top of page
-
Double Bass & Bass Guitar | Instructors: Mr. DelaneyProper finger technique and posture of double bass and Electric Bass Guitar, how to read tab and notation music, learn styles of different genres of music, perform at Winter recital, (optionional) perform special events. Join the M.S.M. symphony, Jazz band, Concert band, or our performance/improvisation class Daily Required Materials Course Objectives Applied lessons will be structured to introduce you to the study materials and solo literature for the double bass. Emphasis will be on teaching the fundamentals of performance and pedagogy. You will cover the following fundamentals: Scales and arpeggios, technical studies and etudes as assigned, focusing on specific areas: -positions and shifting -bowing styles: detache, martele, staccato, spiccato, ricochet, sautille -agility and strength of left hand -development of sound- vibrato and dynamic control. Standard Repertoire from all periods of music -Musicianship (appropriate stylistic approach to each piece) - Beauty of tone -Accuracy in rhythm -Accuracy in intonation -Technique Learning to approach your instrument in a way that is as relaxed and tension –free as possible, reducing the risk of injury A portion of the student’s daily Practice/Preparation will be determined based on bringing the following required materials to class. Textbook – Essential Elements for Strings - Book 1 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Double Bass 1 – for Strings I or Beginning Students Essential Elements for Strings - Book 2 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Double Bass 2 – for Strings II or Intermediate Students Essential Elements for Strings - Book 3 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Double Bass 3 – for Strings III or Advance students Mr. Delaney will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the session. The book can be purchased or ordered at Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or from Amazon. Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1
-
Voice | Instructors: Ms. Mollett and Ms. LovendahlVocal class and M.S.M. is designed to improve each student's singing voice and develop the ability to sing successfully in front of others and a audience.. During their course of study, they will be taught the fundamentals of healthy vocal production which includes the following: 1) proper posture and breathing to sing, 2) tone production, 3) diction, 4) expression, and 5) gaining confidence. Individual vocal problems will be assessed and exercises will be given to help strengthen and improve the voice. Students will be singing together and also individually for class. We will help you become a vocalist. Murphys Choir brings the community voices together. Learning what tone and range they are, learning stage presents performing in school events and community events. Caroling in the Holiday Season. Requirements Hal Leonard Essential Repertoire for the M.S.M. Concert Choir Hal Leonard The Tipbook Series - Vocals Ms. Mollett will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the session. The book can be purchased or ordered by her or, Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or might not have them in stock. Call before you go. The number for the store is (209) 728-8687. You can order online through Amazon or ebay Each book can be purchased or ordered with an optional CD. While this is not required, it may be helpful to students who would like to hear how the songs go, and practice along. Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1 Pencil & Paper – provided by the student Class Choir/vocalist Folder – provided by the student Additional Music – additional music will occasionally be specified by the instructor. Instruments- must be provided by student. Instrument or microphone rentals and purchases at Murphys Music Company or Live Oak Music in Sonora, or online instrument rentals are available.
-
Strings | Instructors: Mz. TusseyLearn proper finger technique and posture, how to tune & string your instrument, learn to read string music, ear training for correct pitch to work as a group, and become a violinist. M.S.M. goal is to teach strings effectively at the primary, first and secondary and/or elementary, high school and college levels and beyond. High performance levels and mastery of the instrument can be achieved as well as an understanding of the process necessary to achieve this level. Students must attain knowledge of the various string methods and repertoire available to learn . Repertoire will follow that of the performance in the class with adjustments made for student’s ability at time of entry into the M.S.M. symphony. Prerequisite for M.S.M. symphony: intermediate to advanced ability on the violin, viola, cello and double bass demonstrated at the audition in accordance with the audition, performances, and special events required. Daily Required Materials A portion of the student’s daily Practice/Preparation will be determined based on bringing the following required materials to class. Textbook – Essential Elements for Strings - Book 1 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Violin, Viola, Cello 1 – for Strings I or Beginning Students Essential Elements for Strings - Book 2 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Violin, Viola, Cello 2 – for Strings II or Intermediate Students Essential Elements for Strings - Book 3 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Violin, Viola, Cello 3 – for Strings III or Advance students The instructor will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the session. The book can be purchased or ordered at Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or might not have them in stock. Call before you go. The number for the store is (209) 728-8687. Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1
-
Hand Drumming & Percussion | Mr. Logoteta and Mr. BeekenTeaches african, India, and Latin rhythms as a ensemble, improves strength and ability, how to count, feel, and read rhythms from around the world, how to properly hold the percussion/hand drum, identify each drum and percussion where it comes from, and become a hand drummer/percussionist. Requirements: Must bring own hand drum to the class or percussion instrument. Instruments- M.S.M. is limited on hand drums and percussion, must be provided by student. Percussion and hand drum rentals can be obtained through Murphys Music Company or Live Oak Music in Sonora, or online instrument rentals are available. Mr. Madrid or Mr. Logoteta will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased or ordered by the student by end of January so that the student can bring it to class by February. Unless you are taking a beginners class. M.S.M. Group Hand Drumming Method Book 1 will be provided. The advance or intermediate book can be purchased or ordered at Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or might not have them in stock. Call before you go. The number for the store is (209) 728-8687. You can order online through Amazon or ebay Each book can be purchased or ordered with an optional CD. While this is not required, it may be helpful to students who would like to hear how the songs go, and practice alone. Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1
-
Piano | Instructors: Ms. Mollett and Mr. RamirezClass piano is designed to teach the concepts and fundamentals needed to perform on the piano. It will increase musical understanding beyond just reading notes by teaching students a vocabulary of chords and keys, accompaniment patterns, and improvisational techniques. Students will play melodies in several positions and have the opportunity to participate in ensemble playing, end of season recitals, accompaniments for other musicians, and special events in the community. Students will develop good practice habits, and learn techniques to increase the muscular agility and flexibility of their hands. We will delve into music at its source, find out how music is constructed, and discover the composers and history behind the music. Coming soon to M.S.M., through the use of the M.S.M. MIDI Laptop Lab station*, students will have the opportunity to explore music technology, and its applications to composition, arrangement, and even recording industry techniques. At the completion of this course, the student will have learned to play some of the standards of piano repertoire while gaining a thorough understanding of the history and basic concepts of music. The piano is a performance instrument, and the primary goal of this course is for students to become competent, independent performers on the piano. For this reason, students will be assessed largely based on their performances on the piano. It is equally important that a student develop the skills, discipline, and determination to prepare for a performance, therefore an equal portion of the will be derived from how well the student prepares and uses his or her practice time. Because not everyone has a piano at home, home practice is optional; however, students should come to class every day prepared to get the most out of the practice time they are given in class. Course Outcomes – Students will be able to: 1. Follow classroom procedures regarding practice and instruction. 2. Demonstrate basic competencies of piano performance in the areas of tone production, technique, and phrasing. 3. Identify music notation and symbols relative to the level of proficiency 4. Identify basic musical forms within learned pieces. 5. Identify proper performance habits. Daily Required Materials A portion of the student’s daily Practice/Preparation will be determined based on bringing the following required materials to class. Textbook – Alfred’s Basic Adult or children’s All-In-One Level 1 – for Piano I or Beginning Students Alfred’s Basic Adult or children’s All-In-One Level 2 – for Piano II or Intermediate Students Alfred’s Basic Adult or children’s All-In-One Level 3 – for Piano III or Advanced Students Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1 Mrs. Bradley or Ms. Mollett will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the session. The book can be purchased or ordered at Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or might not have them in stock. Call before you go. The number for the store is (209) 728-8687 Each book can be purchased or ordered with an optional CD. You can order online on Amazon and ebay. While this is not required, it may be helpful to students who would like to hear how the songs go, and practice along.
