My first question is what is taught in the art humanities for music? I understand that it corresponds to the other humanities, but I don’t quite understand if it is related more to music theory, or if they learn pieces to play like in ensembles. Additionally, if my child were not to choose music as my Art, and chose dance instead, then could they still participate in the ensembles for orchestra and chorus?
In regards to the music groups, do they travel in the summer to play in other countries? And also do they take place after school or during school hours?
Finally, is it possible to take two music lessons, an instrumental lesson and voice ? And, if my child were to take a for credit lesson, would it take place during their music class and how would it count towards their grade?
The child will be attending Hotchkiss this fall
You would do best to email the music department chair with these questions. I’m guessing that your child used to go to a school where it was difficult to communicate with teachers, but I’m sure you will find that the teachers at Hotchkiss are very responsive and helpful.
Twinsmama is right, just email the head of the music department and he’ll be more than willing to answer all your questions. My son did photo for his art so I don’t know much about the music program. I believe it has both an instrumental component and a history of music component, but that’s really all I know.
If a student chooses music as their art:
There are three elements to the music curriculum for preps: private lessons, ensemble, and music history. The student will learn a piece in their private lessons, which are twice a week, and they will perform that piece in a recital at the end of the quarter. They will also learn a piece to perform for what is called their “art salon,” which is just the final exam for music. They will learn different pieces in their ensemble, which meets twice per week, than they do in their lessons, though they can work on their ensemble pieces with their lesson teacher if necessary. The ensembles have their own concerts during the year. Music history meets once a week and is just about the time period that all of the students will be studying music from.
If a student chooses another art and not music:
I am not 100% sure if they can be in an ensemble if they do not also take private lessons. However, I know multiple people who are not in music but take non-credit music lessons and participate in an ensemble.
The ensembles (choir, jazz band, and orchestra) are considered credit classes and meet during the regular school day, though their performances are not. Other musical clubs on campus, including Calliope and Bluenotes (girls and boys a cappella groups) meet outside of classes.
It is possible to take two music lessons, but it is my understanding that only one will be graded/considered a credit course. The private lessons take place during two of the student’s previously free periods during the week. The private lesson grade is 50%, the ensemble grade is 25%, and the music history grade is 25% of the total music grade.
Hope this helps!