Governors Honors Program Information

Instructional Description

The Governor’s Honors Program Music department consists of seven areas – piano, vocal, strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion, and jazz. The curriculum is performance oriented and emphasizes ensemble skills. Ensembles range in size from duets and trios to large groups such as orchestra, wind ensemble, and mixed choir. Students interested in GHP music must excel in their performance medium.

Students learn about elements of musical theory, analysis, criticism, history and aesthetics in an artistic and supportive environment. Students are afforded several recital and concert opportunities in which to display the results of their studies. Students have the opportunity to participate in a weekly rotation of enrichment courses designed to expose the student to different facets within the field of music, including: conducting, music theory, history of jazz, and survey of 20th century music. Students also participate in final projects, such as a multitude of solo or ensemble performances.

Opportunities for students usually include:

• Practicing/rehearsing individually and in ensembles directed by students and/or faculty. Performing in both formal and informal settings.
• Co-developing performance projects with other majors (music and dance, music and art). Analyzing and critiquing music repertoire from antiquity to the present day.
• Attending concerts presented by other students.
• Engaging in creation of music through improvisation and composition.

By the end of the program, students will have established a basis for understanding how to study, prepare and perform music in a variety of styles and settings. They will be familiar with standard literature for their voice or instrument, be able to demonstrate in performance the historical context and formal structure in the standard literature of each period, and will have increased skills in tone production and technique needed to perform this progressive literature at a standard acceptable level.

Criteria for Selection

GHP Music applicants should be motivated to improve their performance technique, musical abilities, and hone their self-reflective criticism to prepare for a collegiate program of study. Students are also expected to demonstrate integrity and respect for others at all times during their participation in the program. This includes full participation in all aspects of the program and adherence to all rules, regulations, and expectations as set forth and interpreted by the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement (GOSA).

Academic Record:?

• Strong academic record is preferred. Student should have completed prior coursework or be currently enrolled in at least one music ensemble (or have received sufficient instruction) for consideration as a finalist.

Skills:

• ?Strong instrument/vocal performance skills.
• ?Experience playing in groups as well as playing solo. ?
• Extremely skilled at sight-reading.
• Students must be able to cope with a demanding practice and performance schedule.
• Strong candidates are positive self-starters who are able to work toward independent mastery in a short time frame. They are comfortable working with others in group environments, be able to adequately and honestly self- assess. They will also have strong sight reading skills and overall musicianship.

• ?Semi-finalists in Music Vocal Only must?
  • Possess the prerequisite vocal skills to be selected for participation in honors choruses – all state honors chorus, district honors chorus, or a school honors chorus.
  • Have a solid foundation of vocal technique, performance, and sight- reading skills at a level higher than average.

• ? Strong candidates have visible evidence of motivation and curiosity that drives their interest in participating in musical opportunities outside of those in the regular school day. (e.g., youth orchestra, youth band, jazz band, garage band, ensemble, glee club, chorus, etc.).
• Interested in learning about music in a more in-depth manner than the average student.
• The most successful candidates constantly strive for improvement, are willing to try something new or different, and respond well to instruction, criticism, praise, and adversity.

Interview ? Expectations:

• ?Semi-finalists must be able to articulate their particular goals, are able to play their selection in tune, and can sight-read with excellent technique at a level higher than average.
• Semi-finalists should be able to be specific about constructive criticism, techniques, and topics they have learned in music class and/or lessons, and be able to self-identify areas for growth in their performance and technique.