-
Drum Kit & Drumline | Instructors: Mr. LogotetaHow to Play Drums By Ear This module covers everything you need to start playing the drums for the very first time. No sheet music or theory is required. Everything is taught by ear. Topics in the module include: getting started, drum kit setup, posture, grip, basic foot technique, basic drum beats, basic drum fills, using a metronome, and playing along with a song. How to Practice Efficiently Practicing is an essential part of learning to play the drums. And this section is all about providing you with the information you need to create a balanced practice routine. It works hand-in-hand with the Practice Routine Generator (included in the workbooks) and covers topics like: why we practice, practicing tips and tricks, structuring practices, the casual schedule, the motivated schedule, the dedicated schedule, and more. Drum Theory & Notation Many drummers are intimidated by the concept of learning to read and write dm notation. This is due to the fact that drum theory is often seen as being very complicated and challenging. In this module, Mr Logoteta makes learning theory and notation easy by breaking things down into simple steps. You'll learn how to read and write basic drum beats, and then move on to more complicated patterns. It's all designed in a progressive way to make things fun. Daily Required Materials A portion of the student’s daily Practice/Preparation will be determined based on bringing the following required materials to class. Textbook – Essential Elements for Drums and Percussion - Book 1 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard percussion and drums 1 – for Concert bandI or Beginning Students Essential Elements for Drums and Percussion - Book 2 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard percussion and drums 2 – for Concert Band II or Intermediate Students Essential Elements for Percussion and Drums - Book 3 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard percussion and drums 3 – for Concert Band III or Advance students Mr. Logoteta will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the session. The book can be purchased or ordered at Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or might not have them in stock. Call before you go. The number for the store is (209) 728-8687. You can order online through Amazon or ebay Each book can be purchased or ordered with an optional CD. While this is not required, it may be helpful to students who would like to hear how the songs go, and practice along. Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1 Pencil & Paper – provided by the student Drum Class Folder – provided by the student Additional Music – additional music will occasionally be specified by the instructor. Drumline snares and percussion- must be provided by student. M.S.M. is limited marching snares and marching percussion rentals at Murphys Music Company or Live Oak Music in Sonora, or online instrument rentals are available.
-
Keyboard | Instructors: Mr. BeekenFinger technique, learning the functions of synthetic sounds and tones. Learn how to use a performance synthesizer with tons of tweakable tones and effects. For the composers,learn how to use the arranger keyboards that can offer higher-quality sounds with sophisticated backing tracks, you will learn the keyboards tools for layering tracks and recording your own music right within the keyboard. learn keyboard settings, splitting synth tones on one keyboard, learn the drum machine, perform at our end of Winter Recital, optional special events, and become a keyboardist Keyboard synths- Students will use digital pianos.. It is expected that each student will treat the school instruments with respect and do their utmost to prevent damage. Each student and his or her parent / guardian are responsible for the condition of the assigned instrument. If an instrument is damaged due to student negligence, it is the student and parent / guardian’s responsibility to pay for the repair or replacement of the instrument. Daily Required Materials A portion of the student’s daily Practice/Preparation will be determined based on bringing the following required materials to class. Textbook – The Keyboard Primer Book for Beginners with DVD by Lee Davis Level 1 – for keyboard I or Beginning Students The Keyboard Primer Book for Intermediate with DVD by Lee Davis Level 2 – for keyboard II or Intermediate Students The Keyboard Primer Book for Advance with DVD by Lee Davis Level 3 – for Keyboard III or Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1 Advanced Students Mr. Beeken or Mr Frazier will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the session. The book can be purchased or ordered at Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or might not have them in stock. Call before you go. The number for the store is (209) 728-8687. You can order online through Amazon or ebay Each book can be purchased or ordered with an optional CD. While this is not required, it may be helpful to students who would like to hear how the songs go, and practice along. Pencil & Paper – provided by the student Class Piano/keyboard Folder – provided by the student Additional Music – additional music will occasionally be specified by the instructor. Headphones – required. We do not provide headphones Keyboard synth - we are limited on keyboards but you can rent from Murphys Music Company, Live Oak Music in Sonora, or online the musician rentals.
