Alverno Music Program: Be Bold, Be Heard
A key focus for Alverno Heights Academy is its music program. The benefits of music education have been proven time and again by decades of research, and they’re experienced every day by Alverno’sn teachers and students who actively engage and participate in music making.
Alverno Singers
This is a year-long course offered to current and aspiring singers, regardless of their previous choral experience. The curriculum explores basic vocal technique, music theory, and history as it relates to Blues, Jazz, Broadway Musical Theater, Gospel, Folk, Classical, Sacred and other genres. This exploration takes place on a solo, small group, and large group performance level, as well as lecture and extensive listening. In addition, students are expected to work individually and in small groups on a self-guided curriculum to explore areas of particular interest in further detail. This class meets two (2) mornings at zero period: Wednesday and Friday mornings 7:00 – 7:45 am. Student instrumentalists are encouraged to join and play on selected repertoire. The only requirement is a love of singing–nothing else!
Musical Theatre Vocal and Auditioning Techniques
Musical Theatre Class is an exploration of American Musical Theatre Repertoire. Students will prepare and present Ensemble Production Musical Numbers at AHA’s Fall and Spring Concerts. Additionally, we will explore vocal and auditioning techniques for students interested in auditioning solos for Alverno’s Spring Musical and Community Musical Theatre Productions. These vocal and auditioning techniques are integral to their advancement and growth as performers. The Music Theatre Class meets Tuesday mornings during zero period (7:00 – 7:45 am) in the Villa Upstairs Music Room.
Instrumental Ensemble
Students who play an instrument will be given musical coaching and paired with either a duet partner, trio, quartet or small group ensemble. Repertoire will be chosen based on musical level and feature varied styles. All types of instruments and level of training are welcomed– beginning through advanced. There are performance opportunities through Alverno’s school concerts, masses and liturgies, as well as community events. AHA will be exploring some WORLD MUSIC this year! Come check out really cool instruments. No music reading is necessary to begin. Each instrumental student receives a 30 minute private lesson every other week throughout each semester, scheduled at the student’s availability.
Alverno Heights Academy, 200 North Michillinda Avenue, Sierra Madre, (626) 355-3463 or visit www.alvernoheightsacademy.org.
About Alverno Heights Academy
Alverno Heights Academy is an all-girls, independent, progressive Catholic, college preparatory school dedicated to its mission of empowering each young woman to be exactly the person she wants to be. Located on the property of the former Barlow Estate in Sierra Madre, California, Alverno Heights Academy was founded in 1960 by the Sisters of St. Francis who sought to create an environment in the San Gabriel Valley where young women could become informed and knowledgeable persons. Later renamed Alverno High School and sponsored by the Immaculate Heart Community, Alverno’s program—academic, spiritual, aesthetic, social, and physical—has been shaped by the staff, trustees, and students. As Alverno Heights Academy once again, the school remains committed to its mission by encouraging each of their young women to be who they imagine. For more information about Alverno Heights Academy, please visit www.alvernoheightsacademy.org.