Concert Band (0.5 credits per semester):

The Hatboro-Horsham High School Concert Band is a compelling ensemble experience designed for students who are passionate about music and wish to enhance their instrumental skills. This course offers an opportunity for student musicians to collaborate and perform a diverse repertoire while engaging in rehearsals focused on developing musicianship, teamwork, and performance techniques. Throughout the year, students will have the opportunity to perform at concerts, festivals, and community events, fostering confidence and stage presence. Additionally, students may be encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble competitions to further their growth as musicians. Prerequisites include basic proficiency on a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. A commitment to practice and collaboration is essential for success in this ensemble. The Concert Band does not meet during Lunch and Learn; enrollment in the course is required to participate.

Concert Choir (0.5 credits per semester):

The Hatboro-Horsham High School Concert Choir is an immersive and dynamic singing experience for all students who wish to sing while learning healthy and foundational vocal techniques. This course is open to all interested students who enjoy singing in a creative, positive, and fun environment! Students will gain a greater understanding of the historical style factors of choral music; develop personal knowledge of a particular genre, style, or, composer through the study of choral compositions; develop a greater appreciation of the interaction between text, music, and other fine arts; develop communication skills through the performance of different styles of music; develop rhythmic, pitch, language skills appropriate for a piece of music; and develop music reading skills appropriate for the level of the students. Choir members are required to attend several FULL Lunch & Learn Rehearsals throughout the semester, as scheduled.

*students may be in both Band and Choir by signing up for the Band/Concert Choir course*

String Ensemble (0.5 credits per semester):

Strings Ensemble is a performing arts course for students who play the violin, viola, cello or bass. Students work individually and as a group to rehearse and perform orchestral music. Pieces from various genres such as Baroque, Classical and popular music are studied. Musical elements such as rhythm, melody and harmony are examined. There are two levels of orchestra: beginner and experienced, so all interested students are welcome. Strings Ensemble members must provide their own instruments and rentals are available through local businesses. FULL Orchestra Rehearsal during Lunch and Learn once a week is required.

Madrigals (0.5 credits):

Madrigals is by audition only, and one of two premier honors-level singing ensembles at HHHS. This SATB choir performs challenging repertoire from all composition periods and genres. Students in Madrigals also sing as part of the larger Concert Choir and are required to spend extra time learning both sets of repertoire. Madrigals has an extensive performance schedule during the Holiday season and the group is often requested to perform at important community events, including numerous National Anthems. Members are self-motivated and willing to put in extra time and energy to make the ensemble successful. Students must audition in January of the previous year to enroll. The class is only offered during Semester 1.

Treble Choir (0.5 credits):

Treble Choir is by audition only, and the second of two premier honors-level singing ensembles at HHHS. The choir is a select, advanced SSAA ensemble and sings music spanning all types of compositions, periods, and genres. Treble Choir has an extensive performance schedule during the Spring Semester and are often requested to perform at important community events. Students in Treble Choir also sings as part of the larger Concert Choir and are required to spend extra time learning both sets of repertoire. Members are self-motivated and willing to put in extra time and energy to make the ensemble successful. Students must audition in January of the previous year to enroll. This class is only offered during Semester 2.

Music Theory (0.5 credit):

Music Theory is an engaging and interactive class designed for students who want to deepen their understanding of music's fundamental concepts and enhance their musical skills - perfect for aspiring musicians, composers, and enthusiasts alike! Throughout the course, students will explore key topics including notation and rhythm, scales and intervals, harmony and chords, melody and form, composition, basic keyboard skills, ear training, performance practice, and audition preparation.

Guitar Lab (0.5 credit):

Guitar Lab introduces students to the fundamentals of both ukulele and guitar while fostering a lifelong appreciation for music. Through hands-on instruction, learners will develop basic techniques including chord formation, strumming patterns, and fingerpicking. Throughout the semester, students will participate in group jams, develop listening skills, and gain confidence through performance opportunities. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, this course is designed to cultivate your passion for the guitar. Guitars for use during class are supplied by the instructor, and students will be required to play both solo and in a large group.

Piano Lab (0.5 credit):

Piano Lab provides students an opportunity to learn foundational piano skills and techniques through study of various styles of music including popular and classical genres. Piano Lab is designed to develop the basic skills necessary to be a successful performer and overall musician through the study of music theory, vocabulary, historical references, performance opportunities and creative composition. This course can accommodate both students with little or no piano background, in addition to students who already play and would like to continue developing their piano performance skills. Students will be required to play both solo and in a large group.

Music Appreciation - American Popular Music (0.5 credit):

American Popular Music is one of the most influential and important genres of music in the world! In this course, students will explore pop music, beginning with the early influences of Rock & Roll, and spanning all the way to current chart toppers and popular artists. The class includes extensive listening, song breakdowns, projects, class discussions, and presentations. Students will gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of pop music, its influences, and how music has evolved over the past several decades. The genres covered include blues, rock & roll, funk, hip hop, punk, rock, grunge, and multiple pop influences. This course is designed for students who have a love and interest in music, but do not wish to participate in a performing ensemble.

Music Production & Technology (0.5 credit):

Music Production and Technology is designed to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and tools used in music production and sound design. Through a hands-on approach, students will explore various aspects of music technology including digital audio workstations (DAWs), MIDI sequencing, audio recording, and mixing techniques. Students will showcase their learning through projects that will require them to apply the skills acquired throughout the course including composition, recording, mixing, and presentation. No prior music technology experience is required, but a basic understanding of music theory is beneficial. Students should have a passion for music and a willingness to explore new technologies.