-
Beginner's Music Theory | Instructors: Mr. Beeken and Mr. RamirezThis is course that teaches a wide array of musical concepts. Along with music theory and beginning composition the students also deal with aural skills, dictation, and sight singing. Students learn the basics of music notation and score analysis along with knowledge of basic tonal harmony. Includes the eighteenth century common practice period style. The ultimate goal of the course is to develop a student’s ability to recognize, understand, analyze, and describe the aspects and processes of music that is heard or seen on a score. Students engage in a variety of written, singing, and compositional exercises that teach them the many aspects of musical composition and analysis. The focus is on learning the foundational principles of music theory that lead to aptitude in analysis and beginning composition. The primary goal of the course is to prepare students to take this knowledge and use it in a musical forms of life. Theory exam that is offered toward the end of the season. Students who pass receive a certificate of completion. However it will not be earned as college credit at a number of colleges and universities. While not all students will likely attain this level of success, the instruction and practice in this course will serve to greatly enhance and improve a student’s ability to comprehend, analyze, and notate music in a traditional style and maybe beyond. Objectives for M.S.M. Music Theory course will emphasize a mastery in the rudiments and terminology of music through an understanding of the Elements of Music, listed as Sound (Pitch, Dynamics, Timbre); Performance Media (Voice and Instruments); Rhythm and Meter; Music Notation (pitches, intervals, scales); Melody; Harmony (chordal structure); Key (modes); Musical Texture; Musical Form; Musical Style (through historical contexts) Advanced skills will be incorporated through more sophisticated and creative skills, listed as Melodic and Harmonic Dictation; Composition of a bass line for a given melody, implying appropriate harmony; Realization of a figured bass; Realization of a Roman numeral progression; Analysis of repertoire, including melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, and form; Sight-singing simple melodies (Major and Minor keys) We will emphasize aural and visual identification of procedures based in common-practice tonality, listed as Functional triadic harmony in traditional four-voice texture (with vocabulary including nonharmonic tones, seventh chords, and secondary dominants); Cadences; Melodic and harmonic compositional processes (e.g., sequence, motivic development); Standard rhythms and meters; Phrase structure (e.g., contrasting period, phrase group); Small forms (e.g., rounded binary, simple ternary, theme and variation, strophic); Modulation to closely related keys The development of aural skills is a primary objective of the M.S.M. Music Theory course. Throughout the course, students should listen to musical works attentively and analytically, developing their musical memory and their ability to articulate responses to formal, stylistic, and aesthetic qualities of the works. Sight-singing is the only performance skill that is directly tested by M.S.M.. Fluency and quickness with basic materials are essential. Students will be required to do weekly ear training either using online technology, computer and smartphone app
-
Acoustic Guitar | Instructors: Mr. RamirezFinger technique and holding the guitar, learn to read music, learn and play chords, learn lead and rhythm, understanding the mechanisms of the acoustic guitar, learn to perform in front of a audience, recital at the end of Winter season, optional perform special events Requirements Pencil & Paper – provided by the student Class Acoustic Guitar Folder – provided by the student Additional Music – additional music will occasionally be specified by the instructor. Instrument- M.S.M. is limited on guitars, must be provided by student. Acoustic Guitar rentals at Murphys Music Company or Live Oak Music in Sonora, or online instrument rentals are available. Mr. Hillman will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the session. The advance or intermediate book can be purchased or ordered at Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or might not have them in stock. Call before you go. The number for the store is (209) 728-8687. You can order online through Amazon or ebay. Each book can be purchased or ordered with an optional CD. While this is not required, it may be helpful to students who would like to hear how the songs go, and practice along. Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1
-
