Performing Arts

Performing Ensemble Courses 

Concert Band  

The Hartford High School Concert Band presents and encourages music performance at Hartford High School. Concert Band and is open to all qualified students in grades 9-12 who play woodwind, brass, or percussion instruments. The Concert Band studies music from many different historical periods, presenting diverse musical styles and genres. Dedication to the improvement of individual and group skills and musical knowledge is essential to participate in concert band, and individual practice outside of rehearsal is expected. Members of the band attend regular small-group music instruction through a lesson program. Students will be expected to perform assignments regularly with emphasis on rhythm reading and producing an appropriate tone. All band members are encouraged to participate in pep band. Students are eligible to represent Hartford High School through music festivals at the district, state, and regional levels. All students are welcome. While this course is taught at the “standard” level, students will have the opportunity to e an “advanced” credit by applying to do so through the teacher.

Concert Choir  

The Hartford High School Concert Choir presents and encourages music performance at Hartford High School. Concert Choir and is open to all qualified students in grades 9-12.Vocal screening assessment will take place each year for all students in chorus The Concert Choir studies music from many different historical periods, presenting diverse musical styles and genres. Dedication to the improvement of individual and group skills and musical knowledge is essential to participate in concert choir, and individual practice outside of rehearsal is expected. Students will be expected to perform assignments regularly with emphasis on sight reading. Students are eligible to represent Hartford High School through music festivals at the district, state, and regional levels. All students are welcome. While this course is taught at the “standard” level, students will have the opportunity to earn an “advanced” credit by applying to do so through the teacher.

Concert Choir / Band

Choir/Band allows students to participate in both Band and Choir.  Students who elect to do so take on the work and responsibility of both groups.  Class time is divided between Band and Choir. While this course is taught at the “standard” level, students will have the opportunity to earn an “advanced” credit by applying to do so through the teacher.

Performing Arts Elective Courses

Broadway Performance 1     

“Start spreading the news because this is one singular sensation of a course.” This course will explore all aspects of Broadway Performance.  Students will explore the history of musical theater and address the unique challenges of the Broadway performer through work with scenes, ensemble, small group, and solo songs, characterizations, and choreography. Students who have never sung and/or acted before are more than welcome to join the class.  While this course is taught at the “standard” level, students will have the opportunity to earn an “advanced” credit by applying to do so through the teacher.

Broadway Performance 2          

This course will be a continuation of Broadway Performance 1. Students will direct and block their own scenes and choreograph and teach their own dances. Students will perform scenes, solos, duets, small ensemble numbers, and large group dances. During this class we will continue exploring various musicals throughout the decades and discuss various changes that have occurred over the years to make the Broadway musical what it is today.  While this course is taught at the “standard” level, students will have the opportunity to earn an “advanced” credit by applying to do so through the teacher.

Dance and Movement

In this class, we will experience various styles of dance forms and expression through movement. Throughout this class we will explore movement elements by learning basic techniques from various dance genres and styles. Alternative forms of movement, such as yoga or martial arts, may also be explored. No previous dance or movement experience is needed.

Guitar 1 (offered every other year; next offered 2020-2021)

Have you ever wanted to learn how to play your favorite song on the guitar? This course is designed for students who have little to no experience playing the guitar. Throughout the semester, students will read and play all types of chords from major/minor to barre/power chords, practice different strumming patterns, and explore the techniques of improvising solo licks.. Students will also be exposed to musical notation and basic music theory.  As a class, we will work on a variety of solo and ensemble pieces in an assortment of musical genres. Guitars will be provided. 

Guitar 2 (offered every other year; next offered 2020-2021)

This course is an extension of Guitar 1. Throughout this course students will expand upon their knowledge of the fretboard and guitar techniques. We will read and play more advanced chords and be exposed to upper level music theory and rhythmic notation. Students will have the opportunity to improvise and compose their own melodies/pieces. 

Hip-Hop Comp

Create your own music. Record your own raps. Lay down your own beats. In this class you will be working in Music Technology Lab creating your own hip-hop compositions using Studio One Software with ATOM Launch Pads. This class will help you create and shape layers of sound using different sampling techniques as used in today’s hip-hop music industry. By the end of the semester, you will have your own portfolio of hip-hop compositions.

Music Theory (offered every other year; next offered 2021-2022)

Music not only provides a way for students to express themselves artistically, but also enhances intelligence and creativity. This course is designed to help the more serious music student learn the elements of musicianship necessary for becoming a mature advanced level musician. Students will study the language and symbols of music beginning with the construction of major and minor scales, the circle of fifths, interval training, chord construction and analysis, chord recognition, musical notation, four-part writing, and aural skills. Due to the amount of material that is covered, previous music reading experience is highly recommended. Due to the depth and breadth of material covered, this course is taught at the “advanced” level.

World Drumming         

This course is all about drumming! Every culture on the planet has some form of drumming, and this course will offer a hands-on exploration of various drumming and rhythm traditions. In this class we will play various percussive instruments such as: djembes, tubano, talking drums, buffalo drums, and other assortments of hand percussion. Throughout this course students will experience music of African, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures. No previous music experience is needed to take this class. All skills will be taught in the class through traditional call and response and aural learning. All instruments will be provided for use. Nothing “beats” this! 

Extra-Curricular Performing Ensembles

Jazz Band

Jazz Band is an auditioned ensemble that rehearses both before and during school. This ensemble works on challenging music of many styles, including but not limited to: jazz, funk, rock, pop, and blues. Performances include concerts, Pizzazz, Holiday Caroling Tour,  and other public events. 

Chamber Choir

Chamber Choir is an  auditioned ensemble that rehearses both before and during school. Chamber Choir works on challenging vocal music of many styles. The Chamber Choir participates in the ACDA Madrigal Festival every year and performs at School Concerts, Caroling Tour, Pizzazz, Football Games, and various public events. 

Pep Band 

Pep Band provides fun and entertainment at our home football games and more events throughout the year! Every member of the Concert Band learns the music for Pep Band, and all students are encouraged to participate in Pep Band events throughout the year.

Musical

Please visit the musical page of the HHS website.