Dance Program, Music Program K-12, Instrumental Music Program 5-12, Choral Music Program 5-12, Theatre Arts Program 5-12
Dance Program
Dance uses movement to express and communicate ideas, stories, myths, and cultural beliefs. Students learn how to use their body through the language of form, shape, rhythm, energy, space and movement. Students experience a variety of dance styles from hip-hop, jazz, to traditional folk dances and ballet. Dance is currently taught during the 21st Century Scholars After School Learning Centers.
Music Program K-12
The general music program is based on the development of concepts known as the elements of music: rhythm, melody, harmony, form and expressive qualities (dynamics, tone, color, tempo and articulation). These concepts are introduced through a variety of activities appropriate for each grade level in singing, playing instruments, listening, movement, improvisation, music reading, notation and history. The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of diverse learners. Singing alone and with others the primary focus of the elementary curriculum. Children develop a pitch, melodic and rhythmic accuracy singing and exploring music of our American heritage and world cultures. They are also introduced to the treble clef by learning to play melody instruments such as the xylophone or recorder.
At the middle school level, students may participate in the choral and band programs offered at their school along with a variety of in-school and after school programs in theater arts and dance. Through the use of the internet and software applications students compose, create, learn the basics of music notation, music theory and ear-training, piano and song writing skills. At the high school level, students may continue their study in music by participating in the concert band, marching band, jazz ensemble, and theory and composition electives. In addition, students have access to music technology through various programs in theory, ear-training, music appreciation, composition and arranging.
Instrumental Music Program 5-12
Instrumental music lessons begin in Grade 5 on traditional band instruments: flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone and percussion. Students can join the instrumental music program in any grade starting at Grade 5 with the permission of the instrumental music director. Students receive one group lesson during school hours, per week and have the opportunity to participate in band, and perform for seasonal, patriotic events and community events. The Standard for Excellence, Books I and II band method is used system wide.
The Instrumental Music Program at Fitchburg High School consists of Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Jazz Studio Ensemble. Music ensembles may participate in local and regional music festivals throughout the year. Beginning in grade7, students have the opportunity to participate in the Central District Junior or Senior Music and Allstate Festivals sponsored by the Massachusetts Music Educators Association. The Fitchburg High School Band Parents Association works closely with the Band Director to provide enrichment opportunities, student scholarships and program advocacy throughout the year.
Choral Music Program 5-12
Students at the middle school level have opportunities to participate in their school’s non-selective choral program. The school chorus performs at seasonal and community events throughout the year. Selected choral students in grades 7 and 8 have an opportunity to participate in the central District Junior Chorus sponsored by the Massachusetts Music Educators Association. Chorus I at Fitchburg High School consists of a general mixed chorus. Students study a variety of choral literature including early madrigals of the Renaissance, significant works of the Classical and Romantic periods, American Jazz and Popular classics, folk songs and recently composed pieces. The chorus performs at the annual winter and spring concerts as well as seasonal and community events. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the Central District Senior Music and Allstate Festivals.
Theatre Arts Program 5-12
Theatre Arts education expands the ability to understand others, communicate ideas, and can provide opportunities for integrating the arts by linking dance, music and visual arts elements in performance and production. At the middle school level, students have the option of participating in various after school productions: plays, talent shows, rallies, poetry readings, and musicals. Students involved in these productions work on their performing arts ensemble techniques while gaining confidence and self-esteem. Theatre Arts I at Fitchburg High School explores the history of theatre arts from ancient Greece to William Shakespeare to the contemporary art form. Students also discover the fundamentals of modern theatre through exercises and role-playing. The course is available to any sophomore, junior or senior not having previously taken a theatre course at Fitchburg High School. Advanced Theatre Arts offers the serious theatre student a more in-depth theatre experience by producing, staging, acting and directing a number of dramatic productions throughout the year. Course requirements include participation in the state-wide Massachusetts High School Drama Guild Festival during the spring semester.