Jazz Band - Woodwinds & Brass | Instructors: Mr. BeekenTeaches proper posture and finger technique for your instrument, healthy breathing methods, how to read music, MS.M. brass & woodwinds classes are open to the whole community.. No prior experience is required for Beginning Concert Band. Instruments are provided free of charge but limited. We will work with you on instrument rentals. , although there are some minor costs associated with playing a reed or percussion instrument. Students are given the opportunity to learn how to properly assemble, play, and care for their choice of the following instruments: FLUTE, OBOE, BASSOON, CLARINET, SAXOPHONE, TRUMPET, FRENCH HORN, TROMBONE, BARITONE, TUBA, AND PERCUSSION The director and student work together to select an instrument which is appropriate for the student. There are a limited number of each instrument available. ALL INSTRUMENTS ARE IMPORTANT FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE CONCERT BAND, JAZZ, AND MARCHING BAND! Course instruction includes fundamentals in reading music, tone production, proper breathing, hand position, listening skills, and performance etiquette. The Beginning and Adv/inter Band participates in end of season recitals special events and concerts optional. With the director’s recommendation, students who show very high ability in Beginning Band may move up to Advanced Band in the Spring Semester! Auditions for M.S.M. symphony, advance concert and jazz band, and marching band A prerequisite for M.S.M. symphony, advance Concert and Jazz band, and advance Marching band. The students ability to demonstrated at the audition in accordance with the audition, Please note that home practice is required of all band members. Parent support for children and adults can make a little time is needed and appreciated. Using practice rooms must be booked one week in advance Please read the PRACTICE PLAN I am proud of offering instrumental music classes that are both challenging and fun. Although BAND and STRINGS are electives in school but not for much longer, you should know that there is a rigorous curriculum which is driven by state and national standards for music education. Home practice is the key to success Students are expected to bring their instruments home to practice. Most assessments in Band and String class are performance-based. Students are asked to demonstrate their mastery of basic skills and their understanding of how to read music notation. They receive instruction on how to practice for success. The lessons are sequential, pacing is appropriate and they have sufficient time to prepare for each assessment. As part of the assessment process, students are asked to use their iPads to record themselves at home. This engages students in a“stress-free” way of showing their best effort, as well as being an excellent tool for self-evaluation. It's also fun! Although some students make excuses for not practicing (too much“other”homework, after school sports, etc.), they need to learn to budget their time so they have enough time for practicing. Students are encouraged to develop a PRACTICE PLAN, where they make time for practicing as part of their weekly schedule. Learning to manage their time helps students become successful in everything they do! I am asking for your support at home by helping your student develop a practice plan. Encouraging them to practice often will ensure their success in band or String class.The group’s success depends on the contribution of every individual. Remember, the goal is PROGRESS, not perfection. A portion of the student’s daily Practice/Preparation will be determined based on bringing the following required materials to class. Textbook – Essential Elements for woodwind or brass instrument of your choice - Book 1 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Concert band 1 – for Woodwinds and Brass I or Beginning Students Essential Elements for woodwind or brass instrument of your choice Book 2 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Woodwinds or Brass 2 – for Concert band II or Intermediate Students Essential Elements for woodwind or brass instrument of your choice - Book 3 (Original Series): with DVD by Hal Leonard Woodwind or Brass 3 – for Concert band III or Advance students Jazz band Real Books by Hal Leonard I, II, III Bb, Eb, C, F depending on your instrument M.S.M. Order Materials: https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/GSXX7EPZTWY6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1 Marching band sheet music will be provided by Murphys School of Music and the Old Minner’s Marching Band and Lot of 5 Marching Band Sheet Music Books Hal Leonard, Easy Pop Series,Step lot10. M.S.M. Marching Band classes are outside in M.S.M. parking lot. Except the1st two classes and rain/snow Band Requirements Pencil & Paper – provided by the student Woodwinds or Brass class Folder – provided by the student Additional Music – additional music will occasionally be specified by the instructor. Instruments - M.S.M. is limited on woodwinds, brass, and marching gear. Instrument or marching percussion must be provided by student. Woodwind and Brass rentals at Murphys Music Company, Live Oak Music in Sonora, or online instrument rentals are available. Mr. Beeken (Mr.B) will assist you with selecting the appropriate book for your level of proficiency. The textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the session. The advance or intermediate book can be purchased or ordered at Murphys Music Company the Music Store (near Chevron Gas Station), but they only keep a limited number in stock or might not have them in stock. Call before you go. The number for the store is (209) 728-8687. You can order online through Amazon or ebay Each book can be purchased or ordered with an optional CD. While this is not required, it may be helpful to students who would like to hear how the songs go, and practice along.
bottom of page