus on the transformative 1950s and 1960s time periods. The unit especially highlights the impact of Rock and Roll by examining the cultural, social, and musical dynamics that fueled this revolutionary genre. Students prepare a performance of iconic songs from the time period while considering the historical roots that laid the foundation of popular music we experience today.

2020

African American Music explores the vital and profound influence of African American musical traditions from the era of slavery to the 1970s. Students examine the rich tapestry of musical innovation that evolved within African American communities, from spirituals and blues to jazz and soul. The curriculum critically examines the social and historical contexts that shaped these musical genres by highlighting their resilience and impact on American and global culture. The unit culminates with performances of significant African American repertoire that left indelible marks on music history and society.

2019

The Birth of Hip Hop explores the beginning of this cultural and musical phenomenon by immersing participants in the fundamental elements of Hip Hop developed in the 1970s and 1980s: rapping, djing, sampling, beatboxing, breakdancing, and graffiti. The curriculum examines each element as both an expressive art form and part of a larger social movement. By exploring the historical context and cultural significance of these early years, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of how Hip Hop evolved into a global cultural force that continues to shape music and society today.

2018

Music in Media investigates the multifaceted role of music across various media platforms, including film, television, video games, and advertising. Students analyze how music enhances storytelling in visual media, and gain insights into techniques employed by composers by participating in scoring and sound design exercises. By the end of the course, students present a theme to their choice of media, demonstrating how music can be used as a powerful narrative tool.

2017

Music Criticism explores the art and skill of evaluating music using established criteria, with a particular focus on multicultural forms, genres, and historical periods. The curriculum introduces the language to analyze and assess musical compositions, such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and lyrical content. Through an examination of disparate musical forms and genres spanning various historical periods and areas of the world, participants develop a discerning ear and a nuanced understanding of how cultural contexts influence musical expression. By the conclusion of the course, students gain the proficiency to construct thoughtful and informed critiques of their peer’s artistic work.

2016

Nations Night is a multicultural unit that explores diverse musical traditions and cultural backgrounds. The unit culminates in an annual Nations Night performance, where students have the opportunity to share and celebrate their personal culture through music, dance, food, and art. Through this experience, participants deepen their understanding of music beyond western traditions and foster a sense of pride and connection to their own heritage.

2015

This course focuses on students' overall vocal abilities by improving vocal technique, ear training, sight-singing, and music literacy skills. Through targeted exercises and personalized coaching, students develop a strong foundation in vocal proficiency. The curriculum supports participants through four annual performances, providing ample opportunities for students to showcase their growing skills and musical talents.

2015

Introduction to Music History traces the evolution of music and art across three eras of western music: the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods. Students delve into the unique characteristics, stylistic shifts, and key developments that define each time period. The curriculum explores how societal, cultural, and artistic changes influenced the composition and expression of music and visual art. The unit culminates in a solo or ensemble performance of one significant work from a chosen time period.

2015

This introductory course covers the fundamentals of music theory, music literacy, and performance skills. Students engage in hands-on practice with a variety of instruments, including the voice, piano, guitar, recorder, and xylophone while developing an understanding of western musical traditions. The unit aims to build a solid foundation for students to build upon, and culminates in a solo or ensemble instrumental performance.

2015