Music

All students in the music program have the opportunity to perform as part of an instrumental ensemble.  There are also extracurricular groups (Advanced Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Rock Club, Choir) for particularly motivated students, or for those who cannot fit music into their timetable.  These ensembles often perform at the end of the semester, sometimes for assemblies, and sometimes for competitions and workshops in various locations around the lower mainland or on Vancouver Island.

Students in the Beginner Band are introduced to the flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, baritone horn and percussion instruments.  After trying each one, they select the instrument they feel best suited to for concentrated study throughout the remainder of the semester.  Posture, playing position, breathing and embouchure formation are taught, as integral components of tone production.  The “Standard of Excellence” method book is used to teach basic technical and music-reading skills.

Advanced and intermediate students attend class at the same time as the beginners.  They spend some of the class time reviewing and refining reading and playing skills.  The saxophone is added to the list of instruments they might wish to play. They sometimes help with instruction, and occasionally conduct the group.  Goals for these students include developing stronger technique, more focused tone quality, increased understanding of phrasing and musical expression, and more facility with new fingerings and complex rhythms.