Troubadour Choir
Course ID: 160
This introductory level semester class focuses on the performing of beginning level literature from selected eras of music. Basic training in interpretation, rehearsal techniques and performance will be emphasized. In addition, the students will learn relevant theory and history of the music performed. Required rehearsals and performances are scheduled by the director. The course serves as the prerequisite to year-long choral music classes.
Prerequisite: Positive attitude towards learning about choral singing techniques and music education
Fees: $30 course fee
Level: 9-12
Credit: 5
Concert Choir (P)
Course ID: 162
The concert choir at St. Francis focuses on the performing intermediate level literature from selected eras of music. Training in interpretation, rehearsal techniques and performance will be emphasized. In addition, the students will learn relevant theory and history of the music performed. The required rehearsals, performances, and competitions are scheduled by the director. This yearlong class fulfills the UC requirement for Fine Arts. The course may be repeated for additional credit. UC/CSU approved
Prerequisite: Completion of Troubadour Choir or audition and teacher recommendation. Student must have the ability to sing and read music at an intermediate level; one to two years experience or equivalent private instruction
Fees: $50 course fee, $110 dress fee
Level: 9-12
Credit: 10
Chamber Singers (P)
Course ID: 165
The chamber singers at St. Francis focus on performing intermediate and advanced level literature from selected eras of music. Training in interpretation, rehearsal techniques and performance will be emphasized. In addition, students will learn relevant theory and history of the music performed. Required rehearsals, performances, and competitions are scheduled by the director. This performance group represents St. Francis and the diocese in the community of Sacramento as the primary singing ensemble with many scheduled events. The course may be repeated for additional credit. UC/CSU approved
Prerequisite: Audition and teacher recommendation. Student must have the ability to sing at an intermediate level; one to two years experience or equivalent private instruction.
Fees: $50 course fee, $110 dress fee
Level: 10-12
Credit: 10
Jazz Ensemble (P)
Course ID: 167
Jazz ensemble performs material from various historical Jazz idioms, including Swing, Ragtime, Blues, Dixieland, Latin Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Rock and Funk. In addition to performance and rehearsal, students will achieve awareness of the history and events of jazz music and the theoretical
components of group playing and improvisation. Students will have the opportunity to create and record their own compositions in the style under consideration. UC/CSU approved
Prerequisite: Audition
Fees: $50 course fee
Level: 9-12
Credit: 10
Concert Orchestra (P)
Course ID: 166
The Orchestra is an intermediate class. Musicians will be trained in reading notations, rhythms, and standard literature. They will also be trained in the musical techniques of rehearsal and performance. Each student will be graded on the ability to perform as a contributing cooperative member. The director schedules the required performances. The students study the beginning elements of music theory and ear training. This yearlong class fulfills the UC requirement for Fine Arts. It may be repeated for credit. UC/CSU approved
Prerequisite: Audition
Fees: $50 course fee; $110 dresses
Level: 9-12
Credit: 10
Chamber Orchestra (P)
Course ID: 169
This is an advanced level ensemble performing as the music representatives of St. Francis in many school events and venues. The Chamber Orchestra will train in the interpretation and the period style of many musical eras. In addition to the techniques of rehearsal and performance, the student will be graded on the ability to perform as a contributing, cooperative member, responsibly improving the level of the ensemble in every aspect. The director schedules required performances and competitions. The students will continue to study music theory with an emphasis in sight singing, ear training and basic written theory. UC/CSU approved
Prerequisite: Audition only. Chamber Orchestra is limited to 25 members.
Fees: $50 course fee, $110 dress fee
Level: 9-12
Credit: 10
Solo & Ensembles
Course ID: 171
Students enrolled in this yearlong guided independent study class work through their particular medium as a soloist and/or member of an ensemble. The one-to-one instructional format requires that the student arrange to meet with the instructor at a mutually agreeable time outside her regular class schedule. Students are instructed in standard literature, performance technique, and stylistic interpretation. In addition, students learn the history of the music performed and the relevant theory. Class members are expected to contribute to St. Francis and the community-at-large through participation in Liturgies, musicals and other venues. Students are required to attend rehearsals, performance concerts, and competitions. This course does not meet the UC Fine Arts requirement. The course may be repeated for additional credit.
Prerequisite: Audition and teacher recommendation. Student must have the ability to sing at an intermediate-advance level with three to four years' experience of participation in a group or private lessons. This course is taken concurrently with a choral or an orchestra class.
Fees: $90 course fee
Level: 9-12
Credit: 5
Essentials of Music (P)
Course ID: 172
Essentials of Music provides students with a broad overview of music. Students will be introduced to and explore music from the medieval period through rock-n-roll. If you want to know more about music, this is the course for you. Students will develop a clear understanding of all forms of music, build a basic listening library, and learn the fundamentals of music theory. Pending UC/CSU approval in the (f – Visual & Performing Arts) category.
Prerequisites: None
Level: 9-12
Credit: 10
Honors Essentials of Music (HP)
Course ID: 174
Honors Essentials of Music is a course offered to juniors and seniors who have completed foundation work in music. This is also open to 10th grade students who have the necessary preparation to complete UC designated honors courses. Essentials of Music (Honors) is an advanced level of Essentials of Music. This course provides a college level introduction to all aspects of music. Students will analyze and identify the period, genre, stylistic traits, and form for pieces through listening and examination of works from the Medieval through the Modern periods. Pending UC/CSU approval in the (f – Visual & Performing Arts) category.
Prerequisites: None
Level: 10-12
Credit: 10
The Canticle (Yearbook)
Course ID: 195
This course broadens students' understanding of the media while contributing to the SFHS archives through development of The Canticle, the school yearbook. Methodology consists of creative lab experiences, layout, recording, and reporting. Goals include stimulating students' creativity, strengthening their value of commitment, and assuming responsibility for a final product. This course may be repeated for credit. Note: Yearbook requires some after-school hours.
Prerequisite: Students must have the recommendation of her present English teacher. Sophomores & Juniors must have an "A" in English. Seniors who are signing up for yearbook for the first time must have at least a "B" in English; involvement in school activities, strong writing skills, InDesign computer skills preferred; may be repeated for credit.
Level: 10-12
Credit: 10
