Music

MUSIC PROGRAMS AT WILLARD

For all grades, music is offered at Willard during zero period, before school from 7:45-8:30 AM:

Orchestra (6th,7th,8th): This course is for string players who have played before. It includes various bowing techniques and a study of orchestral literature from all periods. Students study many styles of music including classical, show tunes, and fiddle tunes. Activities include school concerts, festivals, and field trips. Director Randella Jones, randellajones@berkeley.net

Concert Band (6th) & Symphonic Band (7th, 8th): These bands are open to students who play brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments. The courses will stress improving techniques as well as expanding students’ music reading ability. Many styles of music are included, from classical to band repertoire to jazz and pop. There are opportunities to learn and improvise in the jazz idiom. Activities include school concerts, festivals, and field trips. Concert Band Director Roland Brown, rolandbrown@berkeley.net; Symphonic Band Director Bryan Marquez, bryanmarquez@berkeley.net.

Jazz Band (after school, T/F 3-4 PM): Band students who are interested are eligible to try out for the Willard Jazz Band program. This smaller jazz combo plays at school concerts, festivals, and special performances at venues like Yoshi’s and Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse. Director Roland Brown, rolandbrown@berkeley.net.

Chorus: The Willard chorus is all about singing and making music together while having fun. This class emphasizes the fundamentals of vocal technique and performances of a varied repertoire of choral music with the possibility of accompanying with percussion, body percussion and sometimes other instruments. No musical experience necessary. Singers of all levels will learn to improve their music reading skills as well as their vocal ability. Activities include school concerts, festivals, and field trips. Director Aimee Lubalin, aimeelubalin@berkeley.net.