Beginning Vocal Ensemble Click here to download the Vocal Ensemble Application
A non-auditioned ensemble that will address basic to intermediate vocal techniques. Posture, breath support, vowel production, tone color, and vibrato will be introduced and developed. Music theory and sight-reading will be introduced as music is explored through many languages, cultures, and styles. A portion of the course will be taking part in performances during the school year as well as participation in school liturgies.
Advanced Vocal Ensemble
An auditioned ensemble that will address intermediate to advanced vocal techniques. A major portion of the course will be performances during the school year as well as participation in school and other diocesan liturgies. Music theory and sight-reading will be refined as music is explored through many languages, cultures and styles. Vocal techniques such as breath support, vowel production, tone color, and vibrato will be developed.
Begining Handbell Ensemble
The Connelly Handbell Ensemble will focus on beginning to intermediate handbell techniques. The class will begin with basic Music Theory as it pertains to handbells, including introductions to rhythm, pitch recognition, dynamics, articulation techniques, as well as expression and musicality. The ensemble will be expected to participate fully in many liturgies at Connelly as well as perform in concerts and festivals throughout the school year. Also addressed will be appropriate handbell usage in Catholic liturgy as well as viable performance medium in concerts.
Advanced Handbelll Ensemble
The Connelly Advanced Handbell Ensemble, an auditioned ensemble, will focus on intermediate to advanced handbell techniques. The class will continue the study of Music Theory as it pertains to handbells, including more complex rhythms, faster pitch recognition, extreme dynamics, articulation techniques, as well as further exploration of expression and musicality. The ensemble will be expected to participate fully in many liturgies at Connelly as well as perform in concerts and festivals throughout the school year. Also addressed will be appropriate handbell usage in Catholic liturgy as well as viable performance medium in concerts.
Music Appreciation
The only non-performing music course offered at Connelly. A survey of western music from the Gregorian chant to the modern times, covering musical practices of the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary (Rock and Roll, Pop, R&B, Rap, etc.)periods. Representative works by outstanding composers of each period. Basic Piano and Music Theory skills (i.e. Reading a musical score; listening skills) will be introduced.
Chamber Singers
Students will form a mixed ensemble to study and perform the vast amount of choral literature for mixed voices. Advanced vocal techniques as well as ensemble techniques and considerations will be addressed. Major portions of this course will be performances throughout the school year as well as special performances in liturgies at Connelly and throughout the diocese and community. Meeting times to be arranged after school or Early Bird.
Liturgical Music
This course is primarily a musical ensemble that will prepare Mass music for all liturgies at Connelly. The group will rehearse 1 day per week as agreed upon by the musicians. These students will also have the responsibility to assist in choosing Mass music for the community. Students will rehearse and continue their training on their musical instrument of choice (i.e. voice, guitar, piano, percussion, flute, violin etc.).
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.
Freshman Choir
This choir is designed to enhance the Art Foundation course at Connelly. This ensemble will provide the platform for each student to explore basic vocal technique, music reading skills, literature exploration and performance.
Jazz Band
This instrumental ensemble focuses on beginning to intermediate instrument ensemble techniques found in a broad range of styles, but are specifically geared toward the Jazz genre. Basic music theory and sight-reading are important parts of the curriculum. Students are expected to perform at both a Christmas and a spring Concert and to participate in festivals and school liturgies. Students are required to have their own instruments.
A piano is available for student use. Portable keyboards are acceptable.
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor
Servite High School Friar Band and Color Guard
This performance group is open to all students of Servite, Rosary, and Connelly high schools. Meetings take place after school on the campus of Servite High School. This group performs at all Varsity Football games and several marching band competitions in the fall, and then breaks off into concert band, winter guard, and percussion ensemble in the Spring semester. Students of all musical levels are encouraged to join. Band camp takes place in August and there is a participation shared cost fee for the entire year. Interested students may contact Sarah Yarbrough, band director at 714-774-7575x1177, or at banddirector@servitehs.org.
Brian Dehn
Music Director
Cornelia Connelly School
714-776-1717 extension 246
bdehn@connellyhs.org
