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Denley Arce teaches several levels of Band and Music Exploration at WSMS. Our young musicians can take part in Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Levels of Band, as well as Music Exploration, as elective classes at WSMS.

Music Exploration
This course is a semester-long arts course designed for scholars who are
interested in learning about music. Throughout the semester, students will explore many different aspects of basic music theory, such as learning how to read notes, rhythms, ukulele/guitar tabs, chord sheets, etc. In addition, we will explore various instruments such as the ukulele, guitar, drums, percussion and piano/keyboard. We also explore various genres of music, old and new to apply our knowledge of music theory and instruments to dive deep into what we hear in music. Scholars will also get opportunities to explore their own interests while connecting them to things we learn in the class.

Band
These classes are designed to develop individual & group skills in playing band instruments, explore band music from a variety of musical styles & eras, develop each student's overall musicianship. Students with no experience with band instruments are welcome to join, but should come to the first class with an idea of what instruments they would like to play.

As a performance class, Intermediate Band members can expect to be involved in 2-3 evening performances throughout the year, and to march in the Junior Rose Parade, or perhaps 1 or 2 other possible field trips. As a performance class, Concert Band members can expect to be involved in 2-3 evening performances throughout the year plus possible performance-oriented field trips. Intermediate Band members will be eligible for nomination for the Oregon All State Middle School Honor Band and the ½ûÂþÌìÌà Middle School Honor Band, and will be encouraged to participate in the ½ûÂþÌìÌà Middle School Solo and Small Ensemble Festival during the year.

To donate to the Music Program, please go to SchoolPay at this link: