Instrumental Music

Music Courses:

Marching Band

Marching Band is open to any student demonstrating Level II proficiency or higher of this Fresno Unified course of study and appropriate California Music Standards. Students in this course will develop their skills in reading music, performance of band instruments and basic music theory. Regular practices, public performances and competitions after school, at night and/or on weekends may comprise activities of this group and are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor. Students enrolled in this course will meet the PE State Standards and District requirements for physical education. Students will fulfill the required minutes of physical education (400 minutes every 10 days) through both class participation and the completion of an Activity Log which demonstrates physical activities completed outside of the class period. ---This course will address all eight PE content standard areas and will meet all instructional minute requirements in alignment with CDE regulations.

 

Jazz Band

Jazz band teaches students how to play jazz music, improvise and perform in an ensemble. Students will learn the instruments needed to play jazz music, jazz harmonies and articulation and know about jazz history and theory along with other art forms through the music. 

 

Mariachi Band

This is an introductory course designed to assist students with developing and enhancing professional musicianship skills through the study of music composed expressly for Mariachi Ensembles. In this setting, the ability to learn an instrument with basic technical proficiency and aesthetic sensitivity will be emphasized in preparation for a career in mariachi in real world settings. Students will encounter a wide range of Mexico’s traditional music that will include Bolero, Ranchera, and Son. Students will learn the history of Mariachi music of Mexico, along with performance qualities, elements of music, and rehearsal techniques necessary for the performance of a Mariachi ensemble. Students will have opportunities to learn about the careers available to them as a professional musician and will showcase their work on campus and in the community settings.

 

Mariachi Band Beginning

The Roosevelt Mariachi is an advanced instrumental and vocal performing ensemble that explores not only traditional Mexican music, but also contemporary Mexican composers. In addition to learning the proper rehearsal and performance techniques, students are exposed to the historical and social significance of the Mexican and mariachi music.

  

AP Music Theory

Class will concentrate on the elements of chord construction and music composition and applying these features to the creation of original works in a small musical form. Small ensembles will be combined to play student's own works. Units in conducting and music history are also included. To review specific AP course credit, visit www.collegeboard.org; see counselor for information. (Only offered based on minimum of 5 enrolled students).

 

Brass Ensemble

This class concentrates on the techniques of brass instruments as they relate to the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band and/or Orchestra. Problems of rhythms, key signatures, proper breathing, correct embouchure, and all other aspects of brass musicianship are addressed. The class performs as a separate ensemble or as a section within other performing groups. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.

 

Concert Band

Concert Band is open to any student demonstrating Level II proficiency or higher. Students in this course will further develop their skills in reading music, performance and music theory. This class is designed to provide instruction for accomplishing Level IV of this Fresno Unified course of study and appropriate California Music Standards. Regular practices, public performances and competitions after school, at night and/or on weekends may comprise activities of this group and are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor. Marching band experiences and performances may comprise a portion of the activities of this group.

 

Guitar Advanced

PREREQUISITE:

Guitar Beginning or instructor recommendation

Advanced Guitar studies the theory (chord building and song writing) of folk, classical, jazz, and pop styles. The course is designed for students who understand and can demonstrate basic elements of music and who utilize proper guitar performance techniques. Each student will be expected to work/perform at his or her own best effort level and make steady progress. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.

 

Guitar Beginning

Beginning Guitar is designed to provide instruction in beginning guitar technique which includes basic music theory (music reading, chords, etc.), finger picking, playing in groups, and care of the guitar.

 

Latin / Jazz Ensemble

PREREQUISITE:

Audition and/or permission of instructor

Latin Jazz Ensemble is an advanced instrumental performance group that explores the repertoire of Afro-Caribbean music including mambo, cha cha, Mozambique, bolero, guaguanco, Latin jazz, etc. In addition to the techniques of rehearsal and performance, the students learn the theory and history of the music studied and performed. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.

 

Orchestra Beginning

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of music reading, performance of orchestral instruments, and the basics of music theory. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.

 

Orchestra Intermediate

PREREQUISITE: Level II proficiency with the approval of the instructor; minimum of one year performance required

A mixed ensemble class of beginning and intermediate string players in which proper orchestral technique, ear training skills, music theory, and appropriate rehearsal/performance disciplines will be taught throughout the year. This class is open to all students interested in playing and performing an orchestral string instrument who are committed to hard work and performance opportunities. This performance-based class will include concert literature and solo and ensemble music. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.

 

Percussion Ensemble

The Percussion Ensemble class is where percussionists from all performing groups (i.e., Latin Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Band, Steel Drum Band, Concert Band and Marching Band) develop their skills. Basic through advanced techniques of performing on various percussion instruments will be taught along with reading music, ear training, and rhythmic dictation. Other skills that will be emphasized include teamwork, setting up efficiently, and composing short rhythmic phrases.

 

Piano I

This course is designed to teach students basic music skills and beginning piano technique and style. Students will learn the fundamentals of music theory and ear training skills. Music history and appreciation are included throughout the course. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.

 

Piano II

PREREQUISITE:

Piano I or instructor permission

Students will learn piano technique suitable to their ability level. They will study piano literature from all musical periods and develop a more complete understanding of the fundamentals of music theory. Ear training and sight reading will also be part of the course. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.

 

Symphonic Orchestra / Band

PREREQUISITE:    Enrollment is by audition and director(s) recommendation

A highly select group of string players performing the finest in orchestral literature, in which proper orchestral technique, ear training skills, music theory, and appropriate rehearsal/performance disciplines will be taught and maintained within the group. This performance-based class will include A/AA concert literature and solo and ensemble music. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.

 

Wind Ensemble

PREREQUISITE:    Level IV proficiency, audition, and/or recommendation of the instructor

This course is designed for the sequential study of the literature, rehearsal, and performance techniques of the band on the highest level achievable. It is a performance organization of students of high achievement and talent. Marching band experiences and concert performances will comprise a portion of the activities of this group. Public performances are scheduled according to the progress and abilities of the group as determined by the instructor.