Frequently Asked Questions
Q: As a parent, how can I support my musician and the music program?
A: As a parent, you've already done a wonderful thing by empowering your student to participate in music! Now that we're beginning the school year, you can be of particular help by reading the newsletters that I send out from time to time, and by volunteering for events when I need them. Also, during these uncertain times and with some of our funding being structured differently, if you are able to help by donating to our organization, you can help us pay for things like instrument repairs and maintenance, new instruments, sheet music, transportation and fieldtrips, and coaching.
Q: How do I know what academic classes to sign up for?
A: This varies from student to student based upon the interests, academic goals, and grade level of the student. The best way to be sure is to look at the courses offered, the A-G course list, and Academic Planning guide provided by our Counselors. Please check out their website LINKED HERE.
Q: How do I know which music class to sign up for?
A: There is often confusion about which class to sign up for, so here's the DL on each of our classes:
- Chamber Orchestra: (Traditional Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, possibility of Harp, or Guitar) Students in this advanced orchestra should be very committed and familiar with their instrument (throughout its range). To be eligible to be in this ensemble, students MUST audition and be enrolled for all three trimesters. For other eligibility requirements, see Audition Information & Requirements at https://www.sagecreekmusic.org/chamber-orchestra.html.
The literature performed in this ensemble ranges from traditional orchestral classics to arrangements, and modern compositions. Due to its challenging nature, students are expected to commit to a minimum of 7 hours of personal practice time per week (one hour per day). While it is not a requirement, students are encouraged to receive private instruction on their instrument.
***On a case by case basis: if select students do not make the ensemble, but are close to the skill and dedication level, they may be allowed to enroll in the class as a "substitute". They would rehearse with the ensemble and perform if and when a substitute player is needed and possibly on some other occasions. Students who opt for this position are NOT Guaranteed the opportunity to perform with Chamber Orchestra, but may do so when combined String Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra Pieces. Note: This is a good option for students who are hoping to join the ensemble in full during the next audition cycle. For this option, students would be required to be enrolled for 1st and 2nd trimesters and minimum.
(Traditional Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, possibility of Harp, or Guitar) - String Orchestra: is our inclusive ensemble welcoming all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players. This relaxed setting allows students to explore orchestral repertoire while building confidence and camaraderie.
We perform at various school and community events throughout the year, including the annual Winter, Spring, and Pops Concerts. Leading up to these larger concerts, we may have some after-school rehearsals to prepare for combined performances with other ensembles.
(Traditional Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, possibility of Harp, or Guitar) - Wind Ensemble: (Traditional Instruments: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophones, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Percussion, possibility of Piano and String Bass). Wind Ensemble is the performing ensemble for band students. Due to the challenging nature of wind band literature, outside personal practice and learning of parts is required. Emphasis is placed on the acquisition and refinement of more advanced instrumental techniques. The type of literature performed is designed for a small ensemble and focuses primarily on contemporary music. Student involvement in concert and performance activities will be part of the grading process for this course. Periodically there are special events, rehearsals or concerts during non-school hours. Participation in such activities is an essential extension of the requirements
- Instrumental Music: Students enrolled in this class do not need to have prior musical experience, although some of our students will join with some prior knowledge and skill. While students perform for each other, in class, there is no requirement for students to perform in concerts with the performing ensemble students (although some opportunities do come up for motivated students).
The first trimester, students will learn the basics of reading music while learning to play hand percussion (African and Latin drumming), piano, ukulele, and guitar. They also learn to collaborate with other musicians in duets, quartets, and in larger ensembles. Although this is not a Performance-based class, students do perform for each other within the class. In addition to gaining skill and proficiency on the above instruments, students will learn the basics of music notation, tablature, and theory.
In second trimester, students will put their instrumental skills to use and will also learn some basic skills for music production, using music editing and sequencing software. Students will record, compose, arrange, mix, and master their projects to produce a finished musical project to be shared.
Students in this class are not required to participate in any after school events
Q: How can I ensure year-long (3 trimester enrollment) in music?
A: While the academic rigor of SCHS's trimester system can make it challenging to participate in music (and other interests) year round, being enrolled is definitely possible when it's important to the student and parents. Important things to help students achieve this are:
- Frequent and Clear communication with counselors and teachers. Self-advocacy is essential.
- Taking some classes (foreign languages, history, etc.) at local community colleges.
- After School Athletics in lieu of PE classes.
- Limit AP and Honors classes to those you are genuinely interested in (not just as many as possible for GPA).
- When there are schedule conflicts with music committments, communicate with Ms. Q proactively and work to find solutions when possible.
Q: How does it work if my child is unable to be in music all three trimesters?
A: While it is best for all members of the ensembles if students are able to stay in all three trimesters, I do know and understand that many of our students are highly intelligent and take a course load that is academically rigorous.
If they really wish to participate in a concert (when they are not currently enrolled), they must communicate with me in advance and commit to a certain number of rehearsals (potentially after-school). In addition, if they are needed more on a part that they typically don't play, they may be asked to fill in where most needed.
Drawbacks of missing a trimester (or two):
If they really wish to participate in a concert (when they are not currently enrolled), they must communicate with me in advance and commit to a certain number of rehearsals (potentially after-school). In addition, if they are needed more on a part that they typically don't play, they may be asked to fill in where most needed.
Drawbacks of missing a trimester (or two):
- Cannot participate in leadership
- Cannot be a section leader or concert master
- Cannot be a member of Chamber Orchestra
- Missed Rehearsal time and time with music family
- Your absence is felt by the entire ensemble (especially when many students miss the third trimester) -- ensembles suffer a loss of instrumentation.
- You may miss out on field trips, festivals, workshops, & Disneyland
- I / we will miss you : (
Q: Can a student be involved in the music program if they are unable to fit music classes in their class schedule?
A: If they are enrolled for at least part of the year, please see the above section. If the student could not fit music into their schedule at all and still want to be a part of the music program, they may be permitted to perform in concerts if they show intrinsic motivation to fully learn the music on their own and commit to after school rehearsals (for full orchestra performances).
Additional opportunities to play music outside of classes exists in Bobcat Beat (pep band), Jazz Combo, chamber groups like Cello Choir, and in teaching with YLME. For information on local honor groups in San Diego County and throughout So Cal, reach out to me directly.
Additional opportunities to play music outside of classes exists in Bobcat Beat (pep band), Jazz Combo, chamber groups like Cello Choir, and in teaching with YLME. For information on local honor groups in San Diego County and throughout So Cal, reach out to me directly.
Q: If I don't own an instrument, can the school provide me with one?
A: Yes. While our instruments are in limited supply, we do have a number of them for loaning. If we do not have enough of a given instrument, students may be asked to learn a new or comparable instrument that is available for loan. There is no charge for borrowing instruments, however students are responsible with any costs associated with damage, theft, or loss of the instrument while in their care.