The Chorus & Orchestra Program
SUPPORTING MUSIC LEARNING

We are very excited about the music program at Three Oaks Middle School. The success we enjoy is a direct reflection of the students who participate in our music education curriculum. It is a particular delight to have your child as a part of our musical family.
There are many benefits that result from the study of music. The aesthetic joys of music making cannot be duplicated in any other art form; it is a communication unto itself. It also has been found that the study of music strengthens the mind's learning potential. The students who are part of a music program tend to achieve at higher levels in all areas of school. Simply put: music makes better students, and music makes students better. Ongoing research continues to offer dramatic statistics concerning young people who participate in their school music programs. In the 1997 publication, Profiles of SAT and Achievement Test Takers, (from The College Board), it was discovered that, "Students with course work experience in music performance scored 89 points higher on the SAT tests than students with no course work in the arts." This kind of information clearly and positively marks the future of our young musicians.
Parents need to know that their child's educational experience is designed to create a solid foundation. This foundation may be used for advanced education and, more importantly, as a training ground for developing successful life-patterns. The very qualities that are essential for success in business and education such as analytical skills, self-discipline, communication skills and creative thinking are the foundation blocks of our music program. What your child is learning in music is preparing him/her for a more prosperous and enjoyable life.

WHY SING IN A CHOIR?
WHY PLAY IN AN ORCHESTRA?

I believe that every child can learn, and extend that belief to the certainty that every child is musically expressive and deserves the opportunity to explore that capability. To that end, our program offers non-auditioned choirs for the hesitant music learner as well as challenging organizations for the highly skilled or gifted musician. Throughout the year we will address the individual by developing vocal/playing skills, increasing knowledge of his/her own instrument, developing music literacy and providing opportunities for solo performances. In addition, we will address the ensemble by developing group cohesiveness, building choral/instrumental skills and fostering pride in their participation.
Why is it so important for your child to be in Chorus or Orchestra? Music can:

• Provide a unique way of thinking.
• Act as a link between the past and the present.
• Lift the self-esteem of participants.
• Bring joy to both musician and audience.
• Provide a means of expressing thoughts, values and emotions through music that otherwise may be difficult to express through words.
• Provide teamwork, self-esteem, courage, support, leadership, respect, confidence, critical thinking, management skills, science, math, history, reading and language skills pertaining to music, assist with peer pressure, how music affects our world, culture and more!!!

Music is essential!

Three Oaks Middle School Chorus

Chorus is a three-year program. Students will have the opportunity to perform a wide range of material including: classical, seasonal, jazz, and musicals. All chorus students learn: how to read music, sight-sing, music theory and musicianship, ear training, basic piano skills, harmonization (2, 3 part mixed, SSA, a cappella, and accompanied), proper vocal techniques, tone production, composition, stage presence, and performance. Guest “master classes” will be available for students who would like to perform for local professional musicians. Chorus students will experience the possibility of singing with piano, classic guitar, music featuring band and chorus, music featuring orchestra and chorus, and both full concerts and intimate recital settings. Students will have the opportunity to participate in Solo & Ensemble, All County Chorus, All State Chorus, and out-of town competitions. Live and studio recordings will be available in the near future.

Three Oaks Orchestra

Orchestra is a three-year program. Students will have the opportunity to perform a wide range of material including classical, seasonal, blues, Broadway themes, and jazz. All orchestra students learn how to read music, play an instrument, proper technique, sight-read, music theory and musicianship, composition, ear training, stage presence, and performance. Guest “master classes” will be available for students who would like to perform for local professional musicians. Orchestra students will experience the possibility of playing with piano, classical guitar, music featuring band and orchestra, music featuring orchestra and chorus, and both full concerts and intimate recital settings. Students will have the opportunity to participate in Solo & Ensemble, Festival, All County Orchestra, All State Orchestra, and out-of town competitions. Live and studio recordings will be available in the near future. All instruments provided. Orchestra is challenging and FUN!

Three Oaks Middle School Guitar

Guitar - is a after school class open to all students at Three Oaks Middle School. Experience is not required. This course is designed to introduce the new student to the world of classical guitar music. The student will be introduced to basic guitar technique necessary to perform in an ensemble. Topics include: How to Play Your Instrument, Introduction To Reading Music, Basic Musicianship and Music Theory, Right and Left Hand Techniques, and performance standards. Students will learn basic Segovia classical guitar technique. Plectrums (pics) are not permitted. All instruments are supplied.