Elective Classes, Spring 2008

Exploratory classes and special ensembles vary in length, from one-half to a full hour long. Students may sign up for a maximum of two electives, depending on the length of their orchestra/guitar rehearsals and the class schedule. Please note that some classes/ensembles have restricted enrollment based on a student’s orchestra/guitar level. All Level I students of violin/viola, cello, or guitar, must sign up for Basic Music Skills for one of their electives (check with WKSA staff if you are already proficient at reading music). Classes with limited enrollment will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. Classes without sufficient enrollment will be cancelled. If you have a question about Level recommendations, contact Cathy Drabkin.

Levels Key: A=Advanced Orch; I=Intermediate Orch.; B=Beginner Orch. V1=Violin/Viola, Level I; V2=Violin/Viola, Level II; V3=Violin/Viola, Level III; C1=Cello, Level I; C2=Cello, Level II; G1=Guitar, Level I; G2=Guitar, Level II; G3=Guitar, Level III

Basic Music Skills

Instructor: Chris Johnson
Designed for beginners learning to read and play music, this class will focus on reading of notes and rhythms. Activities will include movement to music, singing, and simple composition. REQUIRED FOR ALL LEVEL I CLASSES OF VIOLIN/VIOLA, CELLO, AND GUITAR

Music of India

Instructor: Chris Johnson
Chris Johnson, returning from a 4-week trip to Nepal, will focus on the music of India this semester. Treat your ears to new and unusual sounds, as you learn about and listen to the music of this vast country. Open to all level students.

iPod/YouTube Exchange

Instructor: Trevor Duell
Want to know what your fellow WKSA students are listening to on their iPods? Or what cool videos they've found on YouTube? This student-run class will allow you to share music and music-related videos with each other. The instructor will serve as the Grand-Poobah of Appropriate Material, and class moderator. Open to any student in 6th grade or above.

Computer Composing

Instructor: Trevor Duell
Have you ever wanted to write your own music?! Here's your chance to use the FHSU Music Computer lab and composing software to write your own music. Students will be guided in composing theory as they write/arrange their own pieces. Note: Only 7 students per class. Levels: V3, B, I, A, G3

Deserted Isle Playlist

Instructor: Trevor Duell
If you were marooned on a deserted island, what music would you want on your playlist?! In this class, we'll spend time listening to famous works, talking about why and how they move us, why they're great after so many years, and what you might put on your own deserted isle playlist! Recommended Levels: Students in 5th grade and under.

Beginning Drumming

Instructor: Jared Henson
Rhythm is the heartbeat of music, giving it life, mood, direction, cohesiveness, and character. In this class we'll have fun using FHSU's percussion instruments, trying our hands at various styles of drumming while developing and refining our own sense of rhythm. (If you've always wanted to "play the drums", here's your chance!) Levels: VI, VII, VIII, CI, CII, GI, GII

Fiddling Tunes of North-Central Kansas (1 hour)

Instructor: Shawn Demuth and Peggy Anschutz
Peggy Anschutz, a long-time, active fiddler and a retired music teacher, has compiled tunes of North-Central Kansas and South-Central Nebraska from her youth at dances and shindigs. She and Shawn will be teaching these tunes and working them up for community performances. The class may also take a field trip to Russell, to observe and perhaps join in on a regular jam session at the Deines Cultural Center. Levels: B, I, A, G3, or by permission.

Percussion Ensemble (1 hour)

Instructor: Jared Henson
This class moves beyond the basics of rhythm and technique training covered in Beginning Drumming. Students will develop playing skills on a variety of FHSU percussion instruments, and work towards performing as part of a percussion ensemble. Levels: G3, B, I, A, or by permission.

Rock Band (1 hour)

Instructor: Alex Heisler
Open to String, Guitar & Drum players--BY AUDITION.

This semester's rock class will focus on creating a solid, unified ensemble and rock sound. Enrollment will be limited to 5-8 students, depending on instruments needed. Students will have input into music selection, and in creating an overall group identity. Students must be able to provide their own electric instruments/amps, and demonstrate a strong desire to make the group succeed. Contact Cathy for audition music/questions.

Jazz Imrpov Ensemble

Instructor: Jonathan Yust
This element of surprise makes jazz fun to play and listen to! In this performance class, we’ll listen to different styles of jazz, and then try playing it ourselves--swinging tunes, improvising solos, and laying down grooves. Previous experience not required—you just need to be adventurous and willing to take a risk! Levels: I, A, G3, or by permission.