Asheville School

 

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Music

Asheville School's music program is individualized to the skills and interests of each student. 

Music Instruction

Applied Music is a course designed for students who have a strong desire and ability to pursue music at the post secondary level. The course is designed to allow Sixth Form students a daily opportunity to work on mastering their chosen instrument. It is understood that a student accepted into Applied Music intends to major or minor in music at the college level. Students must meet rigorous guidelines in order to qualify for this course. Their growth throughout the year is measured through private lessons and graded public performances.

Previous students who have taken this course have used their fall semester to prepare for college auditions or in the production of a supplemental recording for college applications. The second semester culminates in a public recital or a private juried performance before a panel of qualified adjudicators.

Advanced Placement Music Theory is a course that focuses on the elements of musical structure, students are taught pitch, duration, intervals and dynamics. An in-depth study of four-part harmony, form and analysis is also included in the course. More challenging aspects of the course require students to master melodic and harmonic dictation as well as the ability to sing a melody at sight.

Instrumental Program

Handbell Ensemble is a five octave handbell and handchime group that performs both on and off campus at various venues and for a variety of functions. This auditioned group performs a wide variety of music from sacred to secular and is often joined by instrumentalists as well as choral groups. Membership is limited to fifteen ringers.

Instrumental Ensemble is open to anyone with instrumental experience. In addition to playing as a larger ensemble including all members, instrumental ensemble members also work in small chamber music groups. Members are often featured soloists with both the Handbell Ensemble and our choral groups. They also provide music for our chapel program. Advanced instrumentalists also have the opportunity to audition for and perform with the Asheville- Buncombe Youth Orchestra.

Choral Program

Chorus is Asheville School’s largest choral group. Anyone who enjoys singing is welcome. In addition to performing at our annual Thanksgiving Service, Christmas Candlelight Services and Spring Concert, this organization also learns about choral singing and the voice. Repertoire ranges from sacred to secular. Members have the opportunity to audition for and attend several regional choral festivals as well. Membership in this group is required for membership consideration in our other smaller choral groups.

Chorale is a select mixed group of eight members who perform not only at school functions but also at off-campus venues in conjunction with the Handbell Ensemble. Much of their repertoire is a capella and ranges from sacred to secular.

Chamber Choir is a mixed group of between 12 and 16 members who perform a weekly selection for our chapel program. Their repertoire is predominately sacred in nature.

Music