Introduction to the Arts (multidisciplinary)
This semester interdisciplinary course for freshmen encourages the development of basic applied and perceptual skills through exposure to the visual arts, architecture, music, dance, and drama. Structured experiences in the arts, both on campus and through the Washington Program, are a major aspect of the course. The course offers a weekly tour and is team-taught by arts faculty. (one-half credit)
Introduction to Music Recording
This course will focus on the production aspects of live and recorded music. Students will learn the basics of live recording techniques — studio versus live recording, digital versus analog, linear versus non-linear, production skills (accurate recording, effects, mixing, remixing), and the roles of the composer, arranger, musician, sound engineer, mixer, and producer. By department permission. (One-Half Credit)
Music Theory
This course is designed for students who read music and have instrumental/vocal experience. Focus on the inner workings of music — rhythm, melody, harmony, and form — will help students apply theory to actual listening and performing. By department permission. (One-Half Credit)
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AP Music Theory
This course continues to build upon skills typical of a freshman college course and enables students to create and perform their own compositions. Focus on four-part writing, form, and harmonic analysis will prepare students to take the AP exam. By department permission. Prerequisite: Music Theory. (One Credit)
Religious Thought in Music
This course explores the intersection of religious texts and beliefs with musical forms and themes, from Gregorian Chant through Rock Opera. Students will attend appropriate live performances and discuss how historical masterworks connect to our present experience of faith and musical aesthetics. Works to be studied include Bach's "St. Matthew Passion," Mozart's "Requiem," Webber's "Jesus Christ Superstar," Dunn's "Symphony: Heaven, Earth, Mankind." Meets either Art or Theology requirement. (One-Half Credit)
Concert Choir
Concert Choir is a large ensemble that performs a variety of choral music. Performances in chapel and other School functions are complemented by joint musical projects with the EHS Orchestra and opportunities for involvement at a music festival. Students develop vocal abilities, sight singing skills, and a sense of ensemble. Audition required. (One-Half Credit for full year of participation).
Guitar 1
This class is geared for the total novice and for the student who has some experience with guitar but who has never had formal training. It includes the study of guitar as it relates to music history, note reading and basic theory, and instruction in guitar playing and techniques. Students will see and hear accomplished guitarists in a variety of settings. The student is responsible for supplying his/her own instrument; rental is available. (One-Half Credit)
Guitar 2
This second-semester course builds on the skills learned in the introductory class. Students improve skills by playing with other guitarists and focusing on techniques, rhythm, and note reading. The guitar ensemble students will perform for the Episcopal community. Audition required. By permission of instructor. (One-Half Credit)
Songwriting
In this course, students will learn how to write songs by studying successful songs from the 1960's to the present. All aspects of songwriting will be discussed, including lyrics, form/structure, chord progressions, melody, rhythm, instrumentation, and recording. Students will have the opportunity to record their songs and gain experience in the recording studio. (One-Half Credit)
Orchestra - Fundamentals
This course is for the less-experienced musician wishing to solidify basics of their instrument as well as note and rhythm reading, fingering, articulation and sound production. Students prepare to perform with the EHS Orchestra as well as solo literature and small ensembles. Besides three class meetings each week, the student has a weekly private lesson with EHS faculty or an adjunct instructor. May take course for one semester, moving to Orchestra Winds/Percussion or Strings, or may continue Fundamentals for a full year. Full Year (One Credit)
Advanced Orchestra and Chamber Music
This course is designed for the serious musician with advanced training on their instrument. Students will study advanced literature in the genre of chamber music for regular performance. Expectations include performing in the EHS Orchestra, auditioning for one of the District Honor Ensembles, performing for the student body, and participation in Solo and Ensemble festival. In addition to three class meetings a week, students will attend a private lesson once a week. By department permission. Full Year (One Credit)
Orchestra - Strings
This course is designed for the experienced musician. Besides three class meetings each week, the student has a weekly private lesson with EHS faculty or an adjunct instructor. Students will perform and learn a wide array of music and progress incrementally in basic understanding of music theory and in technique. (Additional fee required, financial aid available.) Full Year (One Credit)
Orchestra - Winds
This course is designed for the experienced musician. Besides three class meetings each week, the student has a weekly private lesson with EHS faculty or an adjunct instructor. Students will perform and learn a wide array of music and progress incrementally in basic understanding of music theory and in technique. (Additional fee required, financial aid available.) Full Year (One Credit)
Advanced Music Recording
This course provides students with in-depth exposure to the techniques used to create a successful multitrack recording, including experience in recording sessions, microphone placement, digital recording, and editing. Through several assignments and two guided multi-track recording projects, students will be provided with an opportunity to reinforce and expand the techniques they mastered in the Introduction to Music Recording course. Prerequisite: Introduction to Music Recording. (One-Half Credit)