Music 

Instrumental Music Grade 9, Open (AMU1O)

This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience and is aimed at developing technique, sensitivity, and imagination. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop an understanding of the conventions and elements of music and of safe practices related to music, and will develop a variety of skills transferable to other areas of their life.

Prerequisite: None 

Instrumental Music Grade 10, Open (AMU2O) 

This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop their understanding of musical conventions, practices, and terminology and apply the elements of music in a range of activities. They will also explore the function of music in society with reference to the self, communities, and cultures.

Prerequisite: None 

IB Description

Music in the MYP gives students access to musical experiences that allow for the development of thinking skills, intuitive skills, practical abilities, communication and the ability to relate to others. Engagement with existing and emerging music from the local community and from around the world allows students to learn about various musical cultures. Engaging in practical work allows students to develop their understanding of how the act of making music is a significant and universal aspect of human expression. 

The instrumental music program is designed to provide a foundation for the development of intelligent performance skills on a woodwind, brass or percussion instrument. Performing in an instrumental ensemble requires a combination of visual, intellectual, physical and auditory control coupled with a perceptive decision-making process. Various aspects of music are explored through active listening, performing and creating. Through performance of suitable repertoire, students develop musical understanding and proficient technical skills, which are required for success in any musical endeavor. Opportunities for instrumental solo and ensemble performances provide a venue for demonstrating the application of musical skills. Music theory and composition skills are explored through the use of MIDI computer technology. Students in this program will have the opportunity to be streamed into either concert band or jazz band and work for part of the time with a specialized teacher. All students are required to participate in the Concert Band and all students have the opportunity to join other instrumental ensembles such as our Guitar Ensemble and Flute Choir. Although most students in this course have prior experience on an instrument, provision is made for all students who wish to pursue an interest in music. 

Grades 11 and 12 

Instrumental or Vocal Music

IB Diploma Program: Standard or Higher Level Ministry Credits: AMU3M, AMU4M 

Music Grade 11, University/College Preparation (AMU3M)

This course provides students with opportunities to develop their musical literacy through the creation, appreciation, analysis, and performance of music, including traditional, commercial, and art music. Students will apply the creative process when performing appropriate technical exercises and repertoire and will employ the critical analysis processes when reflecting on, responding to, and analysing live and recorded performances. Students will consider the function of music in society and the impact of music on individuals and communities. They will explore how to apply skills developed in music to their life and careers.

Prerequisite: Music Grade 9 or 10, Open 

Music Grade 12, University/College Preparation (AMU4M)

This course enables students to enhance their musical literacy through the creation, appreciation, analysis, and performance of music. Students will perform traditional, commercial, and art music, and will respond with insight to live and recorded performances. Students will enhance their understanding of the function of music in society and the impact of music on themselves and various communities and cultures. Students will analyse how to apply skills developed in music to their life and careers.

Prerequisite: Music Grade 11, University/College Preparation  

IB Description

Throughout the DP music course, students are encouraged to explore music in varied and sometimes unfamiliar contexts. Additionally, by experimenting with music, students gain hands-on experience while honing musical skills. Through realizing and presenting samples of their musical work with others, students also learn to communicate critical and artistic intentions and purposes. As students develop as young musicians, the course challenges them to engage practically with music as researchers, performers and creators, and to be driven by their unique passions and interests while also broadening their musical and artistic perspectives. The difference between the Higher Level and Standard Level course is greater breadth and depth reflected in an additional task. The course components are as follows: 

1. Exploring music in context (SL - 30% / HL - 20%)
   When exploring music in context, students will learn how to engage with a diverse range of music that will broaden their musical horizons and provide stimuli to expand their own music-making.

2. Experimenting with music (SL - 30% / HL - 20%)
   When experimenting with music, students connect theoretical studies to practical work and gain a deeper understanding of the music they engage with.

3. Presenting music (SL - 40% / HL - 30%)
   When presenting music, students learn to practice and prepare finished pieces that will be performed or presented to an audience. In working towards completed musical works, students expand their musical identity, demonstrate their level of musicianship, and learn to share and communicate their music as researchers, creators and performers.

4. The contemporary music maker (Higher Level only - 30%)
   “The contemporary music maker” component culminates in a collaborative project that is inspired by real-life practices in contemporary music-making. This project brings together the roles of researcher, creator and performer, as well as the processes of exploration, experimentation and presentation, through a real-life music-making situation within a contemporary setting. Developing, realizing and sharing artistic intentions through practical music-making is at the heart of this project.