General Music and Technology (Grade 8)
General music is an elaboration on the fundamental musical elements taught at the elementary and intermediate levels with an emphasis on the continued development of perceptive listening skills.  The purpose of this course is to broaden the students’ musical background, enabling them to become more knowledgeable consumers, utilizing traditional and modern technological resources.  Throughout the school year, students enrolled in the General Music and Technology course will use technology in application for music education.  Notating, composing, sequencing, editing music on a computer, performing on rhythmic and melodic instruments, and playing keyboard at a beginner level are some of the skills that will be included in the coursework.  Ideally, students enrolled and successfully completing this course will have a wider musical background and be more knowledgeable music consumers through the experiences provided through this course.

Instrumental Music (Band)
Band is an instrumental music course for wind and percussion players.  It meets 2 days per cycle with an additional period as a required pull-out sectional lesson.  Its main purpose is to provide continued ensemble playing experience for wind and percussion players.  In the concert setting, the Band will perform in the Pop’s Concert as well as in the Spring Concert.  In addition to a concert band setting, students enrolled in the band program at the middle school level are exposed to the marching band aspects of an instrumental music experience, as well.  The band participates in various concerts, parades, and, additionally, Band Night at the Football Game.  Requirements include playing a wind or percussion instrument, attendance during sectionals, rehearsals, and performances (both during and outside of school), as well as individual practice at home (At this age, individual practice should average 30-40 min of individual practice per day).

Vocal Music (Chorus)
Chorus is an elective course for singers.  It meets 2 days per cycle with an additional period as a required pull-out sectional lesson (Grade 8 only). Grade 7 Chorus is available to any student. Grade 8 Chorus is limited to students who have successfully demonstrated the ability to pass a vocal test on matching pitches.  The vocal groups have several performances throughout the school year.  Students are taught to appreciate good choral literature, proper vocal techniques, and music reading skills to achieve superior performance levels. 

Heather Frankhouser, hfrankho@gmsd.k12.pa.us
Scott Schwartz, sschwart@gmsd.k12.pa.us