Performing Arts Department

Middle School

MS.510/ Chorus (Grades 7-8)

Middle School Chorus is a year-long course made up of 7th and 8th grade students. Students will be taught to read music and sing in parts. They will prepare several full-length choral pieces for performance at the end of each semester and also participate in local festivals and competitions. Along with the practical work of rehearsing and performing, students will also learn to appreciate the historical richness of the musical tapestry with its various styles and genres.

MS.505/ Chamber Ensemble (Grades 7-8)

Prerequisite: Must have previous knowledge of given instrument

This ensemble is comprised of students in grades 7-8 with various playing abilities. This group is designed to meet the student at their ability, learn to play independently and with others, and have a performance during each semester. Along with the practical work of rehearsing and performing, students will also learn to appreciate the historical richness of the musical tapestry with its various styles and genres.

A.120/ Chamber Ensemble 9 (Grade 9) [LH]

Prerequisite: Must have previous knowledge of given instrument

This ensemble is comprised of students in grade 9 with various playing abilities. This group is designed to meet the student at their ability, learn to play independently and with others, and have a performance during each semester. Along with the practical work of rehearsing and performing, students will also learn to appreciate the historical richness of the musical tapestry with its various styles and genres. (1 credit)

Upper School

A.140/ Chamber Orchestra [LH]

Prerequisite: Must have previous knowledge of given instrument

This instrumental ensemble is comprised of students in grades 10-12 and of 9th graders by audition. The ensemble specializes in concert and chamber styles of orchestral music. This ensemble has many performing opportunities on and off campus and also participates in local festivals and competitions. (1 credit)

A.150/ Chamber Singers [LH]

Prerequisite: Audition

This singing group is chosen by audition only. The group is comprised of students in grades 9-12 and specializes in concert and chamber styles of choral music this ensemble offers several on-campus and off-campus performances each year, with and apart from the Concert Choir and participate in local festivals and competitions. (1 credit)

A.160/ Concert Choir [LH]

Prerequisite: Offered for grades 9-12

This mixed ensemble is Stony Brook’s oldest music group. The group is comprised of students in grades 9-12. The choir specializes in concert and chamber styles of choral music. This ensemble has many performing opportunities on and off campus and also participates in local festivals and competitions. (1 credit)

A.301/ Advanced Topics in Music Theory

Prerequisites: Music knowledge assessment and audition. Open to 10-12th graders

This course introduces students to musicianship, theory, musical materials, and procedures. It integrates aspects of melody, harmony, texture, rhythm, form, musical analysis, elementary composition, and, to some extent, history and style. Students develop musicianship skills such as dictation and other listening skills, sight-singing, and keyboard harmony. Students must have at least basic performance and sight-reading skills in voice or on an instrument to take the course. Students have the option to take the AP exam at the end of the course. (1 credit)