Music Department - University of Detroit Jesuit

The Music Department at U of D Jesuit is recognized as one of the finest programs in the state of Michigan. Course offerings include three bands, two choirs, orchestra, 20th Century Music History and Honors Music Theory classes. The performing groups have traveled to Florida, Hawaii, Washington D.C., New York, Chicago and many other locations.

Courses in Performing Arts

Concert Band (1 credit)

This full-year course is open to students in grades 7, 8 and 9. This course is open to any student who wishes to learn how to play wind or percussion instruments without any prior experience. It is also for students who have only one or two previous years of band experience. Participation, improvement, and individual practice throughout the year determine grades. The students will also have a few chances to perform in various concerts held during the year.

Prerequisite: Students will be required to purchase books and will be responsible for providing their own instrument.

There is a $25 materials fee for this course.

Symphonic Band (1 credit)

This full-year course is open to students in grades 9-12.

The Symphonic Band also acts as the Marching Band during the fall. Students are required to participate in a pre-season band camp and all home football games. Following the football season, the Symphonic Band plays concert music for the rest of the year.

They will learn some basic theory, history, and performance practices of music. Students will be expected to maintain a high level of musicianship on their instruments through the study of etudes, music, and scales. The students will participate in two concerts held during the year and graduation. Instruments need to be furnished by the student. Marching shoes, tuxedo shirts and a few other accessories must be purchased by the students.

Prerequisite: New students will need to audition for placement in the symphonic band. Current students continue with approval of the director.

There is a $40 materials fee for this course.

String Orchestra (1 credit)

This full-year course is open to students’ grades 8-12 that have at least two years of experience on a string orchestra instrument (Violin, viola, cello or string bass). Beginners with no previous experience will not be allowed to enroll.

The String Orchestra will perform at two concerts per school year and have various other performing opportunities as chosen by the director. Please contact Mr. James for details or to arrange an audition.

Prerequisite: New students will need to audition for placement in the string orchestra. Current students continue with approval of the director.

There is a $25 materials fee for this course.

Jazz Band (1 credit)

This course is open to all students (9-12) with acceptance into this course based on an audition process. The ensemble is made up of trumpets, trombones, saxophones, and rhythm section (guitar, piano, bass and a drum set). The band’s focus is rehearsing and performing various styles of jazz, swing, funk, rock, etc.

This course meets at 7 a.m. three mornings per week.

Prerequisite: Audition and approval of the director.

There is a $25 materials fee for this course.

Varsity Singers (grades 8-12 auditioned, 1 credit)

Students in grades 8-12 may audition for a position with the Varsity Singers. The course allows students the opportunity to perform a vast repertoire of music, including sacred, classical, jazz, barbershop, and contemporary styles. Sight reading and rhythm skills are incorporated into rehearsals as well as the importance of developing sound vocal technique.

Students are expected to increase their learning through participation in performances such as the Fine Arts Festivals, designated school social events, school liturgies, and a variety of opportunities in the local community.

There is a $25 materials fee for this course.

20th Century American Music (0.5 credit)

Honors Music Theory (1 credit)

11th and 12th grades only

The Honors Music Theory course will help students develop their ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. Students will achieve this goal by developing skills such as aural, sight-singing, written, composition, and analytical skills. These skills will be established through a variety of exercises including listening, performance, written, creative, and analytical exercises. Students will demonstrate their knowledge of music theory through performance, assessment, and composition.