Music
TCIS has a dynamic and creative program where all are encouraged to sing, perform, compose and explore their passion for Music. An emphasis is placed on excellence and the creation of good music, through proven teaching methods. The Orff and Kodaly approaches are integral to the PYP Music program and are extended in various forms to the Middle Years, Diploma, and Ensemble Programmes.
Philosophy of Musical Education
Students are invited on a journey of self-discovering and detailed learning from the earliest times to now. World Music and connections with contemporary composers are a major part of the program. Having experienced a wealth of music from different genres, students find an individual voice for their own creations. Being involved in the reading, listening and creating aspects of Music improves student thinking and exemplifies the IB Learner Profile for a Balanced, Open-Minded and Reflective approach to learning in all other subject areas.
With the teaching of composition linked to specific repertoire studied and then performed in our many ensembles, students gain a deeper understanding of Music and its building blocks. Understanding music means to understand its context and how the composer used certain elements to create a piece. Students at TCIS learn and practice all the skills relating to rhythm, melody and harmony in order to fully develop as musicians. This application of knowledge is key to performing well in Music, known as transfer skills: the ability to take and create meaning from purposefully linked learning opportunities.
In all disciplines of learning, we observe the past and develop new ideas from established models. This is the same in Music. In studying Music through the lens of inquiry, students find an original voice.
Ensemble Opportunities Program
TCIS offers the following in Music Instruction before and after school. Our Ensemble Program rests outside the normal school day to bring in all levels of musicians and to create opportunities for excellence:
- 9-12 Concert Band
- 9-12 Strings Ensemble
- 9-12 Orchestra
- 9-12 Choral Ensemble
- 6-12 Percussion Ensemble
- 6-12 Jazz Band
- 6-8 Concert Band
- 6-8 Strings Ensemble
- 6-8 Choral Ensemble
Our ensemble philosophy stands on the goal of creating good music that impacts the students as learners and musicians. Students are presented with a wide range of repertoire and are extended in their technique, tone and understanding of musical conventions. Only through the transfer of knowledge and practice do students understand the power of performance.
Collaborative Learning & Performances
KAIAC and APAC ensemble festivals are a large component of our program as well as combining for full orchestra at our yearly concerts. Ensemble managers plan and integrate repertoire into the classroom for greater learning connections and opportunities for skill transfer. IB Diploma students who choose the ‘Group Performance’ option can work with our ensembles inside the classroom program to be successful. The ensembles also form an important role in performing student compositions from the Diploma Music Programme.
TCIS Music Department is always building a program in conjunction with professional partners in the local community. TCIS hosts master-classes or music lectures for surrounding schools as well as performing in local festivals. By sharing our Music the learning of all is enriched and our students go on to prestigious tertiary education as balanced and highly proficient musicians.
Musical expression by music senior during DP Year 2 recital
(Tender Surrender by Steve Vai, performed by Ryan Synn)
Private Instrumental Lessons for:
Flute, Violin, Guitar, Drums, Percussion, Cello, Trumpet, Saxophone, Clarinet, Piano, Voice
TCIS with the APAC Choir 2018, at TCIS, Daejeon