Benefits of Music

Music stimulates the creative mind and unleashes multidimensional thinking that reinforces the highest level of intellect, memory and sensory awareness.  Studies and statistics highlight a dramatic variance that cannot be ignored from SAT test scores of students involved in music classes compared to those who not involved.  Being involved in music teaches life skills that are beyond the rehearsal hall and the concert stage.  These skills include but are not limited to: commitment, time management, attention to detail, memorization, focus, teamwork and discipline.  Learning music also builds self-esteem, improves academic performance, and provides spiritual growth.

Course Offerings

High School Band
High School Band provides students with an opportunity to further advance technical facility, tone, intonation, phrasing, and general musicianship through the exploration and performance of a wide variety of styles of music. Skills will be increased through sectionals. Teamwork and working towards a common goal in preparation for concerts and music events fosters self-discipline and a challenge for the pursuit of excellence. The ACS band program has a two-fold purpose: to glorify God by ministering to our audiences, and it fosters relationships and fellowship for all who participate. Students participating in band are required to perform at Veterans Day, Christmas and Spring concerts, field trips, and MCS Music Festival, Fine Arts Showcase, and pep band. Equipment for participating is the student’s responsibility. Open to grades 9, 10, 11, 12. Must have at least 2 years experience in a junior high band, or teacher permission.

High School Band-Honors Credit Option
Students wanting to participate in the High School Band with Honors Credit will participate in the Aurora Christian High School band and have the opportunity to enhance their instrumental skills, deepen their understanding of music theory, and participate in a wide variety of challenging and rewarding musical performances.

Honors credit students are expected to demonstrate advanced musicality, leadership, and self-discipline, both during rehearsals and in their individual practice routines. In addition to weekly rehearsals, students will audition for ILMEA, complete weekly theory assignments, attend performances by professional ensembles and complete a research paper on a topic to be agreed upon by the teacher and student.  Participation in all performances, including concerts and festivals, is a key component of the course.  Students will be evaluated on their technical skill, musical expression, and commitment to the ensemble. As an honors-level course, students will be challenged to exceed basic expectations and will have opportunities for growth in music theory, ear training, and conducting. This course is ideal for students seeking to advance their musicianship in a collaborative and challenging environment while earning honors credit toward their high school diploma.  The course fee for this class is $12.
Open to grades 10-12 – Prerequisites: Earned a 94% or above in band the previous school year, attended all performances the previous year and Director approval

High School Choir
Choir is designed to teach basic music skills, including note reading, sight singing, and ear training. It will familiarize the student with a variety of musical styles and literature. Choir will provide many opportunities which the student may draw from as he/she continues to enjoy music throughout life. It is the goal of the choir experience to enable each student to participate in ensemble singing with excellence and to encourage a feeling of self-worth in the student.  Choir performances are mandatory and include the Veterans Day, Christmas and Spring concerts, field trips, the MCS Music Festival and Fine Art Showcase. Additional performances may be added during the school day.  Concert clothing and a choir t-shirt are purchased through the school and usable from year to year.  Open to grades 9, 10, 11, 12.