Each class level focuses on developing it's own set of skills, knowledge, and musical ability. Since each class builds upon the next, it is important to know all of the skills in one level before moving on to the next!
Our teachers teach toward these skill levels, based roughly on Washington State Music Teachers Association standards. Tests on subjects are incorporated into class time throughout the year. At the end of the school year, you will receive a report detailing the skills you've mastered & identifying tough spots for continued growth.
Our desire is to see you take steps toward getting closer to your goals. Please take some time to review the list and set goals for your future here at HSS and beyond. Daily practice and attentive attitudes will help you in your musical endeavors.
Note names:
Finger patterns:
Posture:
Rhythm:
Scales and arpeggios (say key signature):
Written theory:
Sight reading: Play example using WSMTA guidelines
Listening:
Performance:
Beginning students who have passed Beginner A
Skills taught and required to promote to Intermediate A:
Note names:
Finger patterns:
Posture:
Rhythm: Clap ¼, ½ , dotted ½ , dotted ¼, dotted 1/8, whole notes and rests
Scales and arpeggios (say key signature):
Written theory:
Sight reading:
Listening:
Performance:
Combination class for beginning students with prior musical experience who can read musical notation. Students will be selected for this class during HSS Camp by instructor invitation only.
Skills Needed to advance to ‘Intermediate A’ from ‘Beginner X’:
Students who have completed ‘Beginner A’ and ‘Beginner B’; or ‘Beginner X’ (previously titled ‘Beginner A/B’)
Skills taught and required to promote to 'Intermediate B':
Note names:
Finger patterns:
Posture/Bowing:
Rhythm:
Scales and arpeggios (say key signature):
Written theory:
Sight reading:
Listening:
Performance:
Students who have passed 'Intermediate A'.
Skills taught and required to promote to 'Advanced':
Positions:
Bowings:
Dynamic markings: Follow dynamic markings in playing
Intonation:
Rhythm:
Scales and arpeggios – all 2 octaves (say key signature):
Written theory:
Sight reading:
Listening:
Performance:
TBD
Students in the 'Advanced' class are invited to audition for this community performance ensemble. Students should expect to have performances on a few weekends throughout the year. Students who are absent from two or more rehearsals during a quarter may be excused by the instructor from the upcoming performance.
To audition, students must prepare a 3-octave major scale and a 3-octave minor scale, perform clapping tests, and perform a piece from the Advanced repertoire, or another piece at an advanced level. In addition, he/she will be asked to sight read a short selection.
When possible a fiddle ensemble will be formed. Violin, guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass, cello and ukulele players are welcome! Violin students must be enrolled in Intermediate B or Advanced. Students may also join by a simple audition.
Updated August 2021