Here at WHS, music education is a valued subject in the fine arts. Music education makes strong links with art, drama, history, heritage, culture, maths, science, language, and social skills. Students who take music as a course will be offered a wide variety of learning opportunities including music theory, music history, practical music, and composition.
Year 7 & 8
In year 7 and 8, all students take music for 13 weeks (in rotation with other options). The topics covered include: ukulele skills, sound arts, composition, nga taonga puoro, and music theory.
Year 9
In year 9, students may choose to take music as a half-year course (two terms). The topics covered include: intermediate music theory, contemporary musical genre study, composition, and music medias.
Year 10
In year 10, students may choose to take music as a full year course. The topics covered include: intermediate music theory, music history, practical projects, live sound, and Level 1 NCEA composition.
NCEA Music
In years 11 through 13, students may choose to take music as a full year, NCEA course. Course endorsement is available in this subject. The achievement standard topics include: group performance, solo performance, composition, aural and music theory skills, and comparing a variety of musical works.
Co-Curriculars
Co-curricular activities also play an important part in the music culture here at the school. Co-curricular activities are not auditioned; however a strong commitment to the ensemble is required of all members.
Choir:
Choir is offered to students at all levels:
Year 7 - 9 have the option of joining the junior choir (directed by Sarah McNabb)
Years 10 - 13 girls can be a part of Canto Isola, the senior girl’s choir (directed by Sarah McNabb)
Years 10 – 13 boys can join Acapellica, the senior boy’s acapella choir (directed by Pat Urlich)
Jazz Ensemble:
Beginning in the 2011 school year, students of all levels will have the option of joining a jazz ensemble. More information will be available on this in the future.
