Band

This course is designed to give the student an enriching and diverse instrumental music education. This class provides a number of performance opportunities for the student in a variety of settings, including Disneyland. The daily objective of the course is to foster and promote musical growth through the playing of an instrument by the student. As a member of the band program, group effort and cooperation is necessary to a successful program. Band is a skilled effort in which each students expected to show technical and musical growth throughout this course.

Each week throughout the year, the class will cover the following objectives: posture, playing position, breathing, tone quality, intonation, articulation, style, fingerings, syncopation, rhythm, rhythmic precision, dynamics, balance & blend, and phrasing. In addition, students will have weekly musical vocabulary and theory lessons.

Beginning Band: This class is for any student who is new to playing a band instrument. If you have had NO prior music instruction -OR- if you have had LESS THAN 1 year of music instruction, then Beginning Band is the right class for you! All beginning musicians will learn the fundamentals of reading music and playing their instruments in an ensemble.  Beginning Band students perform in three concerts throughout the school year and enjoy an end of the year field trip to Six Flags.  SCUSD provides Band instruments and accessories to all students FREE of charge.

Advanced Band: This class is for students who have had 1 or more FULL years of band experience or private music lessons. The Advanced Band class will pick-up from where the students left off in their prior year(s) of band experience and will continue to be challenged daily in class, and with their at-home practice. Students will prepare, over several months, to perform in several concerts during the school year. Advanced Band students will also have the opportunity to participate in a Disneyland Band Festival, if they desire. SCUSD provides Band instruments and accessories to all students FREE of charge. 

Orchestra: Welcome to 8th Grade Beginning String Orchestra, where musical dreams take flight! This course is designed to introduce students to the beautiful world of string instruments including violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Through engaging lessons, students will learn fundamental techniques such as proper posture, bowing, fingering, and music reading skills. With a focus on ensemble playing, students will discover the joy of making music together as they prepare exciting repertoire ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary favorites. Students will get the opportunity to participate in several concerts and events to showcase their talent!