Do you enjoy making music but have a limited background in music theory? In this class, you begin with the concepts of pitch and rhythm and how they are notated before moving on to topics including scales, keys, intervals, and basic harmony. Musical concepts are explored in the context of music appreciation and performance, and you are encouraged to relate the skills and techniques to practical musical studies. Successful completion of this course is required for Advanced Music Theory unless an exception is granted.

Optional Second Elective as Pass/Fail: The typical course load is six classes. In the 8-9 division, students may opt to take a second elective in (visual arts, performing arts, or computer science) in lieu of a study hall. This is a good option for students who are exceptionally organized and tend to manage their time well; it is not a good option for students with busy extracurricular schedules or who struggle with time management and organization. The seventh class does not count as a graduation requirement. It will not appear on students’ transcripts, and it must be taken as Pass/Fail.