Students will further develop their musical skills through exceptional instruction, music retreats, guest clinicians, and by participating in the Alberta International Music Festival. Music is an academic option which requires the students to maintain a regular practice schedule and attend weekly rehearsals. The music instructors at EM High will focus on the following skills:

• Theory 
• Ear Training 
• Rhythmic studies 
• Team work
• Instrument technique

Students in the Music Program at EM High will also experience further enrichment by having the opportunity to travel for educational purposes. Students have the opportunity to participate in festivals throughout North America and internationally.

Band 10 (5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Band 9 or Teacher Recommendation

Band 10 expands upon the technical and musical skills acquired in Band 9. Technical facility, rhythm, tone and sight-reading are a major focus as is quality band repertoire. Students will also develop team skills as they work through the process of developing an appreciation for this art form.

Band 20  (5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Band 10

Students in Band 20 demonstrate technical and musical skills as well as musical literacy that are fluent and confident. A well-developed understanding of large ensemble performance is a major focus.

Band 30 (5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Band 20

Band 30 students demonstrate expertise on their instrument along with considerable theoretical knowledge and ensemble skills. Leadership within ensembles is a focus and expectation.

Concert Band 15  (5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Band 9 or Teacher Recommendation 

Content:  All students registered for Band 10 are automatically registered for this course.  This is the large ensemble component of the grade 10 band program and requires participation in the   Concert Band or Wind Ensemble, as well as the Symphonic Band.  Development of performance skills is the major focus.

Concert Band 25  (5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Concert Band 15

All students registered for Band 20 are automatically registered for this course. This is the large ensemble component of the grade 11 band program and requires participation in the Concert Band or Wind Ensemble, as well as the Symphonic Band. Development of performance skills is the major focus.

Concert Band 35 (5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Concert Band 25

All students registered for Band 30 are automatically registered for this course. This is the large ensemble component of the grade 12 band program and requires participation in the Concert Band or Wind Ensemble, as well as the Symphonic Band. Development of performance skills is the major focus.

Jazz Studies 15 (3 - 5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Enrolled in or completed Band or Vocal 10

Jazz Studies 15 is an introduction to jazz improvisation, composition and small ensemble performance with a focus on directed listening. 3 or 5 credits are awarded for Chamber Music 15, depending on the level of study of the student. This is an individualized course with some elective content.

Jazz Studies 25 (3 - 5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Jazz Studies 15 and enrolled in or completed Band or Vocal 20

Jazz Studies 25 is a continuation of the study of jazz improvisation, composition and small ensemble performance with a focus on directed listening. 3 or 5 credits are awarded for Chamber Music 25, depending on the level of study of the student. This is an individualized course with some elective content.

Jazz Studies 35 (3 - 5 credits)

Prerequisite Recommendation: Jazz Studies 25 and enrolled in or completed Band or Vocal 30

Jazz Studies 35 is a continuation of the study of jazz improvisation, composition and small ensemble performance with a focus on directed listening. 3 or 5 credits are awarded for Chamber Music 35, depending on the level of study of the student. This is an individualized course with some elective content.