Taught by Shalandra Royal
This course provides students with a comprehensive musical education through four key areas: Music
Theory, Music History, Choir Performance, and Music Business. Students will develop technical skills in
music notation, sight-singing, and composition while exploring the historical and cultural development
of music. Additionally, students will learn about the business side of the music industry, including
careers in performance, composition, production, marketing, and management.
Through choir rehearsals and live performances, students will develop their vocal abilities and stage
presence while working collaboratively as a vocal ensemble. This course is ideal for students interested
in music performance, composition, production, or the business of music.
Over the course of the year students will learn:
Introduction to Music Theory
This course provides students with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of music theory. Through
interactive lessons, listening exercises, and creative activities, students will develop a deeper
understanding of how music is constructed and notated. Topics covered include pitch, rhythm, scales, key
signatures, intervals, chords, harmony, and basic composition.
Students will learn the foundations to read and write music, analyze musical structures, and develop
their ear training skills. By the end of the course, students will have the tools to compose their own
basic melodies and harmonies, preparing them for further study in music.
No prior music experience is required, just a passion for learning and an appreciation for music!
Course Objectives:
- Understand and apply music notation, including notes, rests, and rhythms
- Identify and construct scales, key signatures, and intervals
- Recognize and build chords and basic harmonic progressions
- Develop ear training and sight-singing skills
Prerequisites: None
Introduction to Music History
This course takes students on a journey through the rich history of music, exploring its evolution from
ancient times to the Classical period. Students will study key musical developments, influential
composers, and cultural movements that shaped music over the centuries. Through listening exercises,
discussions, and research projects, students will develop a deeper appreciation for how music reflects
and influences society.
Topics include the music of early civilizations, medieval chant, Renaissance polyphony, Baroque
innovation, and the refinement of form and structure in the Classical era. Students will analyze musical
works, explore historical contexts, and discover how past traditions continue to shape modern music.
Course Objectives:
- Understand the historical development of Western music from ancient times to the classical period
- Recognize key composers, musical styles, and significant works from each era
- Analyze how historical events and cultural movements influenced music
- Develop listening skills to identify characteristics of different musical periods
- Explore connections between historical music and contemporary genres
Prerequisites: None
Recommended For: Any student interested in music, history, or the arts, whether as a performer, listener,
or scholar.
Choir
This course is designed for students who love to sing and want to develop their vocal and musical skills
in a supportive and collaborative environment. Students will explore a diverse repertoire of choral
music, ranging from classical and folk to contemporary and multicultural pieces. Through regular
rehearsals, vocal exercises, and performance opportunities, students will improve their vocal technique,
music reading, and ensemble skills.
In choir students are expected to learn proper breathing, diction, and vocal production, and will study
basic music theory and ear training to enhance their musicianship. Choir members will have the
opportunity to perform at school concerts, community events, and festivals, fostering confidence and a
strong sense of teamwork.
Course Objectives:
- Develop proper vocal technique, including breath control and tone production
- Learn to read choral music and follow a conductor’s direction
- Explore and perform a variety of musical styles and genres
- Strengthen musicianship through ear training and sight-singing
- Build confidence and teamwork through group performances
Prerequisites: None – all levels of experience are welcome!
Recommended For: Any student who enjoys singing and wants to be part of a dynamic and creative musical
ensemble.
Introduction to Music Business
This course provides students with an in-depth look at the music industry, exploring how music is
created, marketed, distributed, and monetized in today’s world. Students will learn about key aspects of
the business, including artist management, music publishing, copyright laws, recording contracts,
concert promotion, and digital streaming.
Through real-world case studies, guest speakers, and hands-on projects, students will gain practical
knowledge of how the music industry operates and how artists build successful careers. The course will
also cover entrepreneurship in music, helping students understand branding, networking, and financial
planning for musicians.
Course Objectives:
- Understand the structure of the modern music industry, including key roles and business models
- Explore copyright, intellectual property, and legal aspects of music ownership
- Learn about marketing, branding, and social media strategies for musicians
- Analyze how artists generate revenue through recordings, performances, and licensing
- Develop skills in concert promotion, tour planning, and artist management
- Gain insight into independent and major label music careers
Prerequisites: None
Recommended For: Students interested in music careers, entrepreneurship, or behind-the-scenes roles in
the entertainment industry.