BAND 8: Recommended previous elementary/community band experience or private lessons highly recommended.

BAND 9: The basic concepts from Band 8 are built on and expanded. Travel is also a part of this group’s musical experience this year as we will exchange with another school and perform concerts in a 2-3 day trip. Performances in a number of evening concerts comprise a part of the course work. Although the fi nal product is always of high calibre, the most important part of the musical experience is the process to that final product.

BAND 10: All concepts from the previous two years are reviewed and tested. Their first tape assignment is due in May. Performances in a number of evening concerts and a band festival are also part of the course work. Although the final product is always of high calibre, the most important part of the musical experience is the process to that final product.

BAND 11: Highly recommended Band 10 or equivalent training

BAND 12: This is a performance-oriented course, involving a variety of styles including traditional concert band literature as well as pop, rock, and jazz. Technical and theoretical skills continue to be practised through varied repertoires and playing assignments. This group does some extensive travelling in the spring and will be involved in at least one band festival. Although the fi nal product is always of high calibre, the most essential part of the musical experience is the process to that fi nal product. Offered in X Block.

JAZZ BAND 11/12: This is a performance oriented course with a concentration on both a variety of jazz styles (Swing, Rock, Latin, Funk, Blues) and the fundamentals of theory. An opportunity for improvisation is presented with students working on solos at their own speed. Performances in a number of evening concerts and a few jazz band festivals are also part of the course work. Out of school time for sectionals is required. Student’s eligibility for this course is based on discussion with or invitation by the band teacher. Although the final product is always high calibre, the most essential part of the musical experience is the process to that final product
Recommended admission by audition or permission from the band director

CHOIR 8: Choir 8 is an outlet for the creative talents of Grade 8 students. No previous singing experience is necessary, and boys are particularly welcome. Activities include a wide variety of music, movement, some music theory, participation in 3 evening concerts at the school and mini-concerts at the elementary schools in the Argyle area.

CHOIR 9: Students will cover a wide range of material in this course, from traditional to contemporary literature. New students to singing and choir are welcome, specially young men. Some theory is included, and a basic music knowledge helpful, although not required. A January concert tour with the band, three evening concerts and Christmas caroling field trips are part of the course.

CHOIR 10: This course will cover a wide range of choral repertoire from traditional literature to vocal jazz. Students will learn good singing technique, sight singing and some music theory. Newcomers to choirs/singing are most welcome, specially young men. Participation in three evening concerts and a music festival are part of the course.

CHOIR 11: Course combines with Choir 12 - see below

CHOIR 12: These courses (combined to form the “Concert Choir”) are designed to develop advanced skills in choral singing, vocal technique, sight-singing, advanced and varied repertoire. A fall choir retreat, four evening concerts, one festival appearance, and many opportunities to perform within the community are part of this course. An optional spring tour with the Band is also planned. Newcomers to Choir are welcome; please meet with the instructor in advance.

VOCAL ENSEMBLE 11/12: This is an auditioned course requiring advanced vocal skills, good reading abilities, extra-curricular time and many performance opportunities (auditions held in June). A wide variety of choral literature is studied. Students must also be enrolled in Choir 11/12. A fall retreat, four concerts, Cabaret Night, a jazz festival and travel are involved.

STRINGS 8/STRINGS 9/STRINGS 10/STRINGS 11/STRINGS 12: This is a strings performing ensemble for those students who play violin, viola, cello, or string bass. intermediate string playing techniques are introduced and expanded upon. Basic concepts of ensemble and individual performance, theory, ear training, musical styles and conducting are discussed and studied. Performances will be an important aspect of this class in a wide variety of settings. This group may do some travelling in the spring and attend some festivals. Strings classes usually occur once a week at Argyle and once a week at an off-site location. Classes occur outside the regular timetable.

MUSIC COMPOSITION 11: This course is designed for the advanced musician who has some knowledge in music theory (keyboard skills are helpful). It will explore advanced theory, harmony, arranging and composing techniques. Field Trips offered to enrich your musical experience include recording studio/ symphony/ opera (and more). Preparation for music entrance exams to post secondary are also part of the course. Students need to be motivated and disciplined as there are individual long term projects to complete. A great way to round out your musical education at Argyle.