Music at MCDS Middle School & High School
Instrument/ Voice Lessons (1 per week, semi-private)
‣ All students have the option to take semi-private lessons but are not required.
‣ 2011-12 Choices: Piano, Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Voice, Violin, Viola, Cello, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Guitar, Drums/Percussion.
‣ In exceptional circumstances (to be determined in consultation with parents, advisors, and the music staff), students may be able to take lessons on two instruments.
Music Class Theory & History (2 per week)
‣ Develops the creative musician in every student. The classroom experience emphasizes a wide range of music history and theory from Western and classical music to music of Asia and Americaʼs own musical form of jazz.
‣ Prepares students for success on musical examinations including the IB, college entrance and placement, and the ABRSM theory and practical exams.
Performance Classes (2 per week)
‣ Grades 5-6: All students participate in choir and choose from the following options for a second performance class per week: band, orchestra, or chamber choir.
‣ Grades 7-12: Choir is no longer mandatory. Students choose between Jazz band, orchestra, and choir. Some musicians may play in both band and orchestra (i.e., Bass).
Join us for an eventful year of Concerts & Performing Arts
Fall Orchestra Concert, Fall Instrumental/Voice Recitals, Fall Play, Winter Concert, Talent Show, Jazz Showcase Night, Spring Orchestra & Chamber Recital, Spring Musical, Spring Instrumental/Voice Recitals and Spring Concert
Extracurricular: Fall Play Spring Musical
‣ Try-outs for the Fall Play begin in September.
‣ Try-outs for the Spring Musical begin in January.
‣ MCDS has a no-cut policy for the Performing Arts.