Alright, so you've signed up for the music program here at Markham District. Now what? Is this class going to be like every other class - your math, science and English...NO WAY! The music department is special, because we're here to help you learn to love and appreciate music by building a sense of family within the department. Right now, there are about 700 students in the music program [that's over one third of all the kids at school!] We've got 5 teachers, and many different ensembles to choose from. We're involved in over 100 performances, festivals and concerts each year! On top of that, we've got an awesome Music Council that's there just to make your year in music better.
Music Council at the Grade 9 Retreat
You might be thinking...Oh my goodness, there's so much stuff going on...how am I ever going to fit in? Well, don't worry...just keep on reading, and we'll give you a glimpse of what life in MARKHAM MUSIC as a grade 9 is really like.
So, now that you know a bit about the department you're stepping into, you might be wondering...okay, so what can I do in the department? Well, the Grade 9s are special in the way that they have a whole bunch of events that are just for them including the annual Grade 9 Music Retreat, where just the Grade 9s get away from school for 2 days to spend quality time with other Grade 9 music students. This year, grade nines had the opportunity to see a concert by the band entitled Cadence.
There are 3 different options you have when you enter into Grade 9 music.
Beginning music is a course for students who want to learn a totally new instrument. By December, you'll be re-integrated into the regular Grade 9 Music program.
Instrumental music is for those who've taken music in grades 7 and/or 8. You'll be able to get better at whichever instrument you play, and you'll be a part of one of the two Grade 9 bands!
Grade 9 Band at the Grade 9 Retreat
Vocal music is an exciting class for anyone who is interested in singing. You don't need to be an experienced singer to join, and you'll get to perform in our concerts just like the instrumentalists.
To start off, there are 3 ensembles you can be in that are purely for Grade 9s – Grade 9 Band. Opus One [Jazz Band], and Washington Tour Band. The Grade 9 Band is conducted by Mr. Jull. Opus One is an amazing group of auditioned performers that fit into the traditional jazz band instrumentation (so that's saxes, trumpets, trombones and rhythm). The Jr. Vocal class also competes in festivals throughout the year and performs in our two annual concerts. For more about Washington Tour Band, read on.
Mr. Ross Jull is the instrumental music coordinator for the Grade 9 Music Program. He teaches the Grade 9 instrumental music classes and is the conductor of the Grade 9 Band.
Mrs. Dawn Caswell is the choral music coordinator for the Vocal Music Program. She teaches junior and senior vocal music classes and is the conductor of various school choirs, such as Sisters of Song.
All of the music teachers here at Markham District are very experienced and bring a great deal of enthusiasm to the music program. They certainly help to make Markham Music an enjoyable experience for all!
Last but not least, we've come to TRIPS! Alright, so most schools have a grad trip to Quebec or Ottawa. In Grade 9 Music, this is a 4-day "musical experience" to various cities in the US including Annapolis, Baltimore, Gettysburg... and of course, Washington D.C.! It happens every April, and there's usually around 80 music students going. Everyone always has a great time, and they come back with memories they'll never forget.
