Description of Courses
A Cappella Choir is open to students in grades 9-12 who have previously completed at least one year of choir either at Hillwood or another school. This class will develop skills in vocal production and music literacy through preparing music for the required two school concerts.
The
Hillwood Concert Band is open to beginners and experienced musicians. The band
is a collective which explores traditional and contemporary repertoire. In
addition to winter and spring concerts, the band also travels around the
community putting on performances. Students also have the option to perform in
the Football/Basketball Pep Bands. We focus on becoming stronger musicians,
better humans, and having fun!
Chamber Choir is Hillwood’s auditioned choir open to students in grades 10-12 who have completed one year in A Cappella Choir or Mixed Chorus AND have approval from Mr. Merideth. In this class, students will sing a wide variety of advanced choral music in two school concerts per year, MTVA concert festival and some performances in the community.
Dance classes at Hillwood range from classes for beginners as well as dance ensemble for students with previous dance experience. Courses are taught similarly to a studio dance course, and students also learn about the history and genres of dance. Students may take one year of dance for either a fine arts or PE credit or continue to take dance throughout high school. All dance students participate in at least one performance per year.
Mixed Chorus is open to any student in grades 9-12 who is interested in learning how to sing through games and activities that encourage proper vocal production, matching pitch, music literacy and working together as a team. Students will be required to observe both school concerts.
Orchestra is a class open to students in grades 9-12 who play violin, viola, cello, or upright bass. Previous experience on a string instrument is required. This class meets to develop rudimentary instrumental skills, develop a strong sense of ensemble and prepare music for the two school concerts and MTSBOA concert performance assessment. These performances will feature a diverse selection of music spanning all genres. Private lessons are also strongly encouraged but not required.
The rock band program develops a modern approach to music education providing students with a unique opportunity to become performers, improvisers, and leaders while engaging with the music they love. Students will explore culturally significant artists and learn about their impact on music and society. Each student will have the opportunity to learn guitar, bass, piano, drum kit, and vocals.
String Ensemble is a select performing group open to students in grades 9-12 who have approval from Mr. Merideth. This group will be utilized in performances around the community in addition to combining for larger orchestral works with Orchestra for the two school concerts and MTSBOA concert performance assessment. An expectation of preparing advanced music outside of class is expected. Literature options for this group will extend into Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Modern, and the Avant Garde in addition to selections with Orchestra. Private lessons are also strongly encouraged but not required.
The Hillwood High School Theatre department offers students a variety of opportunities to get involved. In class, students explore everything from performance and technical designs to history and career opportunities. Students with limited space in their schedules are encouraged to join the Hilltop Players (Drama Club) and participate in our mainstage productions. Students who excel in Theatre Arts can earn a membership to the International Thespian Society, an honorary organization that recognizes student achievement in the theatre arts.