Students interested in a musical experience at Minnetonka High School are encouraged to audition for band, choir, or orchestra. These courses function as a curricular experience with opportunities for extra-curricular activities. All music classes are elective. Completion of two consecutive semesters of music fulfill the 1.0 Arts credit requirement.
Members of the MHS bands are eligible for a variety of co-curricular activities including marching band, pep band, jazz ensembles, and solo and ensemble participation. Members of MHS choirs are also eligible for a variety of co-curricular ensembles including Chamber Singers, Varsity Madrigal Singers, Donna Voce, quartets, etc. Members of MHS orchestras can be involved in Philharmonic Orchestra, chamber ensembles, pit orchestra and other solo and ensemble opportunities.
Course: #6632, S1
Course: #6634, S2
Grade(s) offered: Grade 10, Grade 11
Credits: 0.5 (per semester, full-year course)
Completion of both courses fulfills the Arts required credit
Prerequisite: Audition
This course is for students in 10th and 11th grade who are looking for an accelerated music experience, in preparation for the top ensemble – Symphony Orchestra. Students who previously took Orchestra 9 Honors will be prepared for this course.
Course: #6620, S1
Course: #6622, S2
Grade(s) offered: Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12
Credits: 0.5 (per semester, full-year course)
Completion of both courses fulfills the Arts required credit
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Orchestra 9 or Orchestra 9 Honors, or audition with instructor
Students who accept a position in Concert Orchestra commit to a full year of participation. Throughout the year, students will study a variety of repertoire covering several different musical styles.
Course: #6624, S1
Course: #6626, S2
Grade(s) offered: Grade 9
Credits: 0.5 (per semester, full-year course)
Completion of both courses fulfills the Arts required credit
Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of 8th grade orchestra or consent of instructor
Students who accept a position in Orchestra 9 commit to a full year of participation. Throughout the year, students will study a variety of repertoire covering several different musical styles.
Course: #6628, S1
Course: #6630, S2
Grade(s) offered: Grade 9, Grade 10
Credits: .5 (per semester)
Completion of both courses fulfills the Arts required credit
Prerequisite: Audition
Students who accept a position in Orchestra 9 Honors commit to a full year of participation. Throughout the year, students will study a variety of repertoire covering several different musical styles.
Course: #6616, S1
Course: #6618, S2
Grade(s) offered: Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12
Credits: 0.5 (per semester, full-year course)
Completion of both courses fulfills the Arts required credit
Prerequisites: Audition
Students who accept a position in Symphony Orchestra commit to a full year of participation. They will work on more advanced repertoire and continue to improve higher-level musical skills including, but not limited to, ear training, music theory, solo/small ensemble performances, and musical interpretation.
Minnetonka Public Schools adheres to academic standards developed by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